Monday, December 30, 2013
Taking advantage of mobile platforms
The tech marketing trends of 2013 seem to be growing into the fresh new trends of 2014. Everything from unlimited cloud storage to the full market domination of mobile platforms have made it onto business analysts top 10 tech lists. Small businesses that want to prepare themselves for this brave new world best familiarize themselves with the rapidly changing marketing landscape now. Once they have a better understanding of what's to come, they'll be in a better position to take
Friday, December 27, 2013
5 of the blog's best business tips 2013
Now that 2013 is drawing to a close, it's time to recap some of the best business tips and strategies offered throughout the course of the year. While there is plenty of business advice worth reviewing, the following list is composed of those marketing and promotional strategies that not only kept resurfacing in one form or another, but will also continue to serve small businesses well into 2014. This particular review list is organized in an easy step-by-step approach for those who
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Make welcoming new employees a New Year's resolution
Every year, Americans embark on grand list-making for their resolutions. One of the bigger life changes that people popularly pursue is a better job, according to the U.S. government. For those that succeed, they may have to adjust to new work environments, employer expectations and even hometowns. Getting a lay of the land can be difficult, but fortunately people close to the new hires have opportunities to make transitioning a little easier.Whether given by employers or family, business gifts
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Give the gift of knowledge
With holidays right around the corner, businesses may still be struggling about what to give their customers - and their employees - for the holidays. Instead of being concerned with the size of the present, employers may want to opt for one of the most valuable executive gifts they have to offer - knowledge.Being well-informed is a priceless commodity in today's world. As Inc.Magazine has noted, successful people are those that enhance their knowledge by always choosing to absorb
Monday, December 23, 2013
Tips for creating - and sticking - to New Year's resolutions
Resolutions are a great way to start the new year fresh. Yet, making a list can be difficult for some, let alone completing all of the goals on it. A New Year's resolution list doesn't have to be such a daunting task. Here are some tips for resolutions, from coming up with goals to actually following through, and the corporate gifts that can aid in their completion.Schedule a resolution appointment
Next year's resolutions can be big or small, but whatever goals people decide
Next year's resolutions can be big or small, but whatever goals people decide
Friday, December 20, 2013
Fun ways to celebrate Make Your Dreams Come True Day
Dreams come in all shapes and forms. Some people want to travel the world, while others hope to become world-famous actors. Still others have smaller goals, such as trying a new restaurant or finally working up the courage to ask someone on a date. Whatever people's ambitions, Jan. 13 - National Make Your Dreams Come True Day - is a great excuse to stop procrastinating and start working to make those dreams a reality. Here are a few ideas to get people started, and some corporate gifts
Why it's good to be a morning person
A few years ago, researcher Christoph Randler found that morning people are in a better position to succeed at their careers than others. The reasoning is that they are more proactive than their night owl counterparts, Randler told the Harvard Business Review in 2010. Anyone looking to become more proactive in their own lives may want to pull out their personalized notepads and start taking notes. Some changes in habit - and business gifts - can help executives and potentially employees take
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
Give useful gifts for the business traveler
Packing for business travel is an involved operation. Travelers must do it efficiently if they're to get from the office to the airport to whatever meetings await them. Yet, they'll also need to carry a heap of bulky office clothes that need to look fresh and pressed straight from the bag. Finally, if they're to do any work in transit or give presentations at their destinations, they're going to need laptops, chargers and any other electronic equipment to get the job
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
Get advice from successful entrepreneurs
There are plenty of books that offer advice and expertise on running a business. Wading through them all can be exhausting, but not always fruitful. Sometimes the better advice comes straight from the mouths of other successful entrepreneurs. The new year is a good time for executives to pull out personalized notepads and write down the names of companies they admire. The list should include a combination of highly visible businesses and entrepreneurs, as well as local companies that also
Monday, December 16, 2013
How to make the most of next year's trade shows
It's time for businesses to start circling dates on their calendar, as 2014 brings 12 more months of trade shows. That's a whole yea r's worth of opportunities to perfect the art of the convention, better promote their companies and build stronger relationships with potential clients. Everything from pre-event planning to tradeshow giveaways play an important part of businesses' success at these events, so it's essential that companies review some
Friday, December 13, 2013
Celebrate National Thank You Month with personalized gifts
The new year is fast approaching and with it, a time for fresh starts and resolutions. Gratitude can be a great way for businesses to build a better relationship with the customers and clients that contribute to their successes in 2014. It just so happens that January is also National Thank You Month, meaning there is no excuse not to express some kind of appreciation to the people who matter most. Say it simply
People say it all the time, whether someone holds a door open or passes the
People say it all the time, whether someone holds a door open or passes the
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Monthly gifts could spread joy of holiday giving year round
Giving holiday gifts to clients is a common tradition for many businesses. It can help them increase their visibility as well as build relationships with clients. That is, if it's done properly. Certain gifts may fall flat if they don't take the client into consideration. Sometimes, a holiday gift may not be enough to make a lasting impression the whole year round.The solution then, may involve spreading the holiday cheer a little more evenly across the seasons. While an annual
Avoid the usual social media pitfalls for marketing success
As businesses proceed into 2014, more and more of them are going to start getting social. There is no doubt that, given the number of consumers who consistently participate in online communities, companies should tap into these treasured tools so they can connect with a pool of potential customers. That being said, not all social media methods are created equal, and organizations should be wary of the ways that these kinds of marketing campaigns can go awry.It is heard throughout every industry
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Develop a marketing game plan for the coming year
While many businesses are concerned with attracting shoppers and boosting their sales during the holidays, they should also realize that 'tis the season for some strategizing. As soon as the festivities draw to an end, companies will have to continue this momentum, carrying it all the way through the new year. To make this possibility a reality, organizations should whip out their custom wall calendars now and start drawing up their marketing plan of attack for 2014.Search Engine Land
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Circumvent sticky office party situations with the help of promotional items
The office holiday party almost always puts company representatives in a compromising position. While staff members would love to let loose a little and participate in all of the festive fun possible at these annual events, they also know that they have to maintain some sort of decorum. That said, there are various ways to avoid getting stuck in certain gray zone situations, including those involving the use of business promotional items. These can enable employees to enjoy themselves, while
Monday, December 9, 2013
Businesses benefit from custom printed calendar planning
With the New Year quickly approaching, businesses may be counting down the days until they can embark on revolutionary endeavors and put innovative strategies into effect. To ensure that companies are more than ready to implement these tactics in a timely manner, they should be sure to get their hands on some custom printed calendars so that they stay on track.As soon as organizations have their custom wall calendars readily available, the real fun begins. The Houston Chronicle advised that
Friday, December 6, 2013
Employees enjoy baskets full of business gifts
For company representatives, there may be no greater feeling than the one they get when they come to work and find a massive gift basket on their desk. Businesses should try to spread holiday cheer by rewarding their employees for all of their hard work by putting together a collection of corporate gifts for them.As employers weigh their options in terms of the kinds of items that they would like to include in their baskets, they should take their staff members' preferences in mind.
