Is it just me, or does every single business give away promotional pens and promotional mugs? While these items can be very cost-effective, they aren't the only inexpensive promotional products and promotional items out there. By choosing unusual promotional products, there is a much better chance that your company or organization will be remembered in the minds of the recipient. Remember, unusual promotional products and business gifts may cost a bit more, but you will have better results in sales!

Kits are a great product that you can use to show that you really care about your customers. These are larger, so may not be optimal if you plan to hand out products at a trade show. However, they make great promotional gifts for new clients and old clients alike! Care kits fall into two basic categories -- those you keep in your car and those that are used when you travel. A car care kit usually includes things like reflectors and a small tool kit, while travel care kits usually include things like thread/needles and a mirror.

Other great promotional products and promotional items that you don't see every day are yo-yos and Frisbees. These children's toys make great gifs, even if your business is for a product or service that has nothing to do with children. Many of your clients will have kids, and providing a toy will attract families. Your promotional product will also then have staying power, since children tend to save items they enjoy. A year from now, a parent may be cleaning, find your promotional product, and realize that they can use your services. Child's toys like inflatable beach balls, pinwheels, and anything that lights up are also unique and attractive ideas.

Never forget that the best promotional products and business gifts are usually the most functional ones. That's why printed pens work so well -- people actually take them home to use! Even if they are simply thrown in a desk drawer, pens are still a product that won't find their way to the garbage can, like most brochures and fliers will. If you want to be a bit more unique, however, you can instead try items like letter openers, stress balls, and mint containers.

Another approach is to opt for more expensive products such as corporate gifts, but instead of giving them away to everyone passing your convention booth, use a spinning wheel to determine winners. Often, unusual advertising items that are a bit more expensive will attract more people to your stand, where you can then give a short sales pitch. Items like hats and tote bags work well.

Remember, usual doesn't mean impractical. You can still purchase items that are interesting, but aren't run of the mill. Take time and care when choosing promotional products -- the best items, complete with your name, logo, and contact information, can truly help you to market you business and raise sales.

For additional information on advertising promotional products, promotional items and marketing business gifts check out the leading promotional gift suppliers online today!

About the Author

Gareth Parkin is the co-founder of Ideasbynet, the UK's leading online promotional products and promotional items company based in the north of England. Established in 2001, he has taken the UK gift market by storm by the application of modern business thinking.