Scratch pads and pens are nice however what I really want is a vendor who is reliable, honest and is looking out for my client's best interests.

Michael Thornton The only people who make money with these items are the people who sell them. Not likely to do business just because they give me a pen.

Our vendors tend to drop off sweets.  They know where my heart is 

We use the useful things (pens, notepads) but it doesn't impact our likeliness of using the vendor in the future.

I use the scratch pads, but I must admit I don't do business with anyone just because they provide pads and pens.

Good morning Michael. A complete waste of time and money.

To do business with them, i need to know them, what they offer, what theior work ethic is, what the cost is and how can it benefit myself or my clients. I hate sales calls but would much rather talk to them in person. For me teh swag i like is the NFL or MLB team calender magnets, always need pens and my favorite was the hand sanitizer.

the stuff they drop off isn't going to make them my first phone call.... I never use those dropped off items....I call those who have done a good job....

There is one mortgage company that does have excellent pen's but I do use them.

Hey Mike, good question.  I like the free pens.

Those who drop off pens, scratch pads and other junk are demonstrating how very little thought they put into this attempt at growing their business. This suggest to me there will be other areas where little thought is demonstrated also......at the agents expense.

What problem are you solving for me?
If you can not tell me, in a manner that gets my attention, then no solutions I need are being offered. 

I use a pen every day. I NEVER read what is on the pen.

sorry Michael - not at all - I don't even know if it is worth it to us to get on the refrigerator with our clients - but stuff from vendors- not at all

Scratch pads and pens work best for me.  I also like for them to leave fliers and business cards.  It keeps them in my mind

Hi Michael -- I appreciate the pens especially as they seem to disappear often.  I don't think it increases the likelihood of my doing business with any particular vendor though.

I love the free stuff and it certainly makes me notice them. It gets their foot in the door. That doesn't mean I'll use them. What do I really like? Key chain USB flash drives. Since they are a little more expensive and I only get one every now and again, they make more of an impression. What do I use most? Pens, but they are all over the place so do not make much of an impression. I almost expect them like from my escrow company, for example.

None and not

Use them all the time.

I appreciate the pens, notepads, calendars, and most of the things that are dropped off.

Michael,

I appreciate the scratch pads and pens; most are given at educational classes at the board. I do pay attention to their location and services in the event I might need them in the future. 1% chance:)

Tchotchkes don't induce me to do business with anyone - but I do enjoy a good "gimme" pen.

None  Vendors have no interest in my clienta.  Over the past three + decadesd I have listed many homes with a competitirs calendar on the fridge dooe

I like the scratchpads the best.  Though, I have no intention of doing business with them because they left me a gift.

I'll use the pens, if they are good I'll use their service but them dropping off stuff does not make me do it!

Very few vendors drop off pens, pads, food and similar marketing materials at my office.  Usually, brochures are dropped off, which are much more useful as they go in my supplier folders.

Michael Thornton - I love the goodies, however, I prefer to work with someone who I have relationship. Now if there is no one in that category, they surely get a chance - so goodies are not wasted for sure.