If there’s one thing every person has is a promotional item. Whether it’s a pen, reusable bag, or a tee shirt, you see brand logos on everything. Personally, I’m not big on being a walking advertisement and normally pass on taking them — however since being out at SXSW I have to say the tech brands know what’s up! Mixed in with all the usual branded merchandise I past on accepting, I thought I’d give a shout out to all the brands that are doing it right! Take note PR peeps, this is the stuff we actually want!
1. Portable phone chargers – Branded portable phone chargers are the new USB thumb drives. A lot of brands are doing it and I can’t get enough. All my friends want them so on the off chance I just want to use it for the day and unload it later, it won’t go to waste. And when I’m traveling, especially to a festival, my phone is always dying and I never pack enough. High five to Visa and Capital One for hooking it up this trip!
2. Make Your Own Tee – Props to the Samsung Lounge for drawing lines for their branded t-shirts! Using their phone you could download one of your pictures (or use one of their fun graphics), add copy or draw your own picture and have it pressed onto a tank or tee shirt. Their logo is in the bottom and not intrusive so you actually want to wear it!
3. Bluetooth Remote Shutter – Visa wins for most original promo gift. This one I’ve actually never seen! It’s a remote control bluetooth that connects to your Android or iOS so you can take your own selfies with a click of a button.
4. Double USB plug – These come in super handy if you need to charge multiple devices and especially travel in groups. I normally bring my own but forgot it this trip so thank you State Farm for hooking it up.
5. A Gift Card – At the New York Times Magazine Party, the publication gave out a 4-week All Digital Access card which was a nice touch. If you’re a brand throwing an event and want someone to try your product give them a worthy trail or an adequate gift card. For the most part, no one wants the percentage off or $20 off $100 type gift card. If you believe in your product, let people try it. (Uber gift cards also make great gifts).
6. Fun Mugs – Granted most people don’t need another mug, but if you’re going to do it, go the extra mile and make it fun! These “Cheers” mugs from OpenTable are a great design and make you want to take one to go.
7. Ear Buds – Somewhat over done, however it always pays off to have an extra headset (especially if you fly and or exercise a lot). Someone inevitably forgets them on a trip (or only packs their large set), so it’s handy to have a spare. This set from MSLGROUP is compact and wraps nicely to keep in your travel bag.
8. Windex Electronic Wipe & Go – Given this isn’t really a promotional item since Windex gave them out. However, it came in super handy, especially at a tech convention where everyone is glued to their phone. I always like to give credit to brands that participate in events that actually make sense for their brand. This was a great get compliments of the Mashable House at SXSW.
Do you have a promo item that makes you happy? Tweet me @prettyconnected and let me know!
xoLara