Secret Santa business gifts form bonds among employees
The holidays have long served as a source of inspiration for business owners looking for a chance to increase camaraderie among their staff members. One of the most common company Christmas traditions is a Secret Santa present exchange. By coordinating this kind of event, organizations give employees the chance to swap business gifts, bonding all the while.According to Entrepreneur Magazine, hosting a holiday event is crucial to bringing staff members together. This is especially the case for
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Seasonal in-store cocoa events boost sales and spirits
As the wintertime temperatures continue to drop, some consumers may find that the only thing they want to do is hunker down on their coach or snuggle in front of a fire. Businesses have to entice customers to leave the comfort of their homes and brave the cold to do some shopping, which they can do with festive promotional event giveaways. The holiday season presents companies with an incredible opportunity to drive up their sales right before the year's end. For this reason,
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
Keep Cyber Monday momentum moving with promotional giveaways
As consumers slowly come out of their turkey-induced comas, they are probably feeling rested and ready to tackle their holiday gift lists. With the initial days of this year's shopping season already passing by, companies should plan on fueling this festive frenzy by handing out promotional giveaways to customers.According to Forbes, although Black Friday has long been the biggest shopping day throughout the year, it appears that this tradition may have been trumped. Because more and more
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Make work fun and boost employee retention
Unless company representatives have Scrooge-like tendencies, the excitement of the holidays is probably boosting their spirits. Organizations should capitalize on this widespread positive sentiment, ensuring that it does not dissipate as soon as the festivities have come to an end. As many business owners may know, having content staff members usually results in improved production rates, increased employee retention and generally healthier work environments. For this reason, companies
Monday, December 2, 2013
Plan promotional contests for any occasion
For companies dealing with nearly any type of business, a significant component of their marketing strategies are normally centered around certain holidays. While there are a number of opportune occasions throughout the year that allow organizations to boost their sales, some may consider wintertime festivities to be the most fruitful. Bearing this in mind, enterprises should go the extra mile by rewarding their seasonal shoppers with promotional items.Businesses should try to appeal to
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Get personal with employee holiday presents
It can be a challenge for businesses to spread Christmas cheer as year-end deadlines loom just around the corner. On top of that, individuals are generally plagued with a litany of tedious pre-holiday errands that they have to complete in a short period of time.As business owners can imagine, the days leading up to yuletide festivities may be filled with tension.That said, setting aside the time to bestow promotional gifts upon company representatives could be a surefire way to ease a
Businesses welcome the new year with personalized calendar gifts
With the new year just around the corner, companies may find that rewarding loyal customers with promotional calendars would be much appreciated. Like corporations, consumers are extremely busy and have a number of items on their docket. For this reason, being able to plan all of their tasks and highlight important events throughout the year could be one of the best gifts clients can receive.There are a variety of ways in which cultures welcome the new year. In Italy, for
Outfit gifts with international Christmas images
A single present has the potential to say a thousand words. This kind of power has been harnessed throughout history, and every culture around the world has its own share of gift-giving practices. For this reason, businesses should take advantage of any opportunity that they may have to reward their employees with tokens of appreciation through budget-friendly promotional items. Perhaps the most popular holiday in the western world, Christmas, is approaching quickly. This celebration of
Charm customers with holiday shopping incentives
For most businesses, the holiday season is when they have to kick their sales initiatives into overdrive. With so many companies competing for consumer attention, it can be tiring for enterprises to make a continuous effort to appeal to shoppers. However, they can save some energy by offering customers incentives such as celebratory events and promotional giveaways.Even though some organizations may view the holidays as a short sprint to drive up sales, it is important that companies
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
Fix - don't nix - holiday office parties to trim expenses
How many opportunities throughout the year do employers have a chance to show their staff members that they care? Unless Arbor Day sounds like a more opportune occasion for small business owners to hand out promotional holiday cards, the Christmas season may be the only window of time that comes to mind.While companies should not necessarily break the bank by throwing a fancy shindig, it is key that they do make an effort to show their employees that they are valuable assets to the
Monday, November 25, 2013
Boost Cyber Monday sales with promotional giveaways and free shipping offers
Major chain retailers have Black Friday, while locally owned stores have Small Business Saturday. But that doesn't mean that e-commerce companies should feel left out from the festivities. The Monday after Thanksgiving - also known as Cyber Monday - is online vendors' opportunity to capitalize on the holiday shopping season.Even though Web-based businesses are the last ones in the lineup to have their turn, that's not to say that they can't outshine other companies. In
Friday, November 22, 2013
Small Business Saturday fosters year-round community togetherness
Small Business Saturday is right over the horizon, and local store owners could practically jump for joy at the mere thought of it.Even though this event obviously has its economic perks by encouraging Americans to turn to mom-and-pop shops for their holiday presents, it has more to offer. For the fourth year in a row, the Saturday after Thanksgiving presents small businesses with the opportunity to connect with their consumers throughout the community - and even reward their
Thursday, November 21, 2013
Entice customers to start celebrating with Hanukkah promotional items
Is there any better way for companies to act in the spirit of the holidays than by giving their loyal customers seasonal promotional items? That does not seem to be the case.With Hanukkah right around the corner, now is the perfect time for businesses to share some cheer with their shoppers with promo giveaways inspired by the Festival of Lights. Even if it's been a while since Hebrew school, organizations can easily come up with some excellent gift ideas for their clientele.One way
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Get social to attract consumer attention on Small Business Saturday
As children still have a month or so to go until they are able to enjoy their favorite holidays, Saint Nick and parents know that now is their time to act.Keeping this in mind, small businesses should be prepared to pull out all of the stops and make the most of this year's shopping season. If they have not made moves toward whipping out the yuletide cheer, perhaps the perfect time to kick off the annual festivities is Small Business Saturday.Since 2010, November 30 has been a
Promotional items serve as thoughtful employee Christmas gifts
Since the days of Charles Dickens, businesses have been showing their appreciation to their staff members by giving them a holiday gift. While geese and fruitcakes are no longer employers' presents of choice, there are numerous other ways in which companies can wish their representatives a merry Christmas, including seasonal promotional items."The No. 1 mistake is underestimating the symbolic value of the holiday season," said Joseph R. Weintraub, management professor at
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Snowfall has diminished over the years
Changes to weather patterns have resulted in diminished snowfall in parts of the United States. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 57 percent of its weather stations saw declining snow accumulation between 1930 and 2007. The EPA attributes this shift to climate change. As the atmosphere has become warmer, weather conditions haven't been able to reach appropriate levels for snow. This means that the traditional winter precipitation may be more likely to receive
Snowfall has diminished over the years
Changes to weather patterns have resulted in diminished snowfall in parts of the United States. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 57 percent of its weather stations saw declining snow accumulation between 1930 and 2007. The EPA attributes this shift to climate change. As the atmosphere has become warmer, weather conditions haven't been able to reach appropriate levels for snow. This means that the traditional winter precipitation may be more likely to receive
Support corporate values with Kwanzaa promo items
While it is true that Kwanzaa has been celebrated for fewer than 50 years, it's not its novelty that makes this holiday so appealing for companies offering promotional items. In fact, some business owners may not know it, but this is the perfect occasion for them to commend their employees for a job well done.The very history behind Kwanzaa makes it a unique opportunity to celebrate the high performance demonstrated by company representatives. The African Studies Center at the
Shop Small & Make a Big Difference this Small Business Saturday
Small Business Saturday is a day dedicated to supporting small businesses across the country. Here are some interesting facts about this movement that will help you understand why you should take part and shop for the cause.
American Express founded Small Business Saturday on 2010 as a way to encourage shoppers to buy from small businesses in their communities during the peak holiday shopping season.
In 2011 the U.S. Senate officially recognized Small Business Saturday, in order to
American Express founded Small Business Saturday on 2010 as a way to encourage shoppers to buy from small businesses in their communities during the peak holiday shopping season.
