Recently I attended a monthly luncheon which was very well attended. At this luncheon there were a couple of tables where a select few companies could display their information as well as the key members of the company were present for questions and conversation.

As I stood back, I observed the display tables and how efficient they were. Of course the efficiency depends on what the goal for the company was but that is not what I want to talk about this time.

I did observe something that is very common for this type of event. After checking in, the attendies make their way to the main room where they will eat an listen to the presentation. While walking to their tables, most people quickly glanced at what companies were in the ‘display table’ area. Their eyes started at top of the display reading who the company is but then quickly moved down to the table…..of course to see what was spread out on the table up for their grabbing. Most attendees quickly moved closer to the table so they could reach out their arm and just as fast, grab either one of the items or one of each item if when multiple options were present. Others would actually have small talk with the key member there but most just walked away with their ‘prize’ in hand.

Once the attendees entered the large room, their tables contained had even more ‘pass outs’ for each person sitting at the table. Some of these items were the same as what was out front but others were different. Most of the key table presenters had flyers of some sort spread around the table explaining their business a little bit more in depth. This was a great idea because as I already stated, most attendees were more interested in getting their ‘prize’ and sitting down then they were actually talking to the person standing at the table.

Once we were seated, the presentation began. Each display table had a few minutes to talk more about their company. One of the businesses explained why placed a blank envelope at each person’s seat. In this envelope was a crisp, new one dollar bill…..Interesting idea but how memorable is it? It is very memorable in the fact that someone just gave me a dollar bill, that I can now go buy a large coke with J, but how memorable in the long run?

Will I remember who gave it to me? Actually I don’t. I only remember what industry the business was in but not the business name itself.

When you are choosing what promotional product you are going to pass out, there are many things to think about! You, of course, want to be remembered but how long do you want to be remembered?

Labels: Display Table, Dollar Bill, promotional product