Despite all the digital calendar options, the sales of paper planners, appointment books and other calendars are still on the rise. Why? Because tangible paper calendars actually offer multiple benefits, including a reduction in digital fatigue, improved memory (from the act of writing things down), and easier big-picture planning.
Plus, when it comes to giveaways, calendars are a great choice for many reasons (PDF). For one, almost 90% of people find them to be useful. And 76% of consumers prominently display promotional calendars in their home or office. In addition, people use custom promotional calendars for an average of 12 months. That means a relatively small investment can earn your brand 365 days of impressions.
From paper calendar giveaways to branded game-day schedules to event details printed on unconventional materials, here’s how to make an impression every day of the year.
Stick with the classics
Classic paper calendars never go out of style. Plus, there are so many options! Start by finding the one that fits your audience’s needs and matches your messaging.
When people think of calendar giveaways, the first thing that comes to mind is usually the standard stapled or spiral-bound wall calendar. Virtually every home, classroom or office has something like the Welcome Home Calendar hanging on a wall or laying on a desk for easy reference. Wall calendars are available in almost any theme you can imagine, including landscapes, hobbies, animals and much more. The Scenic Inspirations Calendar is full of colorful landscapes, and the spiral binding provides a neat, clean look, which is ideal for a front office or reception area.
If you want a classic calendar with a slight twist, consider a magnetic or sticky calendar. For quick reference, the Bic® 20 mil Calendar Magnet features your full-color messaging, provides a year-at-a-glance view, and is perfect for refrigerators, file cabinets or any other magnetic surface. Do your employees or clients spend lots of time in a car? Choose the Peel-n-Stick Calendar with Business Card Holder. The calendar sticks to a dashboard and includes a business card pocket.
TIP: If you have clients or employees that speak another language, give them a calendar printed in their native tongue.
Impress clients with problem-solving calendars
One of the easiest ways to turn a first-time customer into a repeat customer is to solve that customer’s problem. Calendar giveaways can help with that.
When they need to reference dates without switching programs or opening a new window on their computer, consider a Removable Computer Calendar. The year-at-a-glance calendar can be stuck directly onto their keyboard, making it easy to check dates while typing. At the end of the year, it’s easy to remove.
During planning or brainstorming sessions, the Dry Erase Weekly Calendar offers plenty of room to make notes and jot down special appointments. Ultra-removable adhesive on the back means this handy giveaway is ready for any impromptu meeting space—just find a smooth surface and start brainstorming.
If staying organized is a challenge, check out weekly or monthly planners. The Classic Monthly Planner is an ideal way to help them stay on track.
For those super planners on your contact list, help them schedule ahead for months or even years with calendars that feature long-term views. The Commercial 3-Month Wall Planner, for example, displays three months—with space for writing—on every page.
Have fun with schedules
Pocket schedules and planners make fun and useful calendar gifts.
With every race or game, sports schedules will remind recipients of your brand. With options for football and racing, you can put the whole season—and your logo—in their pocket. For your hometown team, create personalized schedules to hand out at events or school functions. The Basketball Sports Schedule Magnet can be customized with your team name, logo and game dates.
Academic planners, such as the Hard Cover Planner, not only help keep classes and assignments straight, but they also include helpful resources, holidays, time zone maps, and space for personal information. These kinds of planners make valuable giveaways for students of any age.
Try paperless calendars
Don’t overlook these unexpected calendars—paper not included. There are a number of creative ways to promote your events.
For example, print event details on cloth items, such as:
- Concert dates on a comfortable Gildan® 6 oz. Ultra Cotton Pocket T-Shirt
- League game days on a Microfiber Golf Towel
- Local park event dates on a Hanky Bandana
- Farmers market dates on a Cotton Grocery Tote
In fact, important dates or event details can be printed on just about any promotional item. For example, imprint training dates on the front cover of the Composition Notebook to help motivate your team for success. Or have your calendar of events printed on Pulpboard Coasters.
Save the date with custom promotional calendars
Calendar giveaways can make an impression every day. Choose one of these practical gifts to leave a personalized message year round.