In 2011 the U.S. Senate officially recognized Small Business Saturday, in order to
Monday, November 18, 2013
Thanksgiving imagery for promotional items
As November draws to a close, small business owners should include Thanksgiving themes and imagery in their marketing plans in order to capitalize on the holiday. The celebration includes a number of symbols that company leaders can easily emblazon on their promotional marketing products. Below are three examples that entrepreneurs can use on the days leading up to the holiday. Pilgrims
Perhaps the simplest one to use is the famous hat thought to have worn by the pilgrims. A tall
Perhaps the simplest one to use is the famous hat thought to have worn by the pilgrims. A tall
Baseball team announces promotional giveaways for 2014
Though the 2013 season just ended with the Boston Red Sox taking home the World Series title, many franchises already looking forward to next year. For instance, the Los Angeles Dodgers have already announced their 2014 schedule of promotional giveaways and special events. The Dodgers plan to distribute a wide range of promotional items, including bobbleheads, jerseys and sweatshirts. The team will give these products away throughout the 2014 season to ensure that fans regularly attend
Friday, November 15, 2013
World AIDS Day is December 1
December brings a very important health awareness day as World AIDS Day occurs on the first of the month every year. The ultimate objective is to teach people about the dangers and prevalence of the disease as well as HIV. Government organizations, the medical community and nonprofits hope to eradicate AIDS and continue working toward a complete cure by increasing public awareness.AIDS awareness received a rather sizable boost ahead of World AIDS Day thanks to a new movie. "Dallas Buyers
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Great ideas to celebrate the end of year with your associates
The year is rapidly heading toward its conclusion, which means that small business owners should start thinking about how they'll celebrate everything their employees accomplished over the last few months. In many cases, this means planning a special party of the entire staff so they can enjoy themselves while they look back at 2013.Of course, there are a few dos and don'ts that entrepreneurs have to keep in mind once they start preparing their events. Below are some of the elements
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Teens disengaged with Facebook
Facebook has established itself as a linchpin in many social media marketing plans. Mark Zuckerberg's social network has been one of the most effective advertising tools for years as it allowed companies to connect with their loyal customers and potential leads. However, now it seems like Facebook's popularity among younger people is diminishing. According to a recent study conducted by Piper Jaffray, only 23 percent of teens consider Facebook as the most important social
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Red Planet Day is approaching
While Thanksgiving commands the most attention as November's top holiday, this year it shares a day with a long-standing tradition. According to Holiday Insights, Red Planet Day is observed annually on November 28. The date was chosen because it is the anniversary of the day the Spacecraft Mariner 4 was launched in 1964. The craft came within 6,118 miles of Mars in only 228 days, the closest any manmade structure had been up to that point. The public's fascination with
December days for promotional giveaways
December is chock full of days that would be perfect for promotional giveaways. Small businesses can tie their marketing events to major holidays to ensure that customers will attend and develop brand recognition. Additionally, companies shouldn't ignore the other great days that could be used for advertising purposes. With November rapidly heading toward its conclusion, entrepreneurs should start planning giveaways for the following days in December. The day that revolutionized
Monday, November 11, 2013
Celebrate National Games & Puzzle Week with promotional items
November will end with a fun celebration in which all small businesses should participate. According to Apples 4 the Teachers, November 24 through 30 is National Games & Puzzle Week, during which everyone should be allowed to have some fun and enjoy some friendly competitions.Entrepreneurs should think of some unique games for their employees to play during this week. While board games may suffice in some instances, some workers may want to participate in something more intricate and
Movie theaters using more promotional products
The fourth quarter is usually one of the more lucrative times of the year for movie theaters as studios start releasing films that are expected to compete for awards consideration in early 2014. This started early in 2013 with the debuts of "Gravity" and "Dallas Buyers Club," while other movies like "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" and "The Wolf of Wall Street" will screen closer to ChristmasWhile the high quality of these films is usually sufficient for
Custom coffee mugs can help consumers wake up
It's difficult to start the day without a cup of coffee and some people are willing to go to extreme ends in order to enjoy their favorite beverage. Ben Affleck is among the many consumers who would take a small risk in order to buy some java. TMZ reports that the star and director of "The Town" recently parked his car in a yellow zone because he couldn't find a space near Starbucks. As a result, Affleck received a $58 ticket while he and his wife were in the store.This fine
Friday, November 8, 2013
Activities to draw in a crowd during Black Friday & Small Business Saturday
Though Thanksgiving is still a few weeks away, small business owners can't afford to miss the opportunity to start preparing for the holiday shopping season, which starts immediately after everyone's finished eating turkey. In fact, it even starts before then in a few stores. According to CNN Money, Kmart plans to open at 6 a.m. on Thanksgiving and will welcome customers until 11 p.m. on Black Friday. Last year, the retail chain closed at 4 p.m. on the holiday and then reopened
Thursday, November 7, 2013
Breast cancer awareness effort leads to massive donations
With Breast Cancer Awareness Month over, various organizations have been releasing information about their fundraising efforts in October. According to WBIR, customers of the Knoxville, Tenn., Kroger supermarket recently donated $51,000 to combat breast cancer. The money was raised as part of a month-long campaign during which consumers could purchase pink bracelets for $1.In a separate campaign, the grocery store chain managed to garner even more donations. The news source reports that Kroger
November is American Diabetes Month
Every month is dedicated toward raising awareness for a specific health issue. November is meant to help prevent one disease that seems to be becoming more and more prevalent. This month is American Diabetes Month, and may play a large part in combating the ailment. Recent research indicates that diabetes is a growing issue. Even from a financial perspective, the disease makes a significant impact. According to the American Diabetes Association, the total cost of diabetes was $245 billion
November is American Diabetes Month
Every month is dedicated toward raising awareness for a specific health issue. November is meant to help prevent one disease that seems to be becoming more and more prevalent. This month is American Diabetes Month, and may play a large part in combating the ailment. Recent research indicates that diabetes is a growing issue. Even from a financial perspective, the disease makes a significant impact. According to the American Diabetes Association, the total cost of diabetes was $245 billion
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Social media marketing tactics for the holiday season
Social media is arguably the most important resource for small businesses as they prepare for the holiday season. By capitalizing on the channel over the next few weeks, companies can ensure that they can capitalize on the expected growth in consumer spending. The National Retail Foundation recently estimated that sales will increase 3.9 percent over 2012's returns. NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay expects the increase despite federal uncertainty."Overall, retailers are optimistic
FAA updates rules on in-flight gadget usage
Consumers just received clearance to use their mobile gadgets on most of their flights. According to NBC News, the Federal Aviation Administration recently relaxed its standards and will now allow airline passengers to use their tablets, handheld video game consoles, e-readers and DVD players during the entire time they're on planes. Phone calls and text messages are still prohibited though customers can go online after reaching 10,000 feet. For many air travelers, this announcement
Monday, November 4, 2013
Why businesses should use promotional tote bags on American Recycles Day
In November, the United States celebrates a day geared toward reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly practices. In 2012, President Barack Obama officially declared that November 15 is America Recycles Day. In the official proclamation that appears on the White House's website, the president urges people "to continue their reducing, reusing, and recycling efforts throughout the year."Of course, there are many everyday items that damage the environment. For instance, single-use
Friday, November 1, 2013
Top 5 promotional items for November
October has come and gone, and the new month presents small business owners with a fantastic opportunity to make plans for new promotional giveaways. November is perhaps the perfect time for company leaders to hold marketing events as the holidays are creeping closer and closer so consumers are starting to think about buying presents and making all of their celebratory preparations. Enterprises that distribute promotional items now will lay the groundwork for a successful and multi-tiered
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Students trying to ban plastic bottles
Both college and middle school students are doing their part to get plastic water bottles banned. According to the Golden Gate Express, the Green Initiative Fund, a student group at San Francisco State University, wants to prevent the single-use containers from being sold on campus. Cameron Bingley, sustainability manager for the Cesar Chavez Student Center, believes that waste is the main reason why plastic bottles should be banned. "The bad thing about single use plastic
