Conferences are held every year, every month and every week within Australia. Conferences are an invaluable source of opportunity from networking through to knowledge transfer and idea generation. The beauty of conferences is that they are useful in almost all industries and all occupations.  From small local businesses to multi national businesses you can be assured that there would be a committee or a trade group that would be holding a conference. Custom branded products from notebooks to lanyards are a common sight at conferences and have grown to be an important part of executing a well-received event. Read on to find out more about using these products to enhance your next conference.

What is a Conference?

A conference is a gathering of professionals to discuss, explore, and exchange knowledge within a specific field or industry. Unlike trade shows, which primarily focus on showcasing and selling products, conferences emphasise learning, networking, and sharing of best practices. While trade shows often feature interactive exhibits and product demonstrations, conferences are characterised by keynote speeches, expert panels, and workshops.

Although both events facilitate connections and growth, conferences prioritise intellectual enrichment, whereas trade shows emphasise commercial opportunities. Attending either event can yield valuable insights, depending on your objectives and industry interests. One important part of the conference experience is receiving functional mementos upon attending, items which will serve to remind you of all you've learned when the event is over, but also serve to facilitate your enrichment while you're at the conference.

Promotional Gifts to Suit Conferences

Promotional gifts, indispensable in creating an engaging conference experience, leave lasting impressions on attendees. Suitable options include reusable tote bags, showcasing your brand while championing eco-friendliness. Branded notebooks and pens, practical and useful, are perfect companions for note-taking during events. USB drives, with your logo, offer ample storage for digital resources. 

You could also consider offering customised water bottles or reusable coffee cups, as sustainable alternatives to single-use options. Incorporating these thoughtful promotional items ensures memorable conference experiences, while subtly reinforcing your brand identity in the minds of participants.

Expert Tips for Maximising Promotional Gifts at Conferences

In the bustling world of Aussie conferences, standing out is essential. A smart way to make a lasting impression is through the clever use of promotional gifts. Here are five tips to ensure your giveaways are memorable and effective.

Choose the Right Items

Select gifts that are relevant to your brand and appealing to your target audience. Think about practicality, quality, and the potential for daily use. A functional and high-quality item, such as promotional drink bottles or personalised USB sticks, will leave a positive impression.

Keep it Eco-Friendly

Showcase your company's commitment to sustainability by opting for eco-friendly promotional products. Examples include reusable bags, recycled notepads, or biodegradable pens. Not only will this enhance your brand image, but it will also appeal to environmentally conscious delegates.

Personalise Your Gifts

Customise items with your company logo, colours, and tagline. This will reinforce brand recognition and create a sense of unity. Be mindful not to overdo it; subtlety is key when it comes to personalisation.

Offer a Variety

Cater to different preferences by providing an assortment of promotional items. This will increase the likelihood of delegates finding something they like, and it will encourage them to visit your stand, increasing engagement and conversation.

Plan Your Distribution Strategy

Ensure your giveaways are distributed effectively by planning ahead. Consider the best method for your conference – it could be at your booth, during a networking session, or as part of a raffle or competition. Be creative and think about ways to make your promotional gifts an exciting and memorable part of the event.

Author Profile: Yoshe Foy

Yoshe is a Cubic Promote’s content manager and she has worked with promotional products for almost a decade. Yoshe is full of great product ideas, she knows what's new on the market and how to use promotional products to boost your brand visibility. Visit her on LinkedIn. or contact her via yoshe@cubicpromote.com.au