If my business ever takes off, I’d definitely consider investing in promotional products to get my company name out there. It’s so easy to invest $135 in 500 pens that bear my company’s ninfo, and then mail them with all customer orders, pass them out at craft markets, use them and “forgetfully” leave them behind in banks, post offices, grocery stores, hair salons, nail salons, restaurants. I’d get my name out there pretty well if I did that.
I’d say half the pens in our house came from companies through which I placed an order. My fabric companies in particular are GREAT about sending along a freebie – whether it’s a pen, a mini sewing set, or a small notepad of paper. Another great option for a reasonable price – 300 magnetic 2008 calendars for about $105. Computer mousepads are a bit more expense – $85 for only 100 mousepads, but since the business is done mainly online, it makes sense to have your company info resting next to the very thing customers use to place their orders.
I’ll have to wait a while before I consider investing in promo items, but I think my mom should consider it for her tea business.
As a marketing professional, I highly discourage your ordering calendars – they have about a 2 month shelf life…Who wants a calendar past Janaury? But pens? You can keep those for ages! Also (I go to trade shows and purchase promo materials) I would recommend any kind of cup…from the $0,50 stadium cups to nice thermal coffee mugs.