Getting A Promotional Gift

Everyone understands the rule of TANSTAAFL – There Ain’t No Such Thing As a Free Lunch. That axiom seems well on its way to being outdated, however, as corporate gifts (from the corporate level on down) are fast becoming a way of life in the business community. Gifting in the name of promoting one’s company is no novelty anymore; it’s all but expected. Want an appointment with our sales department? Coffee mugs and T-shirts are okay but a USB flash drive, complete with LED flashlight and corkscrew, would make a much bigger impression.

In-House or Otherwise

Such small gestures can add up to quite the enticement. In some industries – such as printing – it’s as easy as pie to crank out calendars, desk pads or post-it notes (all with the print shop’s contact info located in a convenient place). Other businesses can turn to the burgeoning world of promotional items for something that is appropriate and – hopefully – affordable. Clocks, pens, pocket knives, keychains, tote bags, tape measures, those are just a few of the thousands of items which can be made to bear a company logo.

The Thought that Counts

From the standpoint of the recipient, getting a promotional gift doesn’t necessarily make you beholden to the person or company that was so generous to you. The important thing to remember is that such things are purchased in bulk. The pangs of a guilty conscience can be secured in the “unnecessary” file. Simply enjoy the promo, and hope that more of them come in, as it is a sign that someone out there sees you as a viable business entity.

Those who issue the promotional items don’t see them the way a fisherman sees his wax worms. They don’t expect luggage tags, golf balls, tennis visors or anything else to land a big contract – the company’s expertise and proficiency will be required to make that happen. But promotional gifts do lay the seeds for future growth, as the recipient will be sure to keep an open mind (or even an appreciative one) toward those who have expressed such keen interest in establishing business relations with them.