Any office will show a graveyard of promotional goods as you walk inside. Stress balls, magnets, plastic devices you cannot even name. Look closely, though. Right now, in every hand and at every workstation, is a pen bearing someone’s logo. For a reason—travel, borrowing, and, oh boy, do they get used—personalized pens for business are king.
The million-dollar question is, therefore, how you get those pens into people’s hands—the correct hands—so your brand leaves an imprint longer than the ink runs out? Though it’s not worthless, the spoiler alert is not only about pushing them in a bowl at a trade fair.
Let us deviate from the norm.
Know Your Audience—And Travel Where They Wander
Send your pens not on a wild goose hunt. Consider your ideal client. professors? Economists? Those that enjoy gym? See where they live and picture your ideal pen-wielder. Slides a handful to your preferred coffee establishment smiling and saying “These are for the counter.” Turn a box over to the neighborhood library. Freebies like pens are much sought after at libraries. Ask if you might leave a cup at a community center, a church, or even a doctor’s office. Things that make daily living better appeal to people. Free pen available at the pharma? Please, indeed.
Create Treasure Troves from Trade Shows
Trade events: the realm of goodies. A freebie is loved by all. But do not treat pens like confetti. Participate. Initiate a discussion, then offer your pen as a farewell gift or, better still, as a tool for someone to complete your contest application. People are less prone to toss things they use right away.
Still another advantage tip: Present the work at upscale level. Link every pen to a little notepad or maybe a witty card with a joke, quotation, or practical advice. They will utilize your pen and recall the twist you introduced.
Work with Other Companies; Teaming, Baby
Ever heard the comment “you scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours?” Local alliances are excellent. Lead generating events, seminars, or cross-promotional activities—work with companies that draw similar customers but aren’t rivals. A real estate agent with their welcome packet delivering your pen? That’s two brands in one hand.
Mailing Campaigns: Snail Mail that Stands Out
Who claims that people no longer open mail? Like sending a smile, throwing a pen in with your invoice, thank-you message, introduction letter, or holiday card will help. The surprising element really works magic. Consumers will value the extra, and pens are not trash mail—they are really handy.
