Everybody loves free stuff. No matter how successful we are, the idea of getting something for nothing just has a way of promoting goodwill between businesses and customers. There doesn’t have to be a perfect time to use promotional products; sometimes when a customer least expects it, your business or service gets clearly noticed as opposed to sending out small gifts during the holiday season when they are easily overlooked.
I see promotional items as a good marketing strategy, and a great way to say thank you to customers for their business, trust and confidence. The gifts don’t have to be expensive, but they should have a highly perceived value to the client because you are letting them know that your success is due to their patronage, and you are thinking about them. These gifts are good for recognizing your existing clients, but can also serve to bring in new customers.
How about sending or giving out items season specific, perhaps during Thanksgiving, beginning of summer, or even back to school? Send a small promotional item on a customer’s birthday; it goes a long way when reinforcing loyalty. New Year’s calendars are popular gifts, but to make your calendar stand out, why not make it an appointment calendar? If your location is climate specific, winter time would be an excellent time to send out coffee travel mugs or sweatshirts; all with your logo. Summer season might call for towels and sun hats. Sports enthusiasts might appreciate items like golf balls, bench cushions, sweat towels; all can be personalized with your brand.
Look for opportunities to get your company name and contact information out at all times, and while you are thanking your customers, your name is on their notepad, their pens, their mugs, water bottles and key rings. You can mail the products to your customers, or a cashier can give out a free product to each person. You can even send out coupons and require a customer come in and get personally thanked and then receive their free gift.
And here is one more suggestion to company owners that will ultimately help your customers and positively enhance the customer service experience. Don’t forget to thank your employees too. Customer service is a multifaceted approach, and when you use respectful behavior towards your employees and treat them with dignity and kindness, your employees will treat your customers the same way. Find small promotional gifts of appreciation for your employees; thank them for being loyal, and thank them for helping you to succeed.
photo credit: RobeRt Vega
