How to ensure your promotional gifts hit the mark

If promotional gifts are to create and then maintain interest in a company’s brand, products or services, they need to be carefully selected in order to achieve maximum impact and effectiveness. As promotional gifts are generally bought in relatively large numbers, except for corporate gifts which tend to be purchased in smaller volumes, it is essential that all pertinent factors are taken into account before committing to an order. This does not just mean checking the proofs thoroughly to avoid any embarrassing typos, but making sure that the gift chosen is appropriate for the target market. Even the smallest production error or misjudgement could mean you are stuck with hundreds or even thousands of useless promotional gifts. The first step towards success is to understand what customers are looking for or what they expect from the promotional gifts they receive. The most popular promotional gifts, and therefore those most likely to be kept and regularly used, are those that are useful, of good quality, attractive, tasteful, convenient, unique, trendy and durable. It almost goes without saying that there is little point in giving away promotional gifts unless they bear your company name, logo or contact details. The location and exact message will depend partly on the available print area on the item and partly on the target audience. Promotional gifts bearing a subtle logo are generally better received than those overprinted with an in-your-face advertising slogan. In short, carrying out basic research and following these simple rules will help ensure that your next promotional gifts hit the mark spot on.