Pointing out swag? Swag that tells the tale of your brand? Listen: almost as important as perfecting your elevator pitch is. You cannot just slap a logo on a mug and call it good for business. The branded products are loudspeakers. They say who you are, even when you are nowhere near having a discussion. But shopping for those items won’t mean anything unless every piece fits the vision you wish to create.
Allow us to open this widely. Ask yourself, first, what are your brand values before you start chasing glittering objects? If you live sustainably, avoid throwing away lanyards composed of single-use plastics. Sounds clear-cut, but many have missed this memo and continue to name the very thing they oppose. Not that you would find a green brand distributing gasoline-scented candles. Sliché? Surely. But quite accurate!
One sensible option is to list your guiding ideas. Do you value innovation? Perhaps your organization finds spark in inventiveness. Are you particularly proud of dependability? Your promotional materials should reflect those qualities, even in minute form. Think about tech firms; they often rely on devices that connect us: Bluetooth speakers, wireless chargers, smart laptops, and even AR puzzles. That cries “modern solutions for today’s world,” all before a discussion ever begins.
There then is the tactile component. People remember what they touch and hold; studies indicate that continuous use of branded goods increases our recall by 85%. Now bring water bottles, pens, or t-shirts that last. Hint: almost every time longevity beats novelty. Would you rather someone to use an eye-catching but worthless paperweight for two days, tops or wear your hoodie for two years? The response is as clear as day.
Let us go specific with sources. People notice where things originate from. Did you know that seventy percent of buyers prefer goods produced following moral guidelines? The ASI 2023 Ad Specialty Impressions Study provides that figure. Thus, moral vendors count. Although they are rare, search for certifications in Fair Trade, GOTS, even B Corp. to get watertight guarantees. A small amount of research here will help your reputation.
Furthermore demanding serious consideration are color and design. These are languages, not only images. Abstract designs and loud hues direct invention. Understated graphics and classic pallets scream dependability. If your vibe is lighthearted, rely on clever graphics or maybe something tongue-in-chek. Steer clear of boilerplate design. People relate with emotions and tales, after all.