A quick reminder for those teams out there planning event giveaways/handouts:
Just because it's free doesn't mean they'll keep it.
Your promo products aren't doing anything for your brand if they're in the trash, and that's where most will end up if you aren't careful.
Branded merchandise is capable of doing far more than just boosting awareness for your company; it's a way to express your brand's personality and values. That's why intention is so important for selecting the right merch, because if you don't give it much thought, neither will the people you're handing it out to.
So, when selecting your next giveaway item for an event, here are some tips to remember:
1. Quality over quantity wins. Every. Single. Time.
People can tell when a pen or water bottle is cheap just by looking at it, and when you put your logo on something cheap, that's the impression you're giving attendees.
This time around, consider investing in quality, even if it means having to order less. And, when in doubt, request samples when choosing your next giveaway for your event so you can test the quality out yourself. Chances are if you like it, so will your eventgoers.
Trust us, quality products are worth the splurge and won't end up in the landfills.
2. Practicality is key
Products that make our lives easier or that we use on a daily basis might not always make the biggest impression right away, but they sure do leave a lasting one.
We see a lot of vendors taking the time of year and circumstances into consideration for their giveaways. For example, springtime means umbrellas can come in handy last minute. If long-distance travel is involved, a branded phone charger may just be a lifesaver.
Ask yourself what you would've liked to have had last time you were at an event and make a list. More often than not, it's something you can put your logo on.
3. Make it an experience
When you tie a promo product with a memorable experience, eventgoers will not just recall your logo but also their interaction with you, strengthening your brand impression.
So, whether you pair your giveaway item with a game, use it to support a fundraiser or purposeful mission, or choose something humorous yet impactful for the merch itself, they aren't just walking away with a free item, you're giving them a fond memory.
There are so many creative products out there, so don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone or ask your distributor for unique ideas!
4. Subtle and stylish
The cold truth: if they don't work for you, they don't want a shirt with your logo plastered on it. Unless you're Nike or Adidas.
But, let's face it, most of us aren't high-end clothing brands. So, while you might enjoy a shirt with your logo on it, attendees won't. But...if you find a way to keep your branding subtle? You can give attendees their next favorite piece that they'll wear everywhere.
Fortunately, the promo industry is flexible and often thinks outside the box, offering a plethora of ways to decorate apparel in a not-so-in-your-face way, opening up a variety of options to sneakily include your brand. From customizing zippers, clothing tags, or even the inside of hoods, there are plenty of ways to add your brand without having it be distracting.
Selecting your giveaway item might not be rocket science, but it certainly isn't simple. It takes time, consideration, collaboration, and a lot of creativity. You're not just handing out a free item; you're giving someone the one connection to your brand. Depending on what you choose, your brand will either end up thrown away or making an impact on someone's life, even if in a small way.