So, how do we help our customers narrow down a product search with thousands of options out there? Do we just suggest all the newest products out there for Q1? No. Do we give the same options that EVERY trade show exhibitor is going to be handing out? Absolutely not.

Our goal is to make sure we are providing promotional product ideas that are right for our customers and align with their marketing initiatives at every show. 

Step 1: Understand the industry and company’s goals. 

The very first step in our product selection for our customers is to truly understand the intent of the show and exactly what our customer is trying to accomplish. Is their goal to get their name out there to anyone attending? Is the team there to touch base with their current clients and deepen the relationships? Is the main goal to gain more sales?

Asking these questions helps our product specialists gauge the type of item that may be appropriate. For instance, you are not going to spend $5-$7 on a giveaway item if you are just trying to get your name out there. You are going to want to focus on a lower cost item that you can buy a higher quantity in that is still a quality giveaway. The worst thing in the world to hear from our clients is that they noticed that many of their giveaways ended up in the trash can at the show. An item similar to the Rubber Tape Measure Keychain is a perfect item for this situation. It is low cost, but still a very useful item for potential leads. 

Step 2: Identify the audience.

The next step in choosing the right promotional item to bring with you to a show is identifying your audience. At every trade show, it is common to meet new people and potential business; however you can’t forget about your current customers. We always suggest bringing a few promotional product options with you to a show. The main reason is to make sure you can give your customers a logo’d item that is valuable. You don't want to give them an inexpensive giveaway and send them on their way. You want to make sure they leave feeling appreciated and excited to continue to work with you. You know the saying… A happy wife is a happy life. That is the same in business! Giving current customers a 3D embroidered cap or Tactical Ultra Bright Cree LED Flashlight, shows your customers you value them. 

Step 3: Think about the logistics. 

The last thing we ask our clients is all about logistics. How are these items getting to the show? Are you packing the items with the booth material that is being delivered to the convention center? Do you have to pack the items in your luggage? This is an extremely important question, because we never want to make the fun part of the show become the biggest pain. Tradeshow giveaways are fun to choose and pass out during shows. We don't want our customers having extra stress over the logistics of these items. Knowing this ahead of time will allow us to give options that will easily get to the show. If you are packing the promotional products with you or your shipping space is tight, consider an item that is small like the Credit Card Shape Bottle Opener. A product every attendee can bring home from the show and is super light-weight and thin to pack!

No matter what item you choose to hand out at your next tradeshow, following these 3 steps will help you identify your goal for the show, choose the perfect promotional item, and get your brand in the hands of the right people.

Check out How to Wear Your Brand at Your Next Trade Show.