The Benefits of Employee Branded Merchandise: Boosting Morale and Brand Ambassadorship
In today’s competitive business landscape, companies are constantly seeking ways to enhance employee satisfaction and foster a positive work environment. One effective yet often overlooked strategy is providing employees with branded merchandise. These items can range from apparel and accessories to tech gadgets and office supplies, all branded with the company’s logo or slogan. Here’s how investing in branded merchandise can significantly boost morale and turn your staff into enthusiastic brand ambassadors.
1. Enhancing Employee Morale
Recognition and Appreciation: Branded merchandise serves as a tangible form of recognition and appreciation. When employees receive these items, it sends a clear message that their efforts are valued. This sense of appreciation can boost their morale and motivate them to perform even better. It could be a small gesture, like a branded cupcake, or an item with a greater perceived value such as a powerbank.
Sense of Belonging: Branded merchandise can foster a sense of belonging and unity within the team. Wearing or using items that feature the company’s branding creates a shared identity among employees, making them feel more connected to the organisation and their colleagues. That might be a branded hoodie or a printed laptop bag.
Increased Job Satisfaction: Regularly distributing branded items, whether as part of onboarding packages, holiday gifts, or rewards for achievements, can contribute to overall job satisfaction. Employees who feel valued and appreciated are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work.
2. Promoting Brand Ambassadorship
Brand Visibility: When employees use or wear branded merchandise outside the workplace, they inadvertently promote the company. This increased visibility can help attract potential clients, partners, and even future employees. Your staff become walking billboards, spreading brand awareness wherever they go. Think about the design of items you gift them to make them desirable beyond the workplace.
Positive Word-of-Mouth: Employees who are proud of their company and feel valued are more likely to speak positively about their workplace to friends, family, and social networks. This word-of-mouth promotion can enhance the company’s reputation and attract top talent.
Social Media Engagement: Branded merchandise often encourages social media engagement. Employees might share photos of their swag on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn, further amplifying the brand’s reach. Encouraging such posts with hashtags or social media campaigns can create a buzz and engage a wider audience. This could be anything from custom Christmas jumpers to a brainteaser puzzle to a plush company mascot.
3. Strengthening Company Culture
Unified Team Spirit: Distributing branded items can reinforce company values and culture. For instance, items with motivational quotes or core values can remind employees of the company’s mission and their role in achieving it.
Event and Team Building: Branded merchandise can be an integral part of company events, team-building activities, and corporate retreats. Matching t-shirts or accessories can build camaraderie and create memorable experiences that strengthen team bonds.
Promote Wellbeing: Wellbeing campaigns help to champion a positive work environment and promotional merchandise serves as an effective ongoing reminder that lasts beyond the campaign. For example, staying hydrated with branded water bottles.
Welcoming New Hires: Onboarding packages that include branded merchandise can make new hires feel welcome and part of the team from day one. This initial gesture can set a positive tone and help new employees quickly integrate into the company culture.
4. Cost-Effective Marketing Tool
Dual Purpose: Branded merchandise serves a dual purpose by boosting internal morale and acting as an external marketing tool. It’s a cost-effective way to achieve both goals simultaneously, providing a high return on investment.
Long-Term Benefits: Unlike traditional advertising, which can have a limited lifespan, branded merchandise offers long-term exposure. High-quality items like jackets, umbrellas, backpacks, or tech accessories can be used for years, continually promoting the brand. We heard from a client recently who still uses one of our branded umbrellas 10 years later!
Investing in employee branded merchandise is more than just a perk; it’s a strategic move that can enhance employee morale, promote brand ambassadorship, and strengthen company culture. By providing your team with branded merchandise, you not only show appreciation for their hard work but also turn them into passionate advocates for your brand. So, go ahead and boost your company’s spirit and visibility with some well-chosen products!
As always, if you would like some assistance with selecting the best merchandise for your brand please reach out to our team of friendly advisors who will be happy to help.
