10 Small Business Promotional Items That Really Make a Difference

When you're a small business owner, you have to be creative with your marketing budget. Most businesses don't have the budget for huge marketing campaigns — and that's totally fine. Sometimes the best form of marketing is one that is free or low cost. Today we're going to show you 10 small business promotional items that can make a big difference in the success of your business.

Promotional items such as pens, mugs, and t-shirts are great because they can be used over and over again. Moreover they can help you to build a trustworthy brand or strengthen your existing one.

One study conducted by Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) found that 89% of people could recall the advertiser on a promotional product they had received in the past 24 months. 

Since it’s hard to narrow down the list of options, here are 10 small business promotional products that we think can make a big impact. Whether you're looking for some great marketing swag for a convention or just want to add some branded merchandise to your office, these 10 items are sure to make a lasting impression.

1. Customized T-shirts

Clothing items can be worn by your employees and help promote brand recognition, especially if they are worn in public places.

T-shirts are a tried and true promotional item that every business needs to have in their arsenal. The whole shirt can be customized with your brand's design, logo, or message.

Source: Facebook

2. Unique Mugs

Mugs are an excellent way to keep your brand front of mind with customers because they're used so often — but why not offer something that's a little different from the classic coffee mug? There are many options such as metallic mugs or even reusable glass coffee cups that feature your branding.

A branded mug is an excellent item that can be used by customers daily. It may also remain on their desk for all to see, which can boost your brand awareness. And because it's functional, people are more likely to use it. If you have a family-friendly business or perhaps you sell children's toys or clothes, themed mugs with cartoons on them will appeal to kids and adults alike.

Source: Unsplash

3. Customized Pens

Even though pens aren't typically viewed as exciting promotional items, there's something about writing with a custom pen.

Pens have been one of the top-selling types of promotional products for the past 15 years and make an excellent choice because they’re practically used by everyone.

Source: BrandSpirit

4. Bags

Bags are an excellent way to promote your brand because they’re extremely versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, such as shopping, carrying laptops, or bringing gym clothes.

Plus, bags are an eco-friendly promotional item because they can be reused over and over again — which is something that consumers are increasingly interested in.

Reusable bags are also a recent trend so they’re likely to be well received by customers.

Source: IndiaMart

5. Key Rings

Like pens, key rings are relatively inexpensive promotional items that are popular with businesses of all sizes. They're often given away at trade shows or roadshows to attract customers' attention. You can include QR codes on key rings so customers can easily access your website by scanning the code with their smartphones.

Key rings are also a useful way to promote your brand because they can be used on a daily basis and are typically kept for a long time.

Source: Montbleu.eu

6. Business Cards

A simple business card has the potential to get your name and contact information out to hundreds of people. Hand them out at networking events, when you make a sale, or even leave them in public places such as coffee shops where they’re sure to be found.

While business cards are typically used as a way to promote an individual, they can also be used to promote a business. For example, you could include a special offer or discount on the back of your business card that encourages people to use your services.

Source: Plastek Cards

7. Adhesive Notes

Adhesive notes come in handy, so whether you're handing them out at a tradeshow or leaving them on people's desks, they will be appreciated and used.

Adhesive notes are one of the most versatile promotional items because they can be used for so many different purposes. For example, you could use them as a way to promote your website by including a URL or QR code that people can scan. Or, you could include a special offer or discount that encourages people to use your services.

Source: Adco Marketing

8. Sticky Flags or Bookmarks

No matter what industry you are in, these are useful promotional items that won't break the bank.

To better appeal to your target audience, choose a sticky flag or bookmark that is specific to your industry. For example, if you are in the real estate industry, you could choose a house-shaped sticky flag. Or if you are in the financial industry, you could choose a money-themed bookmark.

Source: Miami Flyers

9. Magnetic Clip

Another item that just about everyone can use and that won't cost you a lot is a magnetic clip. Good for holding papers and memos, a magnetic clip is a great way to promote your brand because it can be used over and over again. Plus, it's a handy item that people will keep in their office or home, which means they'll see your brand name every time they use it. This will eventually improve brand recognition.

Source: The Ink Spot

10. Calendar Magnet

A calendar magnet is an inexpensive but useful promotional item that you can put together yourself easily by printing out a calendar and gluing it to a magnet.

You could use images that represent your brand, such as pictures of your products or services. Or, you could use images that are related to your industry or target market. Either way, a calendar magnet is a great way to promote your brand and keep your name top of mind all year long.

Source: Cmagnets.com

Final Thoughts

The best part of all of these items is that they are affordable and can help you get your name out there. These small business promotional ideas are proven to work and can help you get ahead in a cutthroat world. Whichever items you pick, they will help your business remain in the minds of others and make a positive impact on your success.