15 Marketing Gift Ideas to Break into Your Target Accounts

May 12, 2023 | Marketing

Thinking of using gifts for marketing? We discuss some amazing ideas to break into your target accounts and get those leads without breaking the bank.

Today, we embark on a journey into the alluring realm of marketing, an indispensable facet of business operations that has traversed a long and winding path since the inception of trade. From simple verbal communication and rudimentary product demonstrations to more sophisticated advertising strategies, marketing has kept pace with commerce, becoming integral to modern-day business practices.

The digital age has ushered in a paradigm shift in marketing, giving rise to a new definition of the discipline. With the vast expanse of the Internet, the reach of social media, and the emergence of the Internet of Things, businesses can leverage technology to connect with a global audience in their marketing pursuits. Yet, in a cacophony of digital noise, how can companies ensure that their marketing endeavors stand out and make a lasting impression on their audience? This is where the concept of sending gifts comes in. So, what are some good marketing gift ideas that you can utilize in your campaigns?

Whether you send personalized products, practical gadgets, or high-quality tech accessories, there’s no denying the power of gifts. Join us as we explore the world of marketing gifts and share tips to help you intrigue your recipients and create a lasting impact on your audience.

The Importance of Gifts for Marketing

While no specific statistic can be attributed to this statement, several studies have shown the effectiveness of promotional products and marketing gifts in driving customer loyalty and retention.

For example, a study conducted by the Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI) found that 85% of consumers who received a promotional product did business with the advertiser, while 58% of recipients said they kept a promotional product for one to four years. Additionally, a survey by PPAI Research found that 83% of consumers like receiving a promotional product with an advertising message and are more likely to do business with the advertiser after receiving a promotional item.

These findings suggest that well-planned gifts for marketing can significantly impact customer retention, brand loyalty, and referrals. Gifts offer a unique opportunity to create a positive and lasting impact on a global audience. By tailoring marketing gifts to the recipient’s cultural preferences, interests, and needs, businesses can cultivate a positive perception that resonates with their target audience. Moreover, the right marketing gift strategy can result in an ROI-raising reciprocal ripple effect.

The Principle of Reciprocity

The art of gift-giving is as old as time. It is a gesture of goodwill that dates back to ancient civilizations. Modern marketers have realized the power of giving gifts to influence customer behavior. In marketing, gift-giving is not just about generosity but is used to ignite the principle of reciprocity.

This psychological trigger influences a person to respond positively when they receive something. When done right, gifting can be an effective way to enforce action and prompt purchases. Corporate gifts can create an emotional connection between the gift giver and the recipient, which is a critical element in marketing. By curating target-specific or neutral gifts, marketers can tap into the emotional side of their prospects and clients.

gifts for marketing - coffee

Here Are Some Marketing Gift Ideas to Break Into Your Target Accounts

So, now that you know almost everything you need to know before thinking about your gifts for marketing, let’s look at some impactful and affordable gift ideas that you can use for your business.

1. Customized Tote Bag:

A tote bag is a practical gift that can be used to carry books, groceries, or anything else. It’s reusable and environmentally friendly – perfect for those eco-conscious on-the-go recipients. What’s more, it can be personalized with your company logo, a quote, a trendy image or even a name.

Personalization message: “We tote-ally love working with you!”

Use case: Create a client loyalty program in which you send them a customized tote bag after their first year of working with you. You can thank them for their amazing support and give them something to help carry the load, outside work.

2. Engraved Water Bottle:

A water bottle is a valuable gift for people always on the go. It can help promote healthy habits and reduce waste from single-use plastic bottles.

Personalization message: “Stay hydrated and keep crushing it!”

Use case: Offer each employee/customer a branded water bottle as part of a wellness initiative to promote healthy habits in the workplace. Encouraging people to drink more daily water can have numerous health benefits, including increased productivity and better overall health. By providing a branded water bottle, the company shows its commitment to wellness and reinforces its brand and values.

3. Personalized Mug:

A mug is a great gift for coffee or tea lovers. It can be used daily and constantly reminds the recipients of your company and what you stand for.

Personalization message: “Thanks a latte for your patronage!”

Use case: You could offer a branded mug as a gift to customers who make a certain purchase or spend a certain amount of money with your company. This shows your appreciation for their business and helps promote brand loyalty and increases the chances of repeat business. Additionally, having your logo and branding on the mug serves as a constant reminder to the customer of your company and what you stand for, potentially leading to more word-of-mouth referrals and new customers.

marketing gift ideas - creative mug

4. Customized Phone Charger:

A phone charger is a practical gift that can be used by everyone. It can help people stay connected and charged up, even if they are on the go.

Personalization description: “Charge up and power through your day!”

Use case: Chargers top the list when it comes to frequent usage. Offering ones with your brand on them as part of your ‘leave a review’ program will not only engrave your brand in users’ minds but will increase affinity, thanks to the reviews.

5. Branded T-Shirts/ Hoodies:

A t-shirt is a great way to promote your brand and create a sense of unity among employees. It can be worn casually or as part of a uniform. All the more reason to ensure that it looks amazing and is made of high-quality material.

Personalization message: “We’re a team, and we wear it on our sleeves!“

Use Case: Launch mass brand awareness campaigns and offer either a shirt or hoodie, depending on a purchase’s $ power. Everyone loves a high-quality freebie, so both staff and customers would push your brand’s agenda with these.

