With hundreds of thousands of options available in promotional products, it can be difficult choosing an item. And even if you narrow it down to a couple items, how do you choose the right product with confidence?

Use these 3 tips to help you make the right pick with confidence:

1. Match the product to your target audience.

If the products are intended for a specific group, you’ll want something specialized for their needs. For example, if your sponsoring a 5K run or putting on an employee health fair, a logoed light-up safety shoe clip would be a hit. It’s lightweight and easily attaches to the heel of most running shoes. Perfect for running, walking, biking and other outdoor activities.

Use proven statistics to help find the item that matches your audience. The Global Advertising Specialties 2016 study found women are more likely to keep a branded pen, while men are more likely to hang onto a branded USB. Check out the stats:

●      Who’s most likely to own a branded pen? Women, 54%

●      Who’s most likely to own branded USB? Men, 50%

●      Who’s most likely to own a branded T-shirt? Ages 18-34, 56%

2. Coordinate the product with the event or marketing tactic.

Just like some products fit a certain goal better than others, the same holds true for tactics. The right promotional product aligned with the right tactic can be a surefire hit!

Think about your overall goal. Do you want your message to spread or to be something the same person will look at every day? Items like pens and pencils get passed around quite often, while an office accessory would be seen by your customer several days a week. Consider which type of advertising you are hoping to do and be sure your item goes along with your goals.

Check out what promotional products best suit these events:

●      Trade Shows. Promotional items at trade shows can help your company gain exposure and leads toward new sales. Bags, such as a reusable mini tote, are very effective for trade shows as customers will use them at the trade show and several times after.

●      Customer Events. Satisfied customers can be your No. 1 advocate. Shower them with free stuff they will wear, such as polo shirts and jackets, and let them help promote your company.

●      Employee Events. Along with satisfied customers, you also want your employees to be top advocates. Hot items for employees are often coolers, speakers, water bottles and other top-quality items.

●      Community/PR Events. Show your support for your community, an event or organization through donated promotional items that organizers can give away. Provide event T-shirts with your brand logo and message, or give away a cooler filled with other branded items.

3. Use the experts.

That’s what they are there for! Share your overall goal, target audience and how you plan to use promotional products with your product representative as you begin selecting products. A promotional company should have customer representatives who are skilled in providing guidance and new ideas for product selection. Let them help you select the right product with confidence.

Studio Eleven provides high quality and affordable promotional products and corporate apparel. With a vast selection of 900,000+ products, experienced promotional product specialists and customer care representatives work with you to find the products that best fit your company, your consumers and your employees.