Universal Appeal

There's a reason why more than a billion dollars worth of promotional desk and office products are sold every year: They're effective. From sticky notes and pens to journals and mugs, the items we use during every workday are the perfect vehicles for promotional advertising.

With the vast number of items on the market today (read: thousands upon thousands), how do you choose which ones are best? Beyond fitting the scope, theme and budget, the item your client selects must fit the personal preferences of the recipients. Being audience-centric is essential if you want your product to capture that coveted desktop real estate.

To make the selection process just a bit easier (and more fun!), we've come up with five personality types and showcased items that will appeal to each of them. Some are fresh and different; others are new twists on old favorites. Whether you choose one of these for your next promo or merely use this story as a conversation starter on your next sales call, one thing is for sure: Desk and office products are ideal carriers for advertising messaging because of their universal appeal.

Modern Minimalist

Sleek. Clean. Stark. The modern minimalist's office may be sparse in terms of personal effects, but it's rich in style. These spaces are comprised of clean architectural lines highlighted with stainless steel, chrome or other metals—all in a neutral color palette (black, white, gray, beige, brown) with pops of bold color. Since clutter is the enemy to the modern minimalist's style aesthetics, choose products that combine form with function.

Digital Photo Frame from Hirsch Gift Inc.

Why We Love it: Having photos of friends and family warms up a modern office. Plus, with the ability to upload up to six photos, this is the only frame a minimalist needs.