Look on your desk or inside your desk drawers. Do you have a pen with a logo printed on it? How about a mouse pad, microfiber cloth, sticky notes or a t-shirt? Promotional products are everywhere, and we usually have at least one within easy reach. Although many business owners have reservations to using promotional products, the truth is: they work.

Promotional products are increasing in popularity because they’re flexible, inexpensive, tangible and long lasting. Promotional products should be used in conjunction with your existing marketing strategy, and they can help to improve your brand and reputation when used correctly. Just like with any other marketing strategy, it’s important that you do your research before you buy all of the promotional products you can find.

Reasons why promotional products are effective

They provide extended brand exposure: Traditional advertising comes and goes – one day, your ad will be online or in the newspaper, and the next day it’s gone. Promotional products, on the other hand, last longer than traditional advertisements. People tend to hang on to promotional products longer, giving your brand more exposure. A tote bag with your logo on it will likely get seen more than a newspaper ad, and people will get more value and use out of the tote bag.

They allow you to get creative: There are thousands of different promotional products available, so you have the ability to get creative about your strategy. Don’t think that you have to settle for pens and notepads. When you buy promotional products, buy items that you think your audience will value. Whether it’s microfiber cloths, coffee mugs or even crazy hats, don’t be afraid to buy out-of-the-box items that you think will work with your overall marketing strategy.

They create lasting impressions: People keep promotional products longer than flyers, cards and other marketing items, and this usually leads to people remembering your business. Regardless of whether someone chooses to do business with you after receiving a promotional product from you, it’s important to understand that seeing your logo every day will help them remember you. And if they do ever need your service in the future, you’ll be one of the first people they think of.

Promotional products are effective because they are tangible items that leave lasting impressions in the minds of recipients. Promotional products have proven time and time again to be one of the most effective media available to advertisers, and they work great for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re a small business looking to get your name out in the community or a large business looking to do more with your marketing, promotional products are a great way to increase exposure to your business.