VO-BB - 20 YEARS OLD!

David Bucci · Joined: 23 Feb 2013 Posts: 3 Location: Ashtabula, Ohio

Hi, everyone. I'm curious if anyone gives out "stuff" besides business cards? I ordered some logo pens with my info on them and I love that way of making my presence known. I realize that I'm dealing with very local folks when I do this, but you never know what kind of business connection you can make even from a quick introduction.

Anyone else?
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DenaliDave · Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2016 9:25 am Post subject:

I thought about getting pens, I mean -- how cool is it to have your own pens, right?!

Then I thought more about it....It went like this:

"Self, when's the last time you've used a pen with a logo or company on it and utilized that company or spent money with that business?"

The answer was pretty much never (for me). I think promotional gear can work if you are a huge company and have booths at conventions and expos. Having cool stress balls, pens, and laser pointers might get people to your booth.

I looked into some other neat promotional items but soon found that you have to order in fairly large quantities, far more than I would need.
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Philip Banks · Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2016 2:41 pm Post subject:

It's about picking your targets not the gifts. People need to be reminded of YOU not be given a glorified business card which, in effect, is all a pen with your logo printed on it proves to be.

Bruce · Posted: Wed Oct 05, 2016 5:03 pm Post subject:

I'm not excited about giveaways for future, potential clients, but I'm always ready to send something nice to the people who've paid me lots of money. You better believe the production houses that are working until 2 in the morning producing the political videos I and others are voicing are getting big boxes of candy and snacks again this year to help them get through the month.

B
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Philip Banks · Posted: Thu Oct 06, 2016 12:31 am Post subject:

Yes! Thinking of you is a much better idea than "send work and money".

todd ellis · Posted: Thu Oct 06, 2016 5:21 am Post subject:

Bish · Posted: Thu Oct 06, 2016 6:32 am Post subject:

Ignoring the really important stuff that Todd and Philip have touched on (the personal & individual thank-yous to clients and business partners), then the most impressive giveaway swag should be interesting, useful, and unique. Pens are old hat... an old hat would actually be more memorable.

... or, you could always just go with the traditional hookers'n'blow.
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Lizden · Posted: Thu Oct 06, 2016 6:38 am Post subject:

And Peter's post is exactly why I am sooooooooo happy the VO-BB is back! Kiss

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RAINVO · Posted: Thu Oct 06, 2016 11:59 am Post subject: giveways

I like to send some of my regular clients ( and occasional new ones) $5/$10 starbucks gift cards via email from their website once on random occasions. Just a "hey, hope your doing well. I appreciate your business and here's something to help you get through the day". I also send cookies, chocolates, and candies to select clients during the holidays. As far as pens, I had a company send me a sample of a customized stylus/click pen that I thought was pretty cool. I might get a small batch of those just for the hell of it and maybe throw in some holiday boxes.
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Chuck Davis · Posted: Sat Oct 08, 2016 5:35 am Post subject:

The only time I send out "stuff" is when I send holiday gifts. (not at Christmastime either). Starbucks cards, chocolate baskets....fun "thank you"s.
I never include any branding with these gifts. Just a personal note, handwritten. As Todd said, it's about relationships. Professional, but personal as well.
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Bob Bergen · CM Joined: 22 Apr 2008 Posts: 979

I used to send out a lot more. But this was before the internet. We can now keep in touch electronically, which is a heck of a lot cheaper.

There's a fine line between appreciation and brown nosing. I know too many buyers who really hate the random gifts as they make them feel uncomfortable. I only send out holiday goodies to buyers who also happen to be close friends.

Now, back in the day when we used to snail mail our demos, and way before the internet, I used to send out tons of promotions. I remember one time I had fortune cookies made that said, "You will soon be receiving Bob Bergen's demo who will be perfect for your next ad campaign." Then the next day they would get my demo. Got a ton of work from that one.

todd ellis · Posted: Mon Oct 10, 2016 6:44 am Post subject:

not a gift - but a fun promotion -

also in the pre-email days -- i bought a large box of mis-matched baby shoes at an auction - i sent them out with demos and a note tied to the tiny shoe saying "just trying to get my foot in the door" --- that one worked pretty well.
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Bob Bergen · CM Joined: 22 Apr 2008 Posts: 979

That's great, Todd!!

Tried something like that, which totally backfired! I was about 18, at my first vo agent's office. HUGE agency, with tons of agents/departments. I wanted to meet their theatrical agent. Thought this would be cleaver. I wear a prosthesis on my right foot. I walked up to this agent's office door, opened it a crack, removed my foot, tossed it in, and said, "Just want to get my foot in the door!"

.......did not get theatrical representation that day. And he slammed the door. It was awkward just getting my foot back!

dwpthe3rd · Posted: Mon Oct 10, 2016 7:39 am Post subject:

This ^^^^ is my first serious laugh of the day. Great story. Thank You!
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todd ellis · Posted: Mon Oct 10, 2016 8:44 am Post subject:

BUT - you got that great story to make us all happy!
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