6. Personalized Journal:

A journal is a thoughtful gift for people who like writing, planning, or reflecting. It encourages creativity and mindfulness.

Personalization message: “Write down your dreams and make them a reality!”

Use case: When curating your monthly newsletters, add ‘claim your free personalized journal’ prompt at the end, and allow recipients to add what they’d like written on theirs. This means that they’re involved in the personalization process and will always look forward to reading your newsletter, hoping for pleasant surprises.

7. Customized PopSocket:

A PopSocket is a trendy gift that can be attached to the back of a phone or tablet to make it easier to hold. It is practical and can be customized with your logo or design.

Personalization message: “We’ve got your back, and your phone too!”

Use case: Place these in a bowl at the end of check out (physical stores), or simply add a ‘free pop socket with every purchase on your e-commerce site’. A small, but brand-wary gift.

gifts for marketing - tote bags

8. Engraved Pen Set:

A pen set is a classic gift that can be used in the office or at home. It’s a good gift because it’s practical and can be personalized with a message or name.

Personalization message: “Sign on the dotted line with style.”

Use case: After onboarding new clients, or post-upsell, offer high-quality, branded pens with clients’ initials engraved on them.

9. Customized USB Drive:

A USB drive is a popular marketing gift idea, as it is a useful tool for people who work with computers or need to transfer files. It’s practical and can be customized with your logo or design.

Personalization message: “Save your work, save the day!”

Use case: Offer these as part of SWAG packs that may include other branded items. USBs are practical and most likely found on every desk. Your customers will remember your brand in their sleep.

10. Branded Power Bank:

A power bank is a portable charger that can charge phones, tablets, or other devices. It’s practical and can be customized with your logo or design.

Personalization message: “Stay connected no matter where you go!”

Use case: Great as a singular gift, or as part of a SWAG pack containing other branded items for employees and customers. Celebrating a business milestone? These are great to get your stakeholders charged up.

11. Personalized Keychain:

A keychain is a small but meaningful gift that can be used to hold keys or as a decorative accessory. It’s personal and can be customized with a name or message.

Personalization message: “You hold the key to your success!”

Use case: Customize keychains with the brand’s logo on one side, and your staff/customer’s initials or personal messages on the other, and gift these during internal stakeholder events, or external marketing and promotional events.

12. Personalized Desk Organizer:

A desk organizer is a practical gift for people who work in an office or from home. It helps keep your client or employee’s workspace neat and organized. Perfect for those neat-freaks!

Personalization message: Get your desk in order and your productivity will follow!

Use case: A desk organizer can be given as part of the welcome kit to new hires. This can help them start their new job on an organized note and can serve as a practical gift that they will use every day.

13. Engraved Wine Glasses:

Wine glasses are a sophisticated and elegant gift for clients who enjoy wine or entertainment. This is a classic and timeless gift that can be used for years to come.

Personalization message: “Cheers to a new business partnership and good times ahead!”

Use case: Wine glasses can be given to loyal clients to celebrate their business anniversary. This is a sophisticated and timeless gift that can be used for years to come, making it a memorable keepsake and a token of appreciation.

14. Customized Bluetooth Speaker:

A Bluetooth speaker is a practical gift for music lovers who enjoy listening to music on the go. What’s more, it’s portable and can be customized with your logo or design.

Personalization message: Turn up the volume and get the party started!

Use case: A Bluetooth speaker can be given as a gift to attendees of corporate events, such as conferences or seminars. This can create a memorable experience and provide a useful item that attendees can take home with them.

15. Personalized Succulent Planter:

A succulent planter is a great promotional gift. It is a unique and eco-friendly gift for clients who enjoy plants and gardening. This plant is perfect as it is low maintenance and will add a special touch to their environment. The planter can be customized with a name or message.

Personalization message: “Watch your gift grow and thrive, just like your business!”

Use case: A succulent planter can serve as a gift for guests at corporate events like conferences, trade shows, or company retreats. They can also be sent as part of the client onboarding experience or to thank clients for their loyal support and important role in your own business’ growth.

marketing gift ideas - planter

Send Gifts for Marketing With Giftsenda

Giftsenda offers a unique and efficient solution for businesses to easily and seamlessly send personalized gifts to their clients, partners, and employees without the hassle of managing all the logistics. Our platform has a truly international capacity, with a wide selection of gift options and customization features that enable you to create a memorable and meaningful gift representing your brand – in just a few clicks.

You can easily integrate our platform with your existing Zapier, Salesforce and HubSpot accounts, allowing you to quickly and efficiently send gifts for marketing directly from your CRM system. This streamlined approach saves time and increases efficiency, especially if you are using workflows to automatically send gifts at key moments.

Our personalization options allow you to tailor your gifts to the recipient’s preferences, adding a personal touch that makes your gift stand out. You can add your logo, company name, or even the recipient’s name to the gift, making it a unique and special experience.

Do Corporate Gifting Your Way

Gifting Platform

Do you send gifts to staff, prospects and clients on a regular basis? Our gifting platform is designed to make corporate gifting fast, cost-effective and easy – no matter the size of your recipient list. 

One-Time Projects

Enjoy all the perks of using a gifting platform, with no commitments or recurring costs, when making use of our project-based plan. Use the platform yourself, or we can manage your whole campaign for you.

eCommerce Shop

Do you need to quickly send 1-5 gifts to recipients overseas? Our online shop is free to use. Simply choose the gifts, provide the delivery details, and pay. You can even send a 1:1 gift using en email address!
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