If you've just received a package filled with custom printed pens and Frisbees, great. However, if that box sits on your desk or in a storage closet for a few weeks, what's the use? You have to actually give away your promotional products and promotional items to make them worth the money! But where? And when? Sometimes, it's simply not appropriate to hand out promotional products, but here are a few ideas for good places and occasions to distribute your items.

* At the Laundromat: Many people lease business cards on the Laundromat bulletin board--why not drop a few pens or pencils on the table? If possible, get permission from the owner first, but don't be shy. People will pick up these items to use or stash in their pockets while they're waiting for the spin cycle.

* At Conventions and Trade Shows: Even if you didn't spring for a booth or table, you can still attend conventions and trade shows, often for a very inexpensive price. There, feel free to hand out your promotional products to people who may be able to use your services. Be careful to note when and where this is not allowed, but most events have no restrictions--these are places meant for the exchange of ideas! Think outside of the box as well. If you run a business that does automobile detailing and custom paint jobs, you can go to car shows, but you can also attend a business convention. After all, most businesses have a company car with their logo painted on it.

* To your Typical Clients: If you have some really nice promotional products, keep a few on your desk at all times to hand out to new clients and clients that have been with you for some time. While you may think that you don't have to remind them to call you for business, they may very well lose your number. Long-time clients also often pass on promotional products to friends and family members, increasing the effect of your items.

* On Business Trips: Actually, you should take promotional products and business gifts with you whenever you travel. You never know who you'll meet. Maybe the person next to you on the airplane mentions that his back hurts. If you're a masseuse, you can pull out a promotional pen and business card so he can call for an appointment next time he's in town!

There are, however, a few instances when promotional products and promotional items simply aren't necessary or even acceptable. Unless you are the host (and even then proceed with caution), it's a bad idea to continually pitch your company at parties and social functions. If someone asks you about it, by all means, pull out a few items that you keep in your pocket, but in general, you're at a party to have fun, not to work! Also be aware when you might be stepping on the toes of others in your industry. Handing out promotional products at a convention for your roofing business is great, but don't stand right in front of a booth for a business that does the same--they paid to be there! In general, it simply comes down to common sense. When possible and tasteful, hand out your advertising or marketing products to increase sales.

For additional information on marketing promotional products, promotional items and advertising 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.