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Promotional giveaways help yogurt shop celebrate opening
A chain restaurant will use promotional giveaways to celebrate the grand opening of its new location. The Tampa Tribune reports that Yumz Gourmet Frozen Yogurt will hold a special event when it opens its first Florida establishment on Nov. 1. The eatery plans to give free cups of yogurt to its inaugural 30 customers, beginning at 11:30 in the morning.Yumz is also collaborating with a local radio station to add excitement to the proceedings. According to the news source, WILD 94.1 will be on
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Snapchat: Your next great marketing tool
There are many social networks that small business owners think of as reliable marketing tools. Facebook and Twitter immediately come to mind, while Pinterest and LinkedIn receive attention depending on an establishment's target audience. However, company leaders can't afford to ignore other valuable outlets, even if they seem like they were designed exclusively for consumers. For instance, Instagram was developed for personal picture sharing, but has since become a go-to advertising
Monday, October 28, 2013
Promotional items help school combat substance abuse
Promotional items have the power to raise awareness for important issues like substance abuse. Recently, schools and organizations in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan used the products to support Red Ribbon Week, according to ABC 10. Marquette County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition gave educational institutions giveaways and information to help combat abuse among students. At Westwood High School, Larry Boburka, a guidance counselor, explained that informative games were played."The
Promotional items drive customers to online resources
Two power utility districts recently used promotional giveaways to celebrate Public Power Week. According to the Wenatchee World, Chelan and Douglas County PUDs recognized the week earlier this October alongside 2,000 public utilities from around the United States.To support Public Power Week, Oregon Scientific donated weather radios. The firms planned to give the items away through a contest, which required Douglas customers to enter online and join the new online billing system. Meanwhile,
Friday, October 25, 2013
Winter is coming - Why promotional flashlights make great gifts as the days get shorter
As the Starks from George R.R. Martin's series "A Song of Ice and Fire" are wont to remind everyone, "winter is coming." Once the season arrives, Jack Frost brings his frigid temperatures and unrelenting blizzards. Winter also means that daylight will be in short supply as the sun will rise later and set earlier than it does during the rest of the year. Other characters from Martin's books have been quick to point out that "the night is dark and full of
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Grocery store holds promotional giveaway to celebrate anniversary
Many businesses hold promotional giveaways in order to celebrate special occasions. According to the Tampa Tribune, the Whole Foods Market in Carrollwood, Fla., will do just that as it recognizes its first anniversary. The grocery store plans to distribute free samples and special prizes, as well as host fun games. On November 2, there will be anniversary cake for customers as well, and goodie bags for the first 100 patrons to arrive at the establishment. The following day will
Restaurant uses promotional giveaways for customer appreciation
Promotional giveaways serve many functions. Their primary purpose is to help businesses establish a long-term marketing presence. One secondary element is to act as gifts for customers to show how much a company appreciates them. One restaurant in Herkimer, N.Y., is using a similar tactic to achieve that second objective. According to WKTV, a local NBC affiliate, Denny's plans to give free meals to patrons who visit the eatery on the first day its open since it was closed for 11
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
Prepare for basketball season with promotional items
In a few days, the NBA will tip off a new season. Professional basketball will resume on October 29, and fans are anxious to see whether the Miami Heat can win a third consecutive title or a new team will rise to the occasion to dethrone the champions.Interest in the NBA has been growing in recent years, according to viewership data. The New York Times reports that an average of 17.7 million viewers tuned in to watch the Heat play the San Antonio Spurs in the finals. Game 7 had the largest
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Turning Instagram into a marketing channel
While promotional giveaways will always be popular and effective for generating brand awareness, small businesses always have to capitalize on new digital outlets like Instagram to stay competitive in an increasingly crowded marketplace. The social network is dedicated entirely to visual content so company leaders need to find ways to incorporate videos and pictures into their advertising campaigns. Below are some tips entrepreneurs can follow in order to turn Instagram into one of their best
Monday, October 21, 2013
Start planning year-end events
October marks the beginning of the year's fourth quarter, which means that 2013 is rapidly hurtling toward its conclusion. In a few short months, New Year's Eve will arrive and everyone will have to hang their new calendars for 2014. This means that small business owners have to start making preparations to ensure that they can end the year with a bang, not a whimper. Company leaders need to find creative plans for their promotional giveaways over the next two months. To
Friday, October 18, 2013
Great American Smokeout in November: Promotional items can help spread awareness
Smoking remains all too common in the United States. According to a 2012 study conducted by Centers for Disease and Prevention, 19 percent of American adults smoked in 2011. This was only a 0.3 percent decrease from the previous year. Additionally, the rate of people who smoked between one and nine cigarettes per day increased from 16.4 percent to 22 percent. Fortunately, many activists and local government agencies are stepping up to combat this issue. Community Impact Newspaper reports
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Mastering social media marketing
Social media is one of the most powerful marketing tools available to small business owners. Any entrepreneur can pick a social network, make a profile and start adding content to interest consumers. Because the resource is so essential to an organization's success in today's increasingly digital age, owners need to master the craft. The following are some helpful tips company leaders should use to perfect their social media marketing strategies. The importance of a
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
3 great November holidays for promotional giveaways
October is sadly racing toward its conclusion, which means small business owners have to start looking ahead to November to decide when to schedule their next promotional giveaways. While the 11th month of the year's biggest holiday is Thanksgiving, there are some other celebrations that entrepreneurs should consider when picking days for their marketing events. Read on for three great November holidays for your next giveaway. National Author's Day
According to the
According to the
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Chiropractors should market themselves on World Spine Day
October 16 is World Spine Day, which is dedicated toward combating spinal health issues. According to WorldSpineDay.org, the awareness day was created in 2012 because it "was not as centrally coordinated as World Arthritis Day or World Osteoporosis Day and for this reason it has received less attention." This is a great opportunity for chiropractors to reach out to their current patients and generate new leads. The entire day is designed to combat many of the issues that
Monday, October 14, 2013
Why promotional items and direct mail are a perfect match
Promotional items can be combined with almost any other marketing tool so small business owners can generate synergy between their resources. While it may seem easiest to pair sponsored products with social media, they can also work well with an analog channel like direct mail. Advertising with cards and letters might seem outdated, but the strategy can still be effective. As consumers are inundated with emails and social media updates, it can be difficult for companies to stand out in a
Friday, October 11, 2013
Incorporating Halloween into a marketing campaign
The spookiest holiday of the year is drawing closer and closer. Every day that passes is another one closer to Halloween, and while fewer people plan to celebrate it this year, it's still a remarkably popular day overall. According to the National Retail Federation, "158 million consumers will participate in Halloween activities, slightly less than the survey high of 170 million people last year." Matthew Shay, president and CEO of the NRF, believes that the slight decline
Thursday, October 10, 2013
College radio station uses promotional items for month-long event
Promotional items aren't just effective advertisements for small businesses as they can also help other organizations like college radio stations. The Shorthorn reports that UTA Radio, the official station at the University of Texas at Arlington, will distribute small gifts to generate interest in its Rocktober campaign.The event will run through the end of October and features local bands who are trying to make waves in the music industry. The news source explains that the radio station
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
How to turn social media marketing into sales
Social media can be a great way for a business to increase its presence in the digital space. Companies can use various networks to connect with consumers and start ongoing dialogs with them. Many social networks offer tools to help organizations generate buzz and direct followers to e-commerce sites. While that can be beneficial, there's no guarantee that social media marketing campaigns will lead to increased sales. Small business owners have to find ways to capitalize on their
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
What themes work best for promotional giveaways?
