Promotional products are more than just a bit of branded swag—they are a small piece of your company. You can significantly grow your brand by understanding and harnessing the psychology behind these items. Promotional products can create a lasting impact when used effectively, turning brand awareness into sales and encouraging customer loyalty. But what are the psychological triggers you want to tap into?
Boosting Brand Connection Through Reciprocity
Reciprocity, a powerful psychological trigger, is the idea that people are more likely to do something for someone if they have received a favour or gift from them first. In marketing, businesses can use this by giving customers a complimentary promotional product that will invoke gratitude, thereby generating psychological pressure to reciprocate. By offering something of value to potential customers, such as a useful promotional product with a high perceived value, you can create a sense of indebtedness in your customers, which can lead to sales. Businesses focusing on reciprocity in their marketing efforts will likely see increased engagement and loyalty to their brand.
Strengthening Brand Recall
Promotional products keep your brand in mind, especially when they are useful items used regularly or sitting on a desk. For instance, a branded pen, a notebook, or a reusable water bottle are all items that are used frequently and can serve as effective promotional products. According to the marketing rule of 7, it takes an average of seven interactions with your brand before a purchase occurs. Repeated exposure helps consumers develop familiarity with your brand, making them more likely to buy. For example, if you have received a fantastic promotional item at a trade show and then see a follow-up email from the same company, you are more likely to convert that interaction into a sale.
Creating a High-Perceived Value
We often emphasize this point—when someone receives a promotional product with a high perceived value, they are more likely to appreciate the gesture and associate your brand with positivity and generosity. This sense of ownership enhances the item’s perceived value and, by extension, your brand. The way the product is presented, from sleek packaging to thoughtful delivery, also adds to its perceived worth. Investing in high-perceived value merchandise helps build stronger connections and lasting loyalty, turning recipients into brand advocates.
Leveraging Social Proof
Social proof
is a powerful psychological tool that has gained significant traction on social media, especially with the rise of user-generated content. When you see someone using a brand, you are more likely to consider buying from that same brand. Think about trade shows where everyone’s carrying an eye-catching piece of branded merchandise—it quickly turns into a must-have item. As more people carry around your promotional merch, it becomes a familiar sight, creating a ripple effect. This visibility reinforces the idea that a broad audience trusts and likes your brand.
Capture Attention Using Novelty & Surprise
Novelty and surprise, when used effectively, help create memorable experiences with promotional merchandise. When people receive something unexpected or unique, it stands out in their memory, making your brand more likely to be recalled positively. Brands that use novelty in their marketing are perceived to be more innovative and customer-focused. Offering something different shows your brand goes the extra mile, which can boost loyalty and create a positive image. People love to share experiences that surprise or delight them. Novel promotional items often spark conversations, increasing your brand’s visibility organically.
How to Use These Psychological Insights to Grow Your Brand with Promotional Products
Start by identifying your target audience and the outcomes you want to achieve, like increasing brand awareness or boosting customer loyalty. Then contact us, and we will help you select the right promotional products that align with your goals and tap into key psychological triggers like reciprocity and social proof. We can help you create a promotional product strategy that strengthens your brand and builds lasting customer relationships.
Get in touch to find the right promotional products that can help you connect with your audience on a deeper level.
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