Questions to ask before creating trade show promotional products

Trade shows are a prime opportunity for businesses to advertise themselves to potential customers. There's a steady flow of attendees just waiting to be pitched your product or service, and you can gain valuable contacts through networking. Trade shows are also the perfect forum for promotional products. In fact, it could be argued that no trade show exhibition is complete without them. They could be as simple as a tote bag or more advanced like a USB drive. Promotional products do a great job at marketing the businesses, but like most things in business advertising, it takes planning to achieve the best results. Asking yourself these questions about a product is the first step to crafting the best one.

Does it have use?
One of the most important parts of promotional products is functionality. The best way to market your business through products is by creating one that is in constant, or at least regular, use by the customer. This keeps the company, product and brand at the top of the consumer's mind, and every time they use it, they'll be reminded of your business. It only takes a little spark like that to spur a customer into action.

That being said, high-use items should be a priority in fashioning your promotional products. Pens are clearly a top product, because taking notes and signing up for lists at a trade show requires writing, which requires pens. Engraving your brand or name on writing tools is an effective way to accomplish company recognition. Coffee mugs, bags, mini-flashlights and clothing apparel also work.

Is it goofy or fun?
Trade show attendees appreciate promotional products that are a bit quirky. Innovative products also help a company stand out and increase its visibility. If you create something new or different, it will pique consumer interest and improve chances they'll share it with friends and family. Silly stuff like squishy balls and light-up jewelry will definitely attract attention.

Can it be used at the trade show?
Creating promotional items that can be used at the trade show itself can also provide a significant boost in marketing efforts. Travels mugs, pop can holders displaying a brand or logo, and bags that can be used to store brochures in are extremely useful to attendees. Similar promotional products also carry your advertising around the show and extend your reach from the booth.