Many customers enjoy promotional giveaways because they're fun events. It can be refreshing to visit an establishment in the midst of an entertaining gathering, especially if the company decided to use an interesting theme. Adding a motif to an event can go a long way toward ensuring that it stands out from others. Many organizations rely on themes to ensure that consumers will actually want to participate. For instance, Pollo Tropical will hold a grand opening
Monday, October 7, 2013
The power of pink - how promotional items can raise breast cancer awareness
The National Breast Cancer Foundation hosts Breast Cancer Awareness Month every October to ensure that the public understands how widespread the disease is and its effects on victims. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately "232,340 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women."While new treatments have helped combat the illness, the mortality rate remains high. The ACS reports that breast cancer is second only to lung cancer in terms of cancer death
Friday, October 4, 2013
Top 5 promotional items for October
October has finally arrived and autumn is in full swing. The new season brings about a great deal of change, especially in nature as the weather is starting to get a bit chillier and leaves turn new colors before they fall to the ground. Of course, the new month also means that small business owners should consider updating their marketing plans. To that end, the following is a look at the top five promotional items for October. Anti-Slip Mobile Phone Stand
Smartphones are everywhere
Smartphones are everywhere
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Promotional items add personality to trade show exhibits
Businesses are always looking for ways to stand out from the competition at trade shows. Many conventions include dozens of exhibitors so it can be difficult for a single company to differentiate itself from everything else. One way to achieve this objective is to distribute unique promotional products to attendees. According to the Trade Show News Network, promotional items help organizations establish personalities for their brands and build themes. This approach is particularly
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Retailer uses promotional giveaways for grand opening ceremony
Even retailers with a national presence rely on promotional giveaways to generate excitement among consumers. For instance, Five Below recently distributed promotional marketing products during the grand opening ceremony of its new location in Athens, Ga., according to the Athens Banner-Herald.The first 300 customers who visited the store received sponsored t-shirts from the retail outlet. The store also planned to distribute other promotional items during its first weekend. Additionally, hot
Monday, September 30, 2013
Get prepared for Get Organized Week
A majority of business managers believe that staying organized is a key tenet to success. By decreasing clutter and improving operational efficiency, an individual and a company is better able to boost production and decrease distractions.The National Association of Professional Organizers believes in the power of organization, which is why it aims to help businesses and individuals increase order and efficiency with key practices. Organization professionals and other managers can renew their
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Key social marketing tips from the pros
Social media has grown exponentially over the past few years as one of the top digital marketing tools available. The versatility of this tool allows both business-to-business and business-to-consumer brands to benefit from reaching out to current and potential customers on the platform. Like most great forms of communication, there are many different tactics used by marketing professionals to boost recognition for a brand, product or service. Here are five key social media marketing tips
Attract bargain hunters during National Coupon Month
Cutting coupons has gone from a simple process done before grocery shopping to a lifestyle. Just look for examples on the TLC show "Extreme Couponing" or the numerous blogs dedicated to the art of cutting out coupons. Those pieces of paper made popular by the budget conscious are not only beneficial for customers, but also for marketing professionals.Coupons are a powerful marketing tool
Coupons are a traditional marketing tool that are used to notify customers about
Coupons are a traditional marketing tool that are used to notify customers about
Friday, September 27, 2013
Save a furry friend during Adopt a Shelter Dog month
Businesses that support pet adoption or are in the animal care industry can use the month of October as marketing inspiration. October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month and it's the perfect time to incorporate a message about the benefits of pet adoption into regular branding practices. By distributing promotional marketing products throughout the month about the benefits of adopting a pet and shelter figures, a company can promote a cause it cares about.Key pet shelter figures in the
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Medical practices can add support to National Chiropractic Health Month with promotional marketing products
Medical practices focused on promoting health-focused educational initiatives may want to consider participating in National Chiropractic Health Month. Held each October, the nationwide campaign is dedicated to activities that educate patients about the benefits of chiropractic care, regardless of age, occupation or fitness level. This year's theme is "Discover Chiropractic: Find Your Game" and a toolkit is being offered to practices. According to the American
Fake Facebook likes damage brands' reputations
In the digital age, social media marketing has become a crucial component of branding efforts. Adult consumers are spending more and more time on social media channels and interacting with a greater number of businesses regularly on networking sites. A Social Habit study found that the average social media user followed 33 companies or brands on a social networking site like Facebook or Twitter in 2012. This is up from 25 companies or brands followed the previous year. When it comes to
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Celebrate unique holidays with promotional marketing products
The month of October is filled with unique, and slightly obscure holidays. Days of celebration and recognition provide everyone an opportunity to think outside of themselves and rejoice or contemplate. Companies that want their marketing events to stand out from the competition next month can distribute promotional marketing products on the following minor holidays. World Food Day
Wood Food Day is held on October 16 and was established by the Food and Agriculture Organization for the
Wood Food Day is held on October 16 and was established by the Food and Agriculture Organization for the
Monday, September 23, 2013
Recognize volunteers' work with promotional products for Make a Difference Day
Volunteers play a crucial role in organizations by performing necessary tasks and raising awareness for various causes. From feeding the hungry to fighting to stamp out cancer, many people find it worthwhile to donate their time and effort to charities. For many organizations, volunteers make up a significant percentage of a workforce and help get projects off the ground. As a result, it's important to take the time to recognize these individuals and thank them for their efforts. By
Friday, September 20, 2013
Celebrate National Women's Small Business Month with promotional marketing products
October is almost here and with it comes the time dedicated to celebrating and recognizing women in business in the U.S. National Women's Small Business Month aims to promote women in business and promote greater equality between the sexes. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, about 30 percent of small businesses are owned by women - this is an increase from just 5 percent in 1970. During the month of October in 2012, the SBA hosted a series of weekly web chats
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Celebrate IT gurus on National Techie Day
As technology continues to spur on the development of business, it's important to remember those who are responsible for making sure systems, infrastructure and devices are functioning properly. October 3rd is National Techie Day. The holiday was launched in 1999, right at the end of the first major tech boom, by Techies.com and co-founded by CNET Networks. The day recognizes those who work hard to keep technology that's so essential to everyday life. In addition, the creators of the
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Boss's Day held in October
National Boss Day or Boss's Day is almost here, which means many workers will be looking for new gift ideas to express gratitude to employers who are doing an exceptional job. The holiday is typically observed on October 16, or the nearest working day, in the U.S. According to Time and Date, the concept of National Boss Day began in 1958 when Patricia Bays Haroski, who was then an employee at State Farm Insurance Company in Deerfield, Illinois, registered the holiday with the
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Prepare a spooky treat with unique promotional products
For many, the month of October is like no other and brings a sense of joy and frivolity. The holiday marks the changing of the seasons from fall and winter and is a time of celebration and superstition. Halloween allows adults to act like children, and for children to take on the personas of spooks, goblins and current pop icons. According to the History Channel, the holiday is expected to have originated from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Key social marketing tips from the pros
Social media has grown exponentially over the past few years as one of the top digital marketing tools available. The versatility of this tool allows both business-to-business and business-to-consumer brands to benefit from reaching out to current and potential customers on the platform. Like most great forms of communication, there are many different tactics used by marketing professionals to boost recognition for a brand, product or service. Here are five key social media marketing tips
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Get a hole in one on National Golf Day
National Golf Day, held on October 4, is a major charitable event that has been sponsored each year since 1952 by the Professional Golfers Association. On this day, over 4,300 professional golfers are encouraged to play golf with contributors and all entry fees go toward a wide range of charitable causes. According to the PGA, golf is a $68.8 billion per year industry and generates almost $4 billion annually for charities, most of which are unrelated to the sport. For many states, the
Monday, September 9, 2013
Celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month with promotional marketing products
In less than a month October will be here and with it comes more than Halloween candy and spooky masks. National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is celebrated each year during October. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, the annual campaign is dedicated to increasing awareness about the disease. While many people know about the disease, many more forget to take the preventative steps to detect the illness early. Key breast cancer facts
Breast cancer is a disease
Breast cancer is a disease
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Celebrate International Literacy Day with promotional marketing products
Not every adult and child in the world has been provided the opportunity to learn to read and write. In an effort to bring literacy to all men, women and children, the International Reading Association and other fine groups have supported International Literacy Day and it's time to celebrate. The annual traditional is observed on September 8 and brings attention to worldwide literacy needs.Illiteracy plagues millions of people in the world
