SMBs

Now that the New Year is in full swing, businesses of all kinds are planning and preparing for growth. Since many companies are already thinking about a new year of marketing programs, the timing is right to talk to them about cost-effective, proven branding tactics.

As 2017 rolls out, both big companies and small and medium size businesses (SMBs) are looking for ways to increase their visibility, strengthen their reputations and engage customers. Trade shows are one tactic that businesses in almost every sector rely on.

When it comes to working with small and medium size businesses (SMBs), promotional products distributors can of course start by showing owners cool new products. Although this might seem like the most direct approach, there is a better way to work with customers, which will make your efforts more meaningful over the-long term.

Go Beyond Selling to Build Relationships

We've spent a lot of time on this blog talking about the importance of distinct, eye-catching logos. Whether they appear on two-dimensional surfaces or more tangible and touchable items, they should indeed catch eyes and hold them. There are so many places now for small or medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to showcase their brands. These include your customers’ websites, brochures and other printed materials, social media channels like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and promotional products.

In the period of booming growth after World War II, the consumer sector and mass media exploded. And long before rank-and-file employees and executives were being rewarded for great results and hard work with stock options, profit sharing plans, or even company trips, "the company watch" became a symbol of achievement and service for American professionals.

"A great work uniform not only makes your employees feel and look good, but it also increases positive brand recognition and company image, and helps promote safety in the workplace," writes PPB Magazine, a publication of the Promotional Products Association International.

That's certainly true. But also remember that a prominent logo on shirts, outwear or other apparel gets the name and brand of companies or institutions out there for all to see.

Just over a week ago sports history was made. After 108 years without a championship, the Chicago Cubs won the World Series, in a contentious and exciting seven-game battle with the Cleveland Indians. We knew before the first pitch was thrown was that sports excite people.

Often when we hear about the concept of “the brand” in the business press the focus tends to be on huge companies. In the late 20th century, it was firms that dominated their markets with high-quality, specialized yet mass-produced products that just about everyone used from brands such as Kodak and M&M Mars.

No matter whether you're an iPhone user or have an Android, there's one tool that you and everyone you know will use for the rest or your life. It's not the latest tablet, smart watch or anything that needs electricity of any kind.