Sometimes as entrepreneurs we get caught in our online bubble. It's easy to think that building your customer base is as easy as posting a blog, Tweeting, or sending an email blast. But if you aren't looking at offline ways to build your business, you are missing out. This is part 2 of a series on local marketing tactics for entrepreneurs. Building a business is all about creating relationships. When you meet someone, you want to make a great first impression. So, today we are talking about swag...you know, the tchotchkes, free goodies, and giveaways. People love getting free gifts. So let's look at how sharing a little love gift can go a long way to build your business.
Why Promo Products Work
- Promo products make people REMEMBER you! 89% of all people who have received a promotional item in the last 24 months can remember the name of the company associated with it.
Choosing the Right Promotional Items That Fit Your Business
When thinking of which promo item to choose it's easy to get lost in a sea of possibilities. Here's a few pointers to keep in mind. What is the cost per impression? In other words what is the cost of the item versus how long the item will last and be used by the person.
It's also important to find an item that's in alignment with your brand and message. For example a lighter would be fun to promote my book "Ignite your Impact" because it has a fire theme.
Finally, is the item useful? You don't want something cute that someone throws in the garbage because they really don't have any use for it. Investing in something that will be valued, used, and seen will give you more promotional bang for your buck.
To get advice for choosing the best promotional products, I turned to Dena Napoli of CDM Promotions that specializes in custom apparel and promotional items.
Dena shared the importance of choosing a gift that stands out. "By making your promotional items different, you grab the prospect's attention. If you give away something attention grabbing that they find valuable, they'll remember you and tell others about you."
Hot and Trending Ways for Entrepreneurs To Use Promotional Products
Purple Cow Your Business - If you truly want to set your business apart, it's important to give clients an unforgetable experience. A welcome gift to a high end client rolls out the red carpet to make them feel extra special.
Birthday Wishes - Wish your clients, friends, and colleagues a very special birthday. It's a great way to show you care. It can be something small that's easy to mail like an inspirational magnet or a bookmark. The fact that you remembered them on their special day will warm their heart.
High Five Your Team - When your virtual assistant, marketing team, or project manager goes the extra mile reward their efforts. A team member that feels appreciated will work harder and love being a valued part of your success.
Acknowledge your Partners - When people speak at your event, promote your book, or send you a referral, give them a gift to say thanks and how you appreciate them! It shows you really value their efforts.
Put a Smile on Attendee's Faces - When you have a seminar send participants home with some swag that keeps that workshop "high" rolling. A logo leather bound journal, bag, or water bottle makes them feel like they got more than promised at your event.
Make an Impact at Trade-shows - Gifts make a lasting impression on new prospects and help you stand out from the crowd. Plus, a really cool promotional item will drive people to your booth.
Raise the Bar on Affiliate Contests - Want to drive your new promotions sales through the roof? Offer a prize of a logo I-pad to your top selling affiliate. Have a second prize of a Selfie Stick to the next top three in sales. Affiliates will work hard with their eye on the prize.
Build Brand Loyalty with Your Tribe - When you build a rock star following, your fans love having awesome swag to show off their pride! Imagine sending a gift to your #1 fan and them taking a self showing off their new gift from you on Facebook! That's a quick way to go viral and build brand love.
Build Customer Relationships With Free Gifts - Promotional gifts make the deal even sweeter when customers buy a new product. Nothings more fun then getting a real gift in the mail. For online businesses, it builds a stronger connection with customers with a physical object that will remind them of your company!
When asked what promotional gifts are really hot now here's what Dena Napoli, the promotional item specialist, had to say "If you want to increase customer and employee loyalty think branded gifts. The right items can turn your customers into brand ambassadors. Some of the most popular items to put your logo on are mugs, selfie sticks, earbuds, pens, bags, USB drivers, water bottles, desk accessories, adult coloring books, and customized leather journals. Plus T-Shirts work as walking, moving, breathing billboards for your company."
Are you Ready to Get Your Swag On?
Promoting your brand with logo promotional items is a really effective way to build loyalty, visibility, and recognition.