How do you choose the right type of branded merchandise for different events and audiences?

1 Know your goals

Before you order any branded merchandise, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve with it. Do you want to attract new customers, reward existing ones, or boost your brand image? Do you want to create a buzz, a memory, or a call to action? Different goals require different types of products, so make sure you align your merchandise with your marketing objectives.

2 Know your audience

Another key factor to consider is who will receive your branded merchandise. You need to understand their needs, preferences, and expectations. What kind of products would they value, use, and keep? What kind of message would resonate with them? How can you make your merchandise relevant, useful, and appealing to them? For example, if your audience is young and tech-savvy, you might want to choose products that are innovative, trendy, and functional, such as wireless chargers, earbuds, or smartwatches.

3 Know your event

The type of event you are attending or hosting also influences your choice of branded merchandise. You need to consider the size, location, theme, and purpose of the event. How many people will attend? How much space will you have? What kind of atmosphere will there be? How will you distribute your merchandise? For example, if you are exhibiting at a trade show, you might want to choose products that are easy to carry, display, and hand out, such as pens, magnets, or stickers. If you are organizing a conference, you might want to choose products that are more premium, personalized, and memorable, such as notebooks, mugs, or tote bags.

4 Know your budget

Of course, you also need to know how much you can afford to spend on your branded merchandise. You need to balance quality, quantity, and impact. You don't want to compromise on quality, as it reflects on your brand image and reputation. You don't want to run out of quantity, as it might disappoint or frustrate your audience. And you don't want to miss out on impact, as it might reduce your return on investment. Therefore, you need to plan your budget carefully and shop around for the best deals and options.

5 Know your brand

Finally, you need to know your brand and how to communicate it effectively through your branded merchandise. You need to choose products that match your brand identity, values, and personality. You need to use your brand colors, logo, and slogan consistently and creatively. You need to make sure your merchandise stands out from the crowd and makes a lasting impression. And you need to measure and evaluate the results of your merchandise campaign and learn from the feedback.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?