As competition on the internet increases it becomes more and more difficult to set your business apart from all the others. One particular marketing technique that has been proven to work but isn’t made the most of by some companies is promotional products.

Promotional products are a very simple idea; they can be straightforward household products or other everyday items that have been printed with your company logo, name or message to your customers. Ask anyone about promotional products and the first items that usually spring to mind are pens, mouse mats and T-shirts. However there is a huge range of items available on the market these days and, whatever the size of your company or your budget, you are sure to find something that will fit in with your requirements.

Most businesses now have websites; along with printing your logo on an item to be used in your promotion you should always include your website address. Many people prefer to shop over the internet, and even if they don’t actually buy online and prefer to purchase from the high street, they often will at least take a look at the website before they go.

Before deciding on any promotional items carefully consider your clientele. For example, if you run a motor vehicle company then what sort of items might attract customers? Perhaps a car key chain or small tool set, a torch or air freshener. There are heaps of simple and yet very effective ideas out there so ensure you purchase products that fit in with your client base if you want to succeed.

People often need some kind of motivation to get them to spend money. A way you could facilitate this is by offering them a deal if they buy 2 items instead of just the one they intended. This means they get 2 items at a discount price, plus you could throw in a promotional product too. If you have an online book store they could get 2 books at low prices and a free leather bookmark, if the bookmark is attractive and good quality then many people will be tempted to spend that little bit more.

Don’t forget your loyal customers, it can pay to keep in touch with them and reward them in some way. Customers who buy regularly from you, or consistently buy expensive items, could be rewarded by a quality promotional gift sent along with their order as a small thank you for their loyalty.

This could also be extended to your business associates as a thank you for a successful working relationship, even your staff will appreciate a gift to say thanks for their loyalty and commitment; they could be rewarded with a quality product if they get the highest sales that month for example. As you can see, promotional products can be used in many different ways and are a great way to build relationships with the people that matter to your business.

A winning formula to encourage people to sign up for your newsletter is to regularly organize a competition or lucky draw. If they win, you send them a promotional product printed with your logo and website address. Most people will be happy to take a few minutes to sign up as we all love something for free. If you choose a quality promotional product that is related to the service you provide, or products you sell, then you also aim it at your target audience.

There is a broad range of promotional gifts available to you as a business. Any item that is practical, functional, attractive or quirky is going to be a hit with your customers. Whether you choose simple items like pens, mugs, key rings or something more exclusive such as leather bags, designer brand clothes, luggage or elegant glassware, they all have their advantages.

Any item with a practical use has immediate appeal for promotional purposes, promotional fridge magnets (http://www.promotionproducts.com.au/galleries/Promotional-Giveaways/Promotional-Fridge-Magnets/ ) are such an item as people stick them to their fridge and they can be there for years! Years of free advertising as your message is conveyed to everyone who passes through.