I know what you're thinking. Mirrors? Really? The answer is yes. Why? Because when it comes to networking, you've got to look the part.

I could also use this argument for promotional apparel, but if we're talking about items that you want recipients to use repeatedly, to have repeated access to your logo, promotional mirrors are the perfect bet. They will stand out on trade show tables in booths. And everyone will take them for one simple reason: who doesn't need a mirror? When trade events come up and you spend the majority of our day walking around and greeting people you want to be sure that you look presentable. Is your hair looking nice or could you stand to run a comb through it? Ladies, is that lipstick applied properly or have you got some smudges? Are there remnants of that sandwich you ate quite quickly still hanging out between your two front teeth? By having a mirror it can answer each and every one of those questions and ensure that you look your very best as you meet new clients and prospects.

If there's one piece of advice that any promotional consultant will give you regarding trade show giveaways it's this: give people something they'll use. The first vendor on the trade show floor or the show sponsor who's responsible for giving out the trade show bags is usually a very lucky individual because their logo will be seen throughout the entire show. As people are walking the aisles, they'll be toting that bag. But what do you do if you can't afford a show sponsor position or if you've been designated a location that's not near the entrance? You go with the old faithful rule and you give the people something they'll use. And that something is promotional hand sanitizer.

Trade shows are meant to be all about networking. If you're doing it right, you're chatting people up, shaking people's hands and kissing people on the cheek. And while you may be getting some fabulous new business from all that schmoozing, you're also be picking up some not so welcome "contacts." Germs are everywhere and with the flu more prevalent than it has been in quite some time (thank you H1N1), it's definitely on people's minds. By choosing to give out promotional hand sanitizer, especially one that can be easily clipped to a trade show badge or a bag, you're giving them something that they can use. Sure you can spend thousands of dollars on some amazing giveaway that lights up, flips and draws massive attention to itself, but it won't be reached for time and time again during that trade show.