Blog Post | Apr 11, 2023
When It Comes to Giving Swag, How Personal is Too Personal?
Even though we all want to send swag that surprises and delights recipients, it may not be a good idea to gift anything that feels too personal or familiar. This article covers the potential pitfalls of going too personal and offers suggestions for what to give, instead.
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As marketers, we all want to give swag or corporate gifts that surprise and delight recipients. And, as human beings, we all know what it’s like to receive a gift that just didn’t fit us—sometimes literally, such as getting a piece of clothing that’s too big or too small; or an iPhone case when you use an Android; or something we’d never use, such as golf accessories if you’ve never played the game.
Further, as marketers, we’re all familiar with the benefits of personalization, so it seems like we should give swag customized to the recipient.
However, when it comes to putting a personal touch on what you give, there are lines you shouldn’t cross. Here’s how to give gifts that strike the right notes.
Exercise caution and always err on the side of the professional. Keep in mind that you’re giving a gift on behalf of your company, not you, so it should portray your company in the best light. Don’t send gag gifts. And for obvious reasons, stay away from anything political, no matter how well you know the recipient.
Don’t get too snoopy with social media. It’s tempting to seek out your client’s personal social media feeds to understand what kind of gifts would resonate with them. Using social media this way is still a huge gray area in a professional context, and even if you’re trying to be congenial, it can seem invasive and overly familiar to use this approach.
Send the right message. You can be creative with your swag, but there should still be a match between your business and the reason for the gift. If you work for a non-profit, avoid items that look lavish or luxurious. Conversely, if your company specializes in high-end offerings or serves an affluent clientele, the swag doesn’t need to be expensive, but it should convey premium quality.
What to send instead. If you’re reading this and thinking, “Well, what do I send?” the answer is, we have hundreds of creative ideas. Here are just a few of them.
High-quality custom drinkware and a coffee chain gift card. Together, this can be the centerpiece for a clever mailing that can help you get your foot in the door with a prospect or thank an MVP employee for their work.
Travel-related swag is always a hit. Sturdy, rugged backpacks and branded attaches are always in demand. We have options for every price point! For a truly VIP package, fill it with tech essentials (e.g., chargers or power banks) or self-care items like branded hand sanitizer and lip balm.
One-size-fits-all accessories like socks, caps and even umbrellas. These items are extremely practical and, with some creative design, we can turn them into colorful, cherished tchotchkes that will hold their appeal for years.
Contact us today to learn more about promotional items that meet your specific needs and fit your budget!
Further, as marketers, we’re all familiar with the benefits of personalization, so it seems like we should give swag customized to the recipient.
However, when it comes to putting a personal touch on what you give, there are lines you shouldn’t cross. Here’s how to give gifts that strike the right notes.
Exercise caution and always err on the side of the professional. Keep in mind that you’re giving a gift on behalf of your company, not you, so it should portray your company in the best light. Don’t send gag gifts. And for obvious reasons, stay away from anything political, no matter how well you know the recipient.
Don’t get too snoopy with social media. It’s tempting to seek out your client’s personal social media feeds to understand what kind of gifts would resonate with them. Using social media this way is still a huge gray area in a professional context, and even if you’re trying to be congenial, it can seem invasive and overly familiar to use this approach.
Send the right message. You can be creative with your swag, but there should still be a match between your business and the reason for the gift. If you work for a non-profit, avoid items that look lavish or luxurious. Conversely, if your company specializes in high-end offerings or serves an affluent clientele, the swag doesn’t need to be expensive, but it should convey premium quality.
What to send instead. If you’re reading this and thinking, “Well, what do I send?” the answer is, we have hundreds of creative ideas. Here are just a few of them.
Travel-related swag is always a hit. Sturdy, rugged backpacks and branded attaches are always in demand. We have options for every price point! For a truly VIP package, fill it with tech essentials (e.g., chargers or power banks) or self-care items like branded hand sanitizer and lip balm.
One-size-fits-all accessories like socks, caps and even umbrellas. These items are extremely practical and, with some creative design, we can turn them into colorful, cherished tchotchkes that will hold their appeal for years.
Contact us today to learn more about promotional items that meet your specific needs and fit your budget!