I had a great question from one of my twitter friends asking me to focus my blog today on which promo items work and which don’t?
Surprisingly, what most people don’t know is that the answer does NOT lie within the item itself. Let’s say you give the most UNIQUE or GRAND promo item out to a crowd blindly with no specific goals in mind, (and if it’s your wrong target market)…your sales might not increase because of it. Then the item and the promotion is unsuccessful and it doesn’t work for you.
On the other hand, if you give a simple $3.00 music download card creatively to the RIGHT prospect/client or create a call-to-action…then you notice an increase in sales because of it…then voila! You have a successful promotional item for your program!
So really can we judge what promo item works every time? Or what doesn’t? Or should we look at the goals/target market/program behind each item?
I’d say, a successful promotion would consist of a few different factors:
1.) What was the companies goal for giving out the items?
Ex) Give out micro-fiber cloths with business and contact information printed on it to create Brand awareness at a trade show. (Instead of handing out business cards)
2) Were the recipients of the item targeted? Or was it given or mailed to random people?
Ex) Through a direct mail program, targeted to previous customers to increase repeat business. Mail a “thank you” card with a music CD.
3)In what way did the company distribute the item?
Ex) A Branded envelope delivered by UPS to receive delivery confirmation. Also this insures the package stands out and it most likely will be opened immediately.
4) Was there a follow up involved after the item was received?
Ex) A Follow up call or e-mail assuring the recipient saw the item or got involved with the item. (This would be now be considered a “warm call” for prospective clients)
For more examples of SUCCESSFUL PROMOTIONS, or to get started on your personalized promotional program, please e-mail me at karen.silvers@promomarketingexpert.com 
