The joy of giving, the pleasure of receiving: the nightmare of promotional items

Attending a great evening is good. Leaving with a nice little gift is even better. But leaving with a useless and silly gift ruins everything. That’s the nightmare of promotional items!

A trade fair, an event, a party… There’s no question of letting guests, colleagues or prospects leave without a gift that will serve as both a souvenir and a token of appreciation, helping to build loyalty. But with so many promotional items to choose from, which one should you pick?

Avoid stress balls, for example, as simply offering them highlights the fact that stress is present. Furthermore, unless medically advised, compulsively squeezing soft plastic has never relaxed anyone.

Avoid pretty notebooks, which may seem very useful but have become all too common. Bear in mind that the unfortunate recipient already has at least fifty of them, which they will never fill up unless they copy the telephone directory three times.

Avoid USB sticks, which have become such an insignificant product that, even if richly decorated, they are unlikely to leave the user with lasting fondness and gratitude. At best, they will be forgotten forever at the bottom of a drawer.

So what rules should you follow to make sure you don’t make (too many) mistakes?

Think symbolically: does your company want to be seen as innovative and adventurous? The whole world of travel is open to you, from elegant luggage to compasses and passport holders! Is your brand rooted in tradition and does it inspire confidence? Explore the world of fine wine and culinary delights. Is your brand more tech-savvy and in tune with the times? Look out for THE quirky or trendy product… but avoid fidget spinners unless you want to go vintage!

Think practical and playful: of course, it’s always better to choose an item that will be used – preferably on a daily basis – but don’t forget the light-heartedness that makes people smile and the tongue-in-cheek approach that shows you don’t take yourself too seriously. If it’s a phone holder, choose a fun shape; if it’s a bag or an umbrella, come up with an unexpected slogan or visual that will make it stand out.

Ride the wave of trends… while knowing that nothing goes out of style faster than fashion. Today, with the environment being a major global issue, soft, nature-friendly and ultimately recyclable items will be more appreciated. From jute tote bags to seed packets, gardening kits and cork-covered pens, there is no shortage of choices when it comes to offering promotional items that discreetly reflect your ethical and ecological values.

Finally, remember that your promotional item ultimately has two objectives: to please the recipient and to ensure that they remember you. Keep it simple and consistent with your brand and its values.

Not just any promotional items, but the right ones!