Boost Your ROI with Flu-Fighting Promotions

More than any other seasonal ailment, the recent outbreak of H1N1 (also known as "swine flu") has captivated the world. The latest estimates are that millions have been infected and thousands have died in the United States alone. Whether or not you are personally concerned about the epidemic, the facts are undeniable - a good number of your clients and employees are. The term "swine flu" averages over 7 million searches per month on Google, and Flu vaccinations are selling out the same day registration opens. In fact, the high level of fear sweeping the nation has made it easier to get tickets to the Super Bowl than a place in line for a flu shot.

Regardless of your individual feelings, health issues are always a hot topic, and this scorching one in particular is not going away anytime soon. Whether you are scared silly, somewhat indifferent or just plain sick of hearing about it, the widespread frenzy does come with a shiny silver lining. The recent epidemic has given the general population a huge piece of common ground - and given you an enormous branding opportunity.

Here's what we all know - germs, bacteria and viruses can be spread from person to person by touching something infected and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Everyday products like an alcohol-based antibacterial spray can be used to kill these germs and prevent further infection. Now, taking this common knowledge and incorporating it into your marketing programs is a fail-safe way to make a positive impression on every person in your target audience.

For example, think about the events that take place at the average tradeshow. Participants walk up and down the isles, shaking hands with exhibitor after exhibitor. Their name badge is touched repeatedly as booth attendees scan the bar code and marketing materials are passed from person to person. And do not forget the necessity of using public restrooms! This unavoidable contact happens repeatedly each day and results in the exchange of thousands of germs.

Knowing this inevitable conclusion, imagine the reaction if your booth hands out pens with a sanitizer spray in the top half, instead of your standard logoed pens. On a day when participants are coming in close contact hundreds of strangers, your giveaway will be sought after by every attendee! In addition to having immediate functionality, a giveaway like this also makes a strong statement. With one simple and inexpensive promotional item, you instantly prove that you care about your clients/prospects, understand their needs and are prepared to give them solutions. Your investment is guaranteed to make an impact and yield a high return.

Germ battling products make great giveaways for internal promotions as well, as employers play an important role in protecting and keeping employees healthy. Giving office workers a desk pad or mouse pad with antimicrobial properties both shows the boss cares and creates awareness. One can also expect to see quick results from this type of program through a decrease in sick days taken.

These examples are just the tip of the iceberg. The number of promotional products available with antibacterial or antimicrobial properties is big and continuously growing. If you aren't taking advantage germ fighting products now, start thinking about ways they fit into your future plans. Both your clients and your bottom line will thank you!