Are you at work right now? If so, look around you. There's probably an item of promotional merchandise nearby. It might be a branded mouse mat or pen. Possibly a calendar or pad of post it notes. And they've been for some time. Months even. Promoting a brand or marketing message. Raising the profile of a company in a way that outlasts other forms of advertising. At a fraction of the cost. Promotional products are used by all sorts of businesses from tiny one man operations through to global multi-nationals. The reason? Because they work. People don't like to be interrupted when they are sold to. They don't like boring bland messages that they are never going to pay attention to. However, give them something find, useful and interesting that they can enjoy and explore in their own time it's a whole different story. Promotional merchandise can take many forms. From fun little give aways perfect for a trade fair through to more expensive items like executive toys and gadgets. There are so instances in business to get your message across with clever use of promotional merchandise that will go on selling long after it's been handed out. Take a business conference for example. You can get branded folders and bags for delegates to take away. Bags are highly visible. Just think how far your message will travel. Conferences are also a great opportunity to give away some branded prizes. Not only will people appreciate the gesture look what I won, but also remember your message and your brand. Another great idea is a golf day. Golf is a sport that lends itself perfectly to branded merchandise. It's traditionally a game preferred by executive anyway, and you can brand up and give away all sorts of things. From tiny items like scorecards and tees through to clothing, umbrellas and golf bags. Who knows, it might help you clinch a new deal.