Trade show giveaways can be a conduit for attracting people to your booth, which gives you the opportunity to engage in conversation and ascertain interest. Yet, not all promotional items are worth your investment and some may prove detrimental to your success. So how do you pick giveaways that complement your objectives without burdening your budget?

First, you need to define what you hope to achieve with your trade show giveaways, in addition to attracting people to your booth. You may see your promotional item as a way to increase awareness, introduce a new product line, provide helpful tips, or communicate your contact information in a unique way. Then based on your goals for your giveaways, you need to find an item that is unique, complementary to your product, and accurately reflects the image you need to portray.

Fastball promotions can provide trade show giveaways to you. Whether you select paper pads, bouncing balls, ice scrapers or miniature globes, make sure your giveaways have a connection to your product.

An alternative to a free promotional gift is printing a tip sheet or brochure filled with practical ideas related to your target audience’s needs and your product. Event visitors may be attracted to this type of “tool” because it serves a specific, helpful purpose. Then, at the show, hand out your giveaways selectively. Don’t have them available for anyone to take. You also may ask your booth visitors to give you their business cards or other qualifying information to receive your gift. It will give the promotional item more meaning and help you with your post-show follow-up initiatives.