According to the International Reading
According to the International Reading
Saturday, September 7, 2013
Celebrate International Literacy Day with promotional marketing products
Not every adult and child in the world has been provided the opportunity to learn to read and write. In an effort to bring literacy to all men, women and children, the International Reading Association and other fine groups have supported International Literacy Day and it's time to celebrate. The annual traditional is observed on September 8 and brings attention to worldwide literacy needs.Illiteracy plagues millions of people in the world
According to the International Reading
According to the International Reading
Thursday, September 5, 2013
How to plan autumn-themed marketing events
September has finally arrived, but everyone who loves the fall has to wait a few more weeks for their favorite season to officially begin. According to The Old Farmer's Almanac, autumn will start on September 22, and the equinox kicks off at approximately 4:44 p.m. EDT. The fall is arguably the loveliest time of year all over the United States. Where the summer is brutally hot and the winter is painfully cold, the season that separates the two finds a happy medium and usually features
Use the power of Tumblr to market unique promotional products
In the corporate world, it's not uncommon for brands to have Facebook pages, Twitter handles and blogs, however, too many fail to realize the power of a Tumblr account. This micro-blogging social platform is growing in popularity and serves as both a blog and a social network because users are able to share images, video, audio and short pieces of writing in a free-form design. Consider using Tumblr as a social media marketing tool
Tumblr has over 105 million blogs and 49 billion
Tumblr has over 105 million blogs and 49 billion
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Top 5 promotional items for September
August has officially reached its conclusion and the ninth month of the year has already begun. September brings a great deal of change besides just new pages in a calendar. This new month includes autumn's arrival and is when most children head back to school for another year of learning.Of course, a new month means that small business owners need to update their marketing plans. September can be a great time for entrepreneurs to hold promotional giveaways and attract customers to their
Monday, September 2, 2013
Unique promotional items can help customers prepare for winter
Though summer hasn't reached its conclusion, many folks are already looking ahead toward winter. After last year's storms buried most of the United States under snow, it's hard to blame anyone for preparing for the cold season even if it is still warm outside. Unfortunately, it seems that this winter will be quite brutal. According to Farmers' Almanac, winter 2013-2014 will feature lower than average temperatures for approximately two-thirds of the country. The news
Facebook relaxes its standards for promotional giveaways
In order to run promotional giveaways on Facebook, small business owners would have to create apps for their pages, but that requirement has recently been abolished. According to Marketing Pilgrim, the social network has announced that contests and marketing events can be held directly on company profiles as well as third-party apps. Further, entrepreneurs can now use Facebook functionality for their giveaways. The news source points out that small business can collect contest entries via
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Small businesses should distribute promotional umbrellas to students
Small business owners can help students prepare for the school year by distributing unique promotional products. Perhaps the most functional items that entrepreneurs can give away are logo-emblazoned umbrellas so that young customers won't be soaked every time there's a storm. Students in San Antonio recently had to face this problem. According to KENS 5-TV, a CBS-affiliated station, the first day of school in the Texan city was a wet one, and KENS 5 meteorologist Paul
Promotional giveaways are a hit at Ohio State
Promotional giveaways are a staple of the Ohio State University's annual Buck-i-Frenzy, and they were a massive hit with students at this year's event. The Lantern recently reported that the gathering brought over 20,000 students to the Recreation and Physical Activity Center, where dozens of businesses were offering samples, small gifts and free food. Maureen Flanagan, a first-year Spanish student, told the news source that the Buck-i-Frenzy is a great way for students to find
Key tips for small business branding
Small business marketing is an intricate and delicate task as owners have to create unique identities for their companies in order to stand apart from the competition. Branding an enterprise is one of the most important parts of creating a lasting presence in the marketplace. Jonah Berger, author of "Contagious: Why Things Catch On" and an associate professor of marketing at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania recently explained to Entrepreneur Magazine that
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Why pictures matter in social media marketing
Small business owners have to combine many disparate elements to create successful social media marketing campaigns. Some features, such as hashtags, are practically requirements to boost brand equity and engage online consumers. Pictures are usually forgotten because there are many other elements that need to be included in every post, but are extremely important. Customers can easily ignore a single Tweet or status update on Facebook, but photos stand out amid all of the
Monday, August 26, 2013
Promotional products can help raise funds for needy pups on National Dog Day
August 26 is a very special day for dog lovers in the United States. According to Holiday Insights, that day is National Dog Day, which is dedicated to recognizing everything that canines do for their humans. The pets love their families unconditionally and are often everyone's best friend. Joseph Moreus, 61, of Westminster, Calif., told the Associated Press he understands why dogs are more beloved than cats. "They have more personality. They are loyal. Cats are all about
Friday, August 23, 2013
Promotional items can raise safety awareness
Promotional items are valuable marketing materials, but their effectiveness extends beyond enhancing a small business' brand equity as many sponsored products can help keep customers safe. Clients appreciate entrepreneurs who distribute functional advertisements that help them stay out of harm's way. While there are many gifts that can enhance safety, some are more effective than others. The following is a look at the top five promotional marketing products that will help clients
Thursday, August 22, 2013
Common social media marketing mistakes
Promotional items are effective analog advertisements, but small businesses also need to establish a digital presence in order to reach out to consumers. Specifically, pages on multiple social networks are necessities in the modern marketplace for connecting with customers and enhancing brand equity. However, simply creating profiles isn't enough to help a company position itself as an industry leader. In order to successfully execute a social media marketing strategy, small business
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
September is Healthy Aging Month
Small business owners aren't the only ones who can use promotional giveaways to raise awareness for their various elements. Medical professionals can use the marketing events to generate exposure for both their practices and different causes, including health risks and strategies for staying fit. September is a great opportunity for health care providers to hold giveaways and reach out to certain clients as the month is Healthy Aging Month, according to the American Psychological
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
September has unique marketing opportunity for pizza places
There are some holidays that seem tailored perfectly for some business' promotional giveaways and other marketing strategies. There is one such day in September that seems like it was created specifically for restaurants that sell pizza. According to Foodimentary, September 5 is National Cheese Pizza Day, which recognizes one of the most popular meals in the United States. Sales have been trending upward recently. PMQ Pizza Magazine reports that the pizza industry grew by 1.6 percent
Monday, August 19, 2013
Introducing Myron Corp.'s 2014 promotional wall calendars
The summer is nearing its inevitable end as fall creeps closer. In a few short weeks, the weather will change and a chill will be in the air, and in a blink of an eye 2013 will be over. The new year brings fresh opportunities to small business owners, especially from a marketing perspective. One great part about 2014's arrival is that it allows entrepreneurs to distribute new promotional wall calendars. The sponsored items are effective marketing tools because they're functional
Friday, August 16, 2013
Celebrating September's patriotic holidays
When it comes to patriotic holidays, many people think of Independence Day, Veterans Day and Presidents Day, only to forget about some others. All throughout the year there are important dates during which Americans are supposed to reflect on their heritage. Two such holidays are in September. Patriot Day and Citizenship Day are two of the most important events of the year in the United States because they represent such important moments in history. The former started on one of the
Thursday, August 15, 2013
How to celebrate National Relaxation Day
Some days are perfect for unwinding and that's certainly the case on August 15. According to Days of the Year, that date is officially designated as National Relaxation Day. The entire objective of the holiday is to get away from the daily grind and relax for once.This is an occasion that small business owners should recognize in order to improve employee retention and combat burnout. A recent study conducted by the Families and Work Institute shows that nearly a third of all American
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
3 September holidays for promotional giveaways
September starts with a bang thanks to Labor Day, but that's not the only great day on which small businesses can host promotional giveaways. The ninth month of the year features a host of great holidays that can be used for marketing purposes. Many of the following celebrations aren't particularly well-known, but that could actually be an advantage for many entrepreneurs. By hosting unique events, company leaders can ensure that their promotions stand out from those held by
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Project reveals many people want to live on Mars
Over 100,000 people are vying for the opportunity to live on Mars. According to CNN, these candidates have completed their submissions to be considered for the chance to be sent to the red planet by Mars One, an organization that wants start colonizing Mars by 2022. The news source reports that 30,000 Americans were among the volunteers. Mars One charges a fee for every application. The total cost is based on the gross domestic product of the volunteer's country. Bas Lansdorp,
Project reveals many people want to live on Mars
Over 100,000 people are vying for the opportunity to live on Mars. According to CNN, these candidates have completed their submissions to be considered for the chance to be sent to the red planet by Mars One, an organization that wants start colonizing Mars by 2022. The news source reports that 30,000 Americans were among the volunteers. Mars One charges a fee for every application. The total cost is based on the gross domestic product of the volunteer's country. Bas Lansdorp,
