Of course, they aren't only used to prevent the loss of personal items
. If you attend a conference these days, you are likely to notice that most people have an ID tag hanging from a lanyard. Although this wasn't always protocol, it is becoming more and more common in business settings. It makes sense because it allows for quick introductions and also lets you know in a matter of seconds who a person is and what company they are representing. This can be a great way to decide who to network with at the next corporate social. And for the host company, they have the benefit of including their name on the lanyard itself. Therefore, when people bring it home they might find another purpose for it which will continue to spread the brand of the host company.