Change...the real constant!

It is said that change is the only constant. In our business, truer words have never been spoken. Clients are changing their business models, their staff and their communication methods.In fact, I can honestly say, none do business the way they did two years ago. Change is good! We all provide a service. Ours is to understand our clients needs and deliver solutions which in turn deliver results! Recently I attended a talk given by one of my industry peers, Mark Graham. His talk was entitled "10 No-Nonsense Ways Social Media Can Be Applied To Your Promotional Products Business". Wow, I am a no nonsense type of guy so, yes, he had me a hello! During his talk, Mark used many case studies to demonstrate how through the use of various Social Media, one could do market research, solve problems etc. Basically, he raised the profile of his organization within his client base and our industry. The bigger message (read my big take away) was much more than being told to master "new" technologies. The message is the same one delivered in many a course given by many a sales guru. Know that your business is about your clients, NOT YOU! Know that if you are not listening to your clients and taking the action to provide the best products, solutions and service, then Bye Bye...See ya! It struck me funny that people who tossed questions during this talk were more worried about how much time was spent "playing on the Internet"! Hello...since when are we "playing" at our business? Listen, if my clients are interested in Polo, I have to learn about Polo. If they are into cake decorating, I had better know something about that. If my clients are using Social Media to enrich their businesses, then I need to be on that platform as well. Bottom line. Be where your clients are. Communicate with your clients in the manner they want to be communicated with. Help your clients find what they need. Even if you cannot provide the service yourself, find an associate who can. Your clients will change. You MUST be willing to change with them.

2011 Trending Now!

Using promotional products to promote your business is a proven method to generate results. However, the promotional world is shifting. Gone are the days when just your logo on a pen will suffice. More and more company's are looking to differentiate themselves through the branding of their promotional items. Products that reflect your brand and are relevant to the recipient have become the most important criteria.

By following a few key consumer and market trends when choosing your items, can dramatically increase the return on your investment.

Use Technology - Technology, social media & mobile accessibity now permiate our daily lives. Using features such as QR codes & Facebook page addresses will help drive your client to recieve further information from your organization.

Hassle-Free Travel - Traveling should be a stress free experience. With the ever changing security regulations, one needs a week at the spa just to unwind from a simple flight. Security-friendly laptop bags, backpacks and netbook cases, allow you clients to simply unzip their bags and lay them flat for their trip through the inspection machines at security. A great way to thank your clients is to de-stress their work day.

Stay Green - The unbiquitous Polypropylene tote bag has become a trade show standard. Wherever possible, look for the "green" option. Everything from pens, drinkware, wearables and even USB flash drives are being made with Organic or recycled material. Tell your client you care and they will listen to you.

Increase the Cool Factor - Look to the street. What are the fashion magazines showing. Look for colour trends, finishes and most of all wearable enhancements. A simple shot of a bold colour on any product you are currently using may be all you need to make the product POP!

Staying in touch with current trends or putting your logo on a "non-traditional" item may be all you need to increase the chances of your promotional products being used over and over again and allow you to increase the exposure of your brand!