You have decided to take the plunge and start your own business. It doesn’t matter if you have an actual

storefront, medical office or a web business; you still have to advertise to let prospective customers know

who you are and what you do. An effective way to get your name in front of qualified consumers is to

print your name and logo on useful promotional products. Successful companies usually budget about

3% of their annual revenue for business advertising expenses, be sure to include printed products in your

advertising allowance.

Business cards, letterheads and envelopes are required by all types of businesses. The quality of paper and

printing methods say a lot about you and your business. Stay away from the "free" printing services offered

on line, when your prospective customer flips over your business card to write notes, you do not want them

to see someone else’s ad on the back.

Make sure you have high quality pens engraved with your company name and logo. How much you spend

on a pen is up to you, nice printed plastic barrel pens start at less than .50 each. When placing your order,

save money with quantity discounts. Customers are likely to walk off with your pens if they use them to

sign checks and credit cards. This is a great way to remind them where they took it from. Another way to

distribute your pens is to leave a few at the banks and post offices in your area. Always have your phone

number and website printed on your pens to get the most value from your business advertising dollars.

There is nothing worse than shopping at a store and trying to find an employee to help you find something.

Identify your employees professionally with printed uniform shirts. Polo style shirts in your company

colors look great and they are comfortable. Casual shirts have become widely accepted for many retail

and sales businesses. T-shirts printed with your company logo are an affordable alternative. You might

be surprised how proud your staff will be to wear company shirts, jackets and hats even on their day off.

Consider baseball style caps for employees or use them as a give away for your good customers.

Business expos or home and trade fairs in your area are also a great way to meet prospective clients and

customers. Membership in your local business association or chamber of commerce gives you many

advantages. Summer parades and holiday functions give you an opportunity to show your community

that you care. A great way to break the ice when talking to strangers is to hand them a free token of

appreciation. There are endless promotional products related to your business that can be printed with your

name and logo. Measuring tapes, mini screwdrivers, key rings and can coolers are just a few useful items

your customers will keep for a long time. Children will drag their parents directly to you for a free balloon

or candy. Make sure they remember you when they get home.

Gain exposure for your company by sponsoring a sports team. Soccer, baseball teams and even bowlers

will proudly wear your name on their jerseys or shirts. Donate balls, tees and divot tools with your brand to

the next golf outing. Water bottles with your logo are sure to be a hit with basketball teams and cyclists.

Celebrate the milestones of your business by printing anniversary dates on all of your promotional products.

Consumers will respect and value the longevity of your company.

No matter if your company is new or well established, business advertising is key. Think about the many

items you must purchase for your business. They can double their value when you also gain the marketing

advantage with custom printed promotional products.