Ask the Expert
10 Tips To Consider Before Buying
TIP #1
Use a company with the experience to know what kind of products will work for your target audience and, most importantly, will work with your budget.
TIP #2
Make sure you can get a live person that answers the phone, preferably without going through a maze of options. When you need something, you need to talk to someone. Test out your prospective company with a phone call and see how quickly they respond.
TIP #3
Sample before you buy. Promotional product consultants should not charge for samples shipped to you via UPS ground. This way you can see what you are buying so there are no surprises after the product arrives.
TIP #4
Why spend money on advertising that does not reach your target audience? Promotional products need to fit your audience. You need to feel comfortable in your product options.
TIP #5
There are thousands of suppliers to choose from, however not all products can be shipped when you need them. Experienced promotional product consultants know what products will meet your timing deadlines, or can work with production to get them rushed out the door.
TIP #6
Some promotional products can increase your advertising effectiveness and some are historically not effective. Just because you can put a logo on it doesn’t mean it will work. Only experienced promotional product consultants can give you the advice you need.
TIP #7
Creative design services. Whether your design has been created by a graphic artist or is only a pencil sketch on a napkin, your promotional products consultant should be able to convert your design into the art that is appropriate for the product you select.
TIP #8
Virtual samples are a great way to sample a product and to quickly see your logo/design on that product. When you have a deadline, virtual samples can same time and money. Promotional product consultants should understand your urgency and suggest how to quickly get your products in your hands.
TIP #9
Expect a return on your investment. Knowledgeable Promotional Product Consultants can suggest the perfect product to target your intended market. As reported in The Counselor Magazine, December 2008, your cost per impression for a calendar is $.003 while the cost per impression for a half page newspaper ad is $.019 per impression. Let knowledge/experience save you money.
TIP #10
Relationships are key in any field and relationships take time to build. Years of experience build favorable pricing structures for promotional product consultants. Trust experience of 10 years or greater to get you the best deal. If you’re going to advertise with a promotional product, shouldn’t it be effective?
My experience = Your effective promotional product purchase
Call me, Sue Powder. TOLL FREE 866.842.8441. I’d be happy to put my 20 years of service and experience to work for you.
