The Free Dictionary defines swag as promotional items, especially when given for free. Head to any trade show and you’ll see marketing at its best. Free swag not only makes current clients happy, but it can attract new clients simply by displaying your name prominently. Pens used to be the go-to swag item for companies around the world but no more. Ditch the boring swag, and hand out items that are more useful to your current and potential clients.
1.Earbuds
Everyone can use an extra set of earbuds. It’s not unusual for people to lose their set of headphones or carry a spare pair in each bag. Emblazon your company’s name or logo on the buds themselves and anywhere else there is room. Your logo has the potential to be seen by hundreds of people each day.
2.Phone Amplifier
It doesn’t make sense to spend your money on amplifiers for every phone out there, but you can hand out amplifiers for the most popular phones of the moment. An iPhone amplifier, for example, will be used in the office, at home and even at the gym. Think of all of the people that will see your logo simply because you placed it on such a useful item.
3.Reusable Bags
Think “not cheap” if you go the reusable bag route. Don’t hand out bags that are going to fall apart after one use. If you spend a couple of extra bucks on sturdy bags, they will last longer, and your name will be in the public eye for months. If you decide to hand out reusable shopping bags, go the extra mile and make sure they are made of organic or recycled materials.
4.Fleece Blankets
Fleece blankets are easy to embroider with your logo, and even easier to use for your clients. These blankets are simple to roll up and toss in a trunk or bag. Don’t be stingy when it comes to the size of the blanket. No one will use a fleece blanket that’s the size of a wash cloth. Think at least 5 feet by 5 feet if you’re going to give clients a fleece. Another good tip is to make sure that the blanket is the same color as the main color in your logo.
5.Water Bottles
The best water bottles today are made from aluminum, not plastic. Don’t go cheap if you want the bottles you hand out to be used. Make sure the bottle is made from aluminum, the cap is spill-proof, and there is some sort of hole or loop that makes it easy to attach the bottle to a clip. The more functional your bottle, the more likely it is to be used frequently.
6.Flashdrives
Flashdrives are useful to virtually everyone. Business person or student, having a flashdrive in the pocket is worth its weight in gold. Load flashdrives with your company’s contact information, services offered and products sold. Just be sure to leave extra space on the drives so that they are actually useful to the people that receive them.
Swag is a necessary evil for any business. Choose the right swag, and your name is out there for years. Choose the wrong swag, and you might as well have washed your money down the drain.
Photo credit: thatcanadiangirl
