Everyone loves a good swag item. Even those who don’t usually care for them will grab something cool from your table. But how do you ensure that the giveaways, rewards, incentives, and merch you hand out are the ones people actually want?
Let’s start with the basics. What exactly is swag? It’s anything physical that can carry your logo or message.
Think of it as something people interact with using their senses—like a comfy T-shirt with your design, a box of delicious custom cookies, a sleek gadget that fits perfectly in a travel bag, or a scented candle paired with a branded matchbook.
These items all have the power to communicate your brand in a tangible way.
Maybe you currently have a closet full of promo gear and are wondering if it’s just a waste of money or if there’s a way to make it work harder for you.
Good news—it’s all about being strategic with what you have and making smarter choices moving forward.
Here are a few tips to maximize your ROI on swag.
Bundle Items for Greater Impact
Don’t just hand out random stuff. Pair items together that make sense and complement each other.
If you’ve got awesome pens, throw in a nice notebook with a pen loop.
Handing out sunglasses? Add a branded eyeglass sleeve that doubles as a cleaning cloth.
Got tech gear? A branded travel case makes the item feel more premium and ensures it gets used.
By putting together collections or kits, you create a more thoughtful, practical gift that people are likely to keep and use.
Use a Theme or Color Palette
A well-thought-out theme can make your swag more memorable and impactful.
Whether for an event, trade show, or promotion, think about the vibe you want to convey and choose colors and products that fit. Dark colors are sleek and professional, bright colors are fun and energetic, and light colors are calm and reflective.
Once you’ve picked your theme, choose products that fit the tone. For example, if you’re at a trade show, interactive items like a mini putting green or a corn hole set can attract people to your booth.
Pair those with practical swag like golf tees, branded towels, or ball markers. Make it a complete experience that aligns with your message. The goal is for people to remember your booth—and your message.
Go for Quality
We all see the same old promo items over and over. Sure, they’re useful, but if you want to stand out, you need to go the extra mile.
Opt for higher-end or well-designed products. This doesn’t always mean the most expensive—it could be a trendy design, a thoughtful color, or a cool, retail-quality item with your logo.
If you choose quality items, people are more likely to use them daily, which means your brand gets seen more often.
Keep It Subtle
Sometimes, less is more. Instead of plastering your logo in giant letters, take a cue from European swag and keep the branding subtle. Use a sleek, attractive design that incorporates your logo rather than making it the focal point.
Think about products people want because they’re beautiful, like a high-quality water bottle with a minimalist logo or a finely crafted leather wallet with a small, engraved logo.
When your swag looks good and fits seamlessly into people’s lives, they’re more likely to use it.
Let Your Products Tell a Story
Believe it or not, objects have the power to tell stories. When you hand someone a branded item, they’re not just seeing a logo—they’re also thinking about how that item fits into their life and what it says about them.
For example, a luxury watch or a stylish, high-quality backpack says something about sophistication, while a simple pen might convey practicality.
When selecting promo items, consider how they reflect your brand’s identity and message. What story does your item tell about your company?
Ensure that your products align with the image you want to project and that they resonate with your audience. Remember, people choose items that make them feel good about themselves, so your swag should do the same.
Work with a Professional
It may sound like a sales pitch, but working with a promotional product expert can really boost the effectiveness of your swag strategy.
A professional can help you avoid costly mistakes—like ordering too many items or picking low-quality products. They’ll also provide creative insights to ensure your gear aligns with your brand’s goals.
They’ll also guide you through the process of choosing the best products and customizing them to make the most impact.
So, if you’re planning a corporate event or looking for the perfect employee giveaway, don’t hesitate to reach out. A little expert advice can go a long way in making sure your promo gear gives you the best return on investment.
Ready to take your swag to the next level? Let’s chat!
The Righteous team is here to help with creative ideas and high-quality products to make your next event unforgettable.