Project reveals many people want to live on Mars
Over 100,000 people are vying for the opportunity to live on Mars. According to CNN, these candidates have completed their submissions to be considered for the chance to be sent to the red planet by Mars One, an organization that wants start colonizing Mars by 2022. The news source reports that 30,000 Americans were among the volunteers. Mars One charges a fee for every application. The total cost is based on the gross domestic product of the volunteer's country. Bas Lansdorp,
Monday, August 12, 2013
It's almost time for kids to go back to school
Much to parents' delight and childrens' chagrin, summer is almost at its end and a new school year is rapidly approaching. In a matter of weeks, institutions will open their doors and welcome back all of their students for another ten months of lessons. Of course, this also means that parents and guardians will soon have to bring their children shopping to buy certain necessities. Without all the essentials, students wouldn't be able to complete their assignments during the
Help teachers prepare for the school year
Students aren't the only ones who will head back to school over the next weeks as teachers will start working at that time. Educators are dedicated to their jobs and classes, but the summer is a welcome respite from the stresses of molding young minds every day. Dr. Kevin Eames, a former teacher, told the BBC that while the profession is invigorating, some people who come from demanding fields are stressed by teaching."It's exciting. The adrenaline burn from the classroom is
Friday, August 9, 2013
How to host a Labor Day event for customers and employees
While August is devoid of major holidays, there is one shortly after the month concludes. September starts off with Labor Day, a holiday that marks the unofficial end of summer. According to the United States Department of Labor, the first Monday in September is Labor Day to celebrate "the social and economic achievements of American workers" and recognize all the contributions that people have made over the last year. Ironically, no one knows who put forth the effort to actually
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Now may be the perfect time for real estate agents to start new marketing campaigns
Real estate agents may want to create new marketing campaigns in the near future because the housing market is gaining momentum. Property Wire reports that the Zillow Home Value Index shows the average home price was $161,100 during 2013's second quarter, which is a 2.4 percent increase from the first quarter. The gains are expected to continue for at least another 12 months. According to the news source, the Zillow Home Value Forecast shows that home values are
Win over college students with promotional items
The school year is almost here, which is great news for small business owners in college towns. These entrepreneurs rely on students to help their companies thrive because many cities turn into ghost towns as soon as everyone goes home for the summer. Of course, this means that small business owners have to market to young consumers in order to increase sales while school is in session. Jeff Gawronski, president of Dorm Co., told Entrepreneur Magazine that entrepreneurs should stay
Small business owners can use soccer for their promotional giveaways
Soccer's top professional league is about to start a new season. The Barclays Premier League's 2013/2014 season will begin on August 17, and fans can hardly wait for the day to finally arrive. The league attracts top talent from all over the world, making it extremely competitive and endlessly entertaining for spectators. This may not seem like a huge deal in the United States, but soccer's popularity is steadily growing. According to Fox News, ESPN ratings data shows that
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
Celebrate Curiosity with promotional items
Curiosity has been exploring Mars for more than year. According to National Geographic, the rover is halfway through its two-year mission. During its expedition, Curiosity has analyzed samples to determine whether the red planet is capable of supporting life. Additionally, the machine has been charting potential courses for future missions to Mars. Curiosity's exploits have riveted the American public and made space travel popular once again. After years of disinterest, the Mars rover
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Schools should recognize National Inventors' Month
Every month features a special celebration for important historic accomplishments. August is no different as it is National Inventors' Month, according to the Evanston Public Library. The month is meant to recognize all the men and women who have developed innovations that have improved everyday life and changed the world.Indeed, inventions are constantly streamlining how people go about their daily lives and interact with each other. For instance, approximately a decade ago, everyone
Monday, August 5, 2013
The trouble with Yelp
Small business owners face a growing problem when it comes to controlling their reputations online, especially since Yelp's popularity has grown. This site allows customers to write reviews of companies. The feedback is available for anyone to read and is supposed to help consumers great establishments for every product or service. However, Yelp is arguably hurting small businesses more than helping. For instance, Ed Wells, owner of Chowderheads, told Business Insider that he thinks
How to run a contest on Facebook
Many small business owners hold online promotional giveaways to increase their presence in the e-commerce sphere. By holding contests and offering promotional items to a digital audience, an entrepreneur can ensure that his or her company can reach out to consumers around the world, instead of being limited to the local area. Some professionals try to generate synergy between marking channels by holding giveaways on Facebook to increase their social media following. This can be a
How to run a contest on Facebook
Many small business owners hold online promotional giveaways to increase their presence in the e-commerce sphere. By holding contests and offering promotional items to a digital audience, an entrepreneur can ensure that his or her company can reach out to consumers around the world, instead of being limited to the local area. Some professionals try to generate synergy between marking channels by holding giveaways on Facebook to increase their social media following. This can be a
Friday, August 2, 2013
Top 5 for August: Take advantage of the last days of summer!
August has arrived, and that means that the summer has entered its dying days. In a matter of weeks, schools will open their doors and welcome children back for another academic year. Shortly after that, the seasons will officially change with autumn's arrival bringing cool weather and colorful leaves. But all of that is in the future. The summer is still here and should be enjoyed by all. Small business owners can ensure that their customers enjoy the last days of summer by
Thursday, August 1, 2013
It's National Simplify Your Life Week
Some holidays are dedicated to helping people prepare for the rest of the year. For instance, the first week of August is National Simplify Your Life Week, according to the North Carolina Cooperative Extension. These seven days are supposed to be when everyone gets themselves organized to minimize stress.There are numerous ways in which one can simplify his or her life. For instance, people can take the time to organize their homes so they can easily find important items without having to rifle
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
National Smile Week is in August
There is a special week in August that's the perfect opportunity for dentists to reach out to their patients and emphasize the importance of good oral health. According to Holiday Insights, the second week of the month is National Smile Week.Everyone dreams of having pearly whites, but very few people take sufficient care of their teeth to achieve that goal. Brushing at least twice per day and flossing are important, but regular trips to the dentist are also critical to ensuring that
Holding a legal promotional contest
Promotional giveaways are valuable marketing events that can be used to generate interest in a small business and increase sales. A special occasion can ensure that customers will want to visit and potentially make new purchases, which strengthens the company's bottom line.Some small business owners enhance their giveaways by turning them into contests. After all, fun games encourage consumers to participate in an enterprise's marketing event because they want to win unique prizes.
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Planning an anniversary celebration
Many small business owners are lucky enough to celebrate multiple anniversaries because their companies manage to thrive for years on end, even in today's uncertain economic market. These are grand occasions that entrepreneurs should enjoy because they are the culmination of another successful year.While some professionals may want to celebrate in private, this is a faulty practice. Small businesses depend on their customers' continued patronage, so owners should include their clients
Monday, July 29, 2013
Social media being used to raise HIV/AIDS awareness
Social media is the latest tool being used to raise awareness for HIV and AIDS. The New York Times reports that the Center for AIDS Research, a joint program of Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, is developing an online forum to help combat transmission of the diseases. For the initiative, representatives for different demographics were asked to participate. The ultimate goal is for people in every group and subculture, including recent immigrants, to
Help customers avoid dehydration
Dehydration is a constant danger for people during the summer. According to Medical Daily, the American Heart Associations explains that the risk of developing the condition is high when the temperature exceeds 70 degrees Fahrenheit and the humidity level is high. People have to drink water to ensure that they won't become ill during the summer. Live Outdoors advises that everyone should drink between 1 and 1.5 liters every hour when engaging in outdoor activities in order to
Umbrellas prevent sun damage
Many consumers believe they only need umbrellas when it's raining, but that's not the case as the items are also great for avoiding damage from the sun. A recent study in JAMA Dermatology shows that umbrellas block anywhere from 77 to 99 percent of ultraviolet radiation. Indeed, umbrellas may be some of the best tools for avoiding problems caused by constant exposure to the sun. Additionally, sunscreen doesn't always provide sufficient protection from the sun's
3 advanced tips for social media marketing
While promotional marketing products remain an important advertising tool, small business owners also have to think about capitalizing on digital resources to maintain relevance in the modern economy. Without an effective online presence, a company can easily fall behind its competition because many consumers go online to search for goods and services. Specifically, social media profiles are practically requirements in order to reach out to customers these days.Small business owners must create
Friday, July 26, 2013
Offer promotional pens as backups
Everyone occasionally loses a pen from time to time. From students to executives, many people are caught unprepared because they can't remember where they left their writing utensils. As a result, these people have to waste precious minutes searching for replacements or bother their friends and colleagues to borrow pens. This is a huge problem, especially for workers. Every second spent on trying to locate a pen is a second of lost productivity. This means that some staff members
