You should consider the following:
1. Always keep your target audience in mind
Makes sure the gift selected is related to the business you are in. So when clients receive the gift and look at it in future, they will be reminded of you. Also consider the interest of the recipient. Make sure its something they like. If they like the gift, they will use it and have good feelings associated with your company. So do brainstorm with your colleagues or ask a gift consultant to recommend something based on your needs.
2. Be sure the message gets across to your audience
You have to ensure your brand is printed nicely and in accordance to your branding guideline. The message must also be clear and legible and bring across the most important thing you want to say to your clients. A promotional product that will speaks for itself will intrigue your potential clients and partners.
Good gift messages will communicate what you offer, the dna of your company and what clients can expect from you. A bad one can also make you look unprofessional. Thus, it is crucial that they have been vet before printing.
3. Your corporate gift product has to be outstanding
It’s not how much you pay but how meaningful and unique gift is. The gift should look special and unique so as to stand out from the crowd. Always try to do things that have the WOW impact and something that people will remember you for. Creativity is key, thus the corporate gift supplier you choose is of utmost importance as the value they create is the creativity and gift ideas and gift suggestions. When the gift is nice, people will use it and
wear it and be your brand ambassador.
4. Do the right quantity
It is important to do just the correct amount so as not to have excess lying around by ordering too much and wasting money and yet enough not to land in an awkward situation of not having enough to give to clients. Have a buffer of at least 10-20pcs each time you order.
5. Start with your colleagues
Good branding starts internally. Before even considering giving your clients gifts, you should first get your colleague to use your company branded mugs, wear your company promotional tees etc. That will promote company and brand loyalty and build strong bonds among colleagues. Healthy relationships between colleagues improve the company’s productivity and efficiency.
6. Existing Clients are the most important
It takes 10x more time and money to acquire a new client. So corporate gifts should be given to existing clients to convert them to true fans of your brand instead of solely focusing on getting new clients only.
7. Use corporate gifts to build rapport
Gifts can be used as a reason to meet up with clients so that there are opportunities to build rapport and relationship. It gives you the opportunity to make a visit to their office and share more about your company and brand.