Meeting new people represents a difficult challenge, debilitating phobia or nerve-racking anxiety for the majority of people in the United States. Our hands sweat, stomach twists with summersaults and mouths go dry, but why? It's not the people that bug us, it's the fact that our first impressions make the biggest difference and have the most impact. In the business world, it's not any different. Businesses have to impress their customers and fellow competitors, also.

So why not squash some of that fear and turn it into something that will wow and impress your clients right off the bat. Design a promotional product that will surely make a lasting first impression of you and your company. After all, as Georgia Southern University study found, 52 percent of people who have received a promotional product not only did business with the company, but also showed a positive perception of the brand as a whole.

Whether it's meeting a new client and costumer base or at the introduction of a new product, service, strategic message or brand to your audience, including a promotional product in a marketing plan can help create a lasting memory, connection and relationship in the future. A recent study done by L.J Market Research found that most people who have received a promotional product in the past 12 months have kept it in their possession for more than two years. In two years a promotional product can increase your sales, concrete a solid relationship and prove that giving a promotional product gives the great first impression.

When you make a positive first impression, you can pretty much guarantee that your audience will remember you in a positive light. This means they will most likely chose to do business with you in the future. Promotional products encourage this by radiating a sense of comfort and welcome with your business. The survey from L.J Marketing also noted that 52 percent of people reported a more favorable impression of the company after receiving a promotional product. With the statistics reporting such a high percentage of happy and impressed people, using promotional products as a compliment to an introductory campaign is a no-brainer.

Promotional products when tied to an introduction of any product, service, client, campaign, etc. can build a strong and healthy relationship between company and customer. A good first impression basically makes creating this desired relationship an easy reality. This great first impression followed closely by a solid relationship proves time and again, that people are willing to put their money and trust into companies that show they care.

Promotional products not only take the awkward and tense moments out of making a good first impression, they also solidify a strong relationship and put more money in your pocket. So next time you need to bite the bullet, introduce yourself and your company and make that once in a lifetime impression, design a promotional product campaign that will for sure impress your audience. It will be like love at first sight.