Launching a business is always nerve-wracking; the pressure to succeed is almost immediate and daunting. As a result, most start-ups want to make a hard and fast impact to boost their brand visibility, but how do they do it?

As you launch your new business, marketing will be the key to pushing it out there. One marketing tool that never ages is branded promotional products. It is vital to select promotional products that will attract your target audience and reflect your brand.

Here are the top ten items you can never go wrong with when increasing your brand visibility.

1. Custom Branded Merchandise: The Classics That Never Fail

When it comes to promotional items, some classics never go out of style. Custom branded merchandise such as mugs, pens, and notepads featuring your logo and slogan are timeless choices. These everyday items consistently remind you of your brand, keeping you at the forefront of your customers' minds.

2. Custom Branded Clothing: The Walking Advertisements 

T-shirts, hats, and hoodies customised with your brand logo do more than just promote your company—they nurture a sense of community among your audience. When your customers wear your branded clothing, they become walking adverts, spreading awareness about your start-up wherever they go. A good tip is for you and your employees to wear business-branded clothing in your local area to build brand familiarity.

3. Practical Marketing Items

Promotional items that serve a practical purpose are more likely to be used regularly. Everyday essentials like tote bags, water bottles, and umbrellas. These items promote your brand while providing real value to the recipients, ensuring your brand stays visible in their daily lives. Additionally, your brand ends up on show to everyone who sees. 

4. Unique and Creative Giveaways: Stand Out from the Crowd

To capture the attention of your target customer, you need to think outside the box. Innovative items like branded puzzles or custom games can spark curiosity and engagement. These unique giveaways can create memorable experiences associated with your brand, helping you stand out from your competitors. At Totally Branded, we love some old-school fun games that remind people of the joy and fun they may have had with such games when they were younger—remember, creating an experience counts for a lot! 

5. Seasonal Promotional Items: Timely and Relevant

Tailor your promotional strategy to specific times of the year with seasonal items. Holiday ornaments, summer beach towels, or back-to-school supplies can make your brand relevant to current events and seasons, showing that your start-up is in tune with your customers' lives.

6. Trade Show Giveaways

Trade shows or conferences are golden opportunities for start-ups to shine. Design eye-catching giveaways to attract visitors to your booth and create memorable interactions. Pick valuable and unique items relevant to your industry for your merchandise, but don’t be afraid to break the mould; not everyone at a BBQ trade show wants multiple free aprons or spatulas. Ultimately, what will set you apart?

7. Tech Gadgets: Appeal to the Digital Generation

Tech-savvy promotional items can give your start-up a modern edge. USB drives, power banks, and wireless chargers are practical and align your brand with innovation and technological advancement.

8. Eco-Friendly Products: Align with Values

Sustainability is more than a trend – it is a growing consumer expectation. Eco-friendly promotional items like bamboo utensils or recycled notebooks demonstrate your start-up's commitment to environmental responsibility, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.

9. Digital Download Cards: The Virtual Giveaway

In an era of digital transformation, consider offering digital incentives. Download cards providing access to exclusive content, discounts, or special offers can be a cost-effective way to provide value while promoting your digital presence.

10. Customised Stationery: Professional and Personal

Never underestimate the power of well-designed stationery. Personalised notebooks, letterheads, and business cards reinforce your brand's professionalism and create a tangible connection with your audience in an increasingly digital world.

However, our biggest tip here at Totally Branded is to go with what feels right for your brand and your marketing goals. Launching a new business is also exciting, so have fun with it and allow yourself to be bold in your marketing!

With the right mix of promotional products, you can create a powerful brand experience that leaves a lasting impression on your customers and sets your start-up on the path to success.