Use football season for promotions
At long last, the wait for football is finally at an end. According to CBS Sports, all NFL teams will officially be in training camp as of July 26, marking the return of America's most popular sport. While baseball may be the national pastime, there's no denying the popularity of professional football. The sport dominates airwaves and discussions from July to February. Even during the offseason, many media outlets and fans can't help but talk about football as they worry
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Reward employees on Work Like a Dog Day
While many holidays are meant to give employees time off from work, but there are others that for recognizing the efforts of truly dedicated contributors. One such day arrives on August 5 as Holiday Insights explains that date is Work Like a Dog Day. On this holiday, employers are supposed to reward their staff members for their dogged determination and commitment to doing excellent work every single day. Small business owners should watch their teams carefully over the next few weeks to
Promotional items help car dealerships
Car dealerships rely on various marketing techniques to attract buyers, but few are as effective as distributing promotional items. Branded gifts establish bonds between sales representatives and potential customers, which can ultimate lead to new deals and increase revenue for the enterprise. According to Dealer Marketing Magazine, promotional marketing products are effective because they create long-term exposure for a dealership. Some consumers keep the sponsored items for years on end
Promotional items are eco-friendly marketing tools
Many small business owners are trying to find eco-friendly ways to marketing their enterprises. Going green has almost become a standard practice in every facet of the corporate world because it offers numerous benefits. For instance, Lauren Kelley Koopman, a director for PwC's Sustainable Business Solutions, told Entrepreneur Magazine that the perks extend well beyond energy savings. "Cost savings are evolving into revenue generation. Sustainability is next-generation
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
August is National Immunization Month
With August's imminent arrival fast approaching, medical professionals have to look for ways to encourage their patients to seek medical treatments throughout the month. Fortunately, August is dedicated to an important cause as it's National Immunization Month, according to the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. The objective of the awareness campaign to explain the importance of shots and vaccines to consumers so they aren't at risk of developing preventable
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
Town giving away reusable tote bags
With increasing frequency, town governments are trying to curb pollution by convincing residents to capitalize on reusable tote bags instead of disposable models. For instance, the Westhampton-Hampton Bays Patch reports that Southamption recently distributed canvas bags to consumers who pledged to reduce, reuse and recycle plastic models. This program was quite successful in 2012. The news source explains that Chris Nuzzi and Preston Scalera, two council representatives,
Promotional wall calendars are great for giveaways
The year is already more than half over so small business owners have to start planning promotional giveaways for the final months and prepare for 2014. For marketing events during the latter portion of 2013, entrepreneurs should distribute promotional wall calendars to their customers. The early bird gets the worm, and professionals who act now can have great schedules to hand out to all of their clients in the coming months. The calendars are effective marketing tools because they
Monday, July 22, 2013
LinkedIn marketing tips for B2B enterprises
Promotional giveaways play a huge role in business-to-business marketing, but social media is also becoming an increasingly prevalent factors. For companies in this sector, LinkedIn is arguably the best resource for generating leads and reaching out to clients because it's the only social network designed exclusively for professional connections. On the other hand, Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter are geared more toward consumers than business leaders.Marketing on LinkedIn is almost a
Friday, July 19, 2013
How to keep employees motivated during the summer
The arrival of summer has a great deal of meaning for small business owners and their employees. Unfortunately, the two groups rarely share the same objectives during the season as the former wants to increase productivity and the latter wants to relax.Indeed, many staff members view the summer as the perfect opportunity take a break and disengage from their jobs for a few weeks. After all, workers are conditioned by their time at school to believe they only have to work from September to June
Thursday, July 18, 2013
August is National Golf Month
Though August is summer's final month, there's still plenty of time for consumers to celebrate and small business owners to market their companies. The month features plenty of themes and holidays that entrepreneurs can use for exciting promotional giveaways that customers will love. Perhaps the most notable aspect of August is that it's National Golf Month, according to Fitness Magazine. Indeed, August may be the best time to hit the links. June is usually full of
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
How to market on Twitter
Promotional giveaways are valuable marketing resources, but social media is playing an increasingly large role in advertising. As more consumers create profiles and spend more time online, small business owners have to craft an effective web presence to ensure that they can reach out customers and new prospects.One network that entrepreneurs should use is Twitter because of the site's large user base. According to Twitter's blog, the social network has over 200 million active users
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Coffee prices plummet, but savings might not reach consumers
While consumers have been trying to find ways to cope with the increasing prices of many goods, at least one commodity has become less expensive. Data from the International Coffee Organization shows that coffee's price per pound hit $1.18 in June 2013. The price has fallen every month this year so far. Some cafes will be able to lower their prices thanks to the diminished overhead, but not all companies will use that strategy. For instance, Sarah Wilson-Jones, chief executive
School bans plastic water bottles
With increasing frequency, organizations are trying to fight pollution by banning the sale of single-use water bottles. Because the containers have such a significant impact on the environment, it's crucial for consumers to find alternative means to carry around their beverages. A university recently joined the fight against plastic bottles. The Western Front reports that Western Washington University will ban the sale of water bottles in campus stores and vending machines. The new
Demand for chocolate increases
Chocolate remains one of the most popular foods in the world. According to Bloomberg, 310,408 metric tons of cocoa beans were ground in 2013's second quarter by European manufacturers, which is a 6.1 percent increase over the totals from the same time period last year. Additionally, some small business owners have noticed a recent uptick in demand. For instance, Joe Sammartino, owner of Phillips Candy House, told WBZ NewsRadio 1030 that he believes demand is trending upward
Monday, July 15, 2013
Combat employee turnover with personalized business gifts
Small business owners have to do everything in their power to prevent their best employees from resigning. If a great staff member quits, the company might experience diminished productivity and lowered morale until a replacement is found. Additionally, the American Association of Retired Persons explains that enterprises have to cover the costs of training for new hires, which eats into the bottom line. What's more, there are additional recruiting expenses, including referral
How to advertise promotional giveaways on Pinterest
Small business owners should use social media to advertise their promotional giveaways. While there is a wide range of social networks entrepreneurs can use to tell followers to about their marketing events, Pinterest may be the most effective by a wide margin. The website focuses exclusively on sharing pictures by allowing users to create digital pinboards. When consumers log in and see images they like, they can pin those photos to their own boards. Many small business owners use
Promotional products can help spread awareness about Important eye health issues
Medical professionals can use promotional items to raise awareness for important issues like eye health. Sight is arguably the most important of the five senses, so healthcare providers should ensure that patients are doing their best to keep their eyes safe. Fortunately, doctors and ocular specialists have a great opportunity to build awareness for eye health in August. According to Holiday Insights, August is National Eye Exam Month. Additionally, Health Matters at Work explains that the
Friday, July 12, 2013
3 August holidays for promotional giveaways
Time seems to fly by in the summer. One minute it seems like the season is just beginning as the school year comes to a close and then autumn arrives in the blink of an eye. July is currently accelerating to its conclusion, leaving August as summer's last remaining month. Fortunately, small business owners have plenty of marketing opportunities during the final 31 days of the season. While August is completely devoid of major celebrations, there are still some fun holidays on which
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Find new business with beach goers and travelers
Summer is a prime time to travel. For one, the weather is usually more enjoyable during this season than it is in others, so consumers are willing to explore new areas. What's more, children are out of school so families can travel together without their sons and daughters missing important lessons.According to some experts, the 2013 season will likely be busy for the travel industry. In an interview, Marilyn Greenwax, National Public Radio's senior business editor, stated that
Hydration is the best way to beat the heat
The summer is supposed to be an enjoyable time of year in which people go outside and explore all that nature has to offer. Unfortunately, the season also brings a significant danger in the form of heat. Dr. David Chun, an emergency physician at Kootenai Health, told the Couer d'Alene Press that heat-stricken patients are common this time of year. "Every day when I come to work during a heat wave in a community like this one - a community that normally doesn't
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Teenagers raising breast cancer awareness
Breast cancer continues to affect thousands of patients in the United States every year. Fortunately, some people are doing their best to combat the disease by raising awareness and helping medical institutions raise necessary funds in order to find a cure. Two teenagers have recently stood out for their charitable efforts. According to Boston.com, Adam Lassman is generating awareness through his Pink Seat Project. For the initiative, Lassman, who is 17 and lives in Needham, Massachusetts,
Help employees enjoy lunch
While many people spend most of their shifts thinking about what they'll have for dinner, lunch may actually be the most important meal of the day. In order to stay focused and energized, workers have should enjoy nice meals during the day. Employees who are constantly combating hunger pains will likely struggle to handle everyday projects. However, many professionals are now skipping their mid-day feasts. Susan Crook, a marketing and advertising consultant, told USA Today that her