The power of company swag — the branded merchandise that companies give out as gifts — is often underestimated. However, when done right, it can be a valuable tool for boosting employee morale, fostering a strong company culture, and promoting brand loyalty. Here, we explore why company swag matters for employees and provide tips on how to get it right.
What is a Company Swag?
Company swag, also known as promotional merchandise, refers to branded items that businesses give away to their employees, clients, or event attendees. Some says, swag even stands for "Stuff We All Get". This might include things like t-shirts, pens, mugs, hats, tote bags, water bottles, and tech accessories, all bearing the company's logo or name.
Company swag serves multiple purposes. It can be used as a marketing tool, since the branded items act as a form of advertising. It can also help to create a sense of unity among employees or serve as a token of appreciation. When well-chosen and high-quality, company swag can increase brand recognition and foster positive associations with the company.
Importance of Company Swag for Employees
Enhances Employee Engagement
Company swag can play a significant role in improving employee engagement. Employees love receiving gifts, especially ones they can use regularly. When these items are branded, they serve as a constant reminder of the company, fostering a sense of belonging and boosting morale.
Acts as a Token of Appreciation
Swag acts as a tangible symbol of a company's appreciation for its employees. A well-thought-out piece of swag can make employees feel valued and acknowledged, which can positively impact their job satisfaction and productivity levels.
Promotes Brand Identity
Branded merchandise is an effective way to strengthen and promote your company's identity. It reinforces your brand values not just to the employees, but to everyone they interact with while using the swag.
Boosts Team Spirit
Company swag, such as matching T-shirts or coffee mugs, can enhance team spirit and unity. It gives employees a sense of being part of a community, which can lead to more collaborative and efficient teamwork.
How to Get Company Swag Right
Know Your Employees
To ensure your swag hits the mark, you must understand your employees' preferences and needs. Conduct surveys or have informal conversations to get insights into the kind of items they would find useful and appealing.
Choose Quality Over Quantity
Always prioritize the quality of your swag. A few high-quality items will leave a better impression than a multitude of cheap, poorly made ones. Quality merchandise not only lasts longer but also reflects positively on your brand's image.
Incorporate Your Brand
Your company swag should represent your brand well. Use your company colors, logo, and tagline creatively. However, avoid over-branding; subtly branded items are often more tasteful and well-received.
Opt for Useful Items
Choose items that your employees will use regularly. Think of everyday items like reusable water bottles, notebooks, or tech accessories. The more your employees use these items, the more they engage with your brand.
Keep It Varied
Offering a variety of swag items will cater to the diverse tastes and preferences within your workforce. This will increase the chances of your employees finding something they really like and will use.
Personalize Where Possible
Personalization can make swag feel extra special. Adding an employee's name or initials to an item can give it a personal touch and show that you've put thought into the gift.
Products that Can Be Given Out as Swag
Companies can choose from a wide array of products to give out as swag. The best choices are often items that are useful and will be used often, as this increases brand visibility. Here are some popular options:
- Apparel: T-shirts, hats, and hoodies are common swag items. Apparel is useful, and it also turns the wearer into a walking advertisement for your brand.
- Drinkware: Branded mugs, water bottles, and tumblers are practical items that get used regularly, keeping your brand top of mind.
- Tote Bags: A reusable tote bag can be used for everything from grocery shopping to carrying gym clothes, offering great exposure for your brand.
- Tech Gadgets: Items like USB drives, bluetooth speakers, wireless charging pad, and webcam covers are appreciated by today's tech-savvy audiences.
- Office Supplies: Notebooks, pens, sticky notes, and desk organizers are useful items that will keep your brand visible in the workplace.
- Health and Wellness Items: With the increased focus on health and wellbeing, items like yoga mats, fitness bands, hand sanitizers, and reusable face masks are becoming popular swag items.
- Eco-friendly Items: Environmentally-friendly products like reusable straws, bamboo cutlery sets, and seed packets can help showcase your company's commitment to sustainability.
- Personalized Items: Adding a personal touch to swag, such as including the recipient's name or initials, can make the item feel special and appreciated.
How Can You Get the Best Company Swag Ideas for Employees?
Company swag is more than just free stuff. It’s a way to show your appreciation, boost your morale, and promote your brand. But how can you get the best company swag ideas for employees? How can you make sure that your swag is useful, relevant, and memorable? That’s where Qstomize comes in. Qstomize is the ultimate online platform for creating custom swag and other products. With Qstomize, you can:
Choose from a wide range of high-quality products, such as t-shirts, mugs, tote bags, and more
- Upload your own logo, design, or image, or choose from thousands of templates
- Preview and edit your custom swag before placing an order
- Order as many or as few custom swag as you want, with no minimum order required
- Enjoy fast shipping, low prices, and 100% satisfaction guarantee
So don’t settle for boring or generic swag. Create your own custom swag today with Qstomize and impress your employees with your creativity and generosity.