Rewards and recognition are powerful tools for employee retention. Retaining employees is a critical component of business success, and employees who feel valued and appreciated are more motivated to continue performing well in their jobs. Company swag is a great way to recognize employees for their hard work, show them they are appreciated, and increase employee morale. Even businesses with remote employees can benefit from giving their employees swag items.
Show your employees you appreciate them by giving them carefully chosen company swag they actually want, and you’ll be rewarded with productive employees and a positive work environment. These five types of promotional products are the best swag items for employees.
How do you select the best swag items for employees?
The purpose of swag is to give employees something they want to use now and in the future. When selecting swag, you’ll want to choose functional, thoughtful, or personalized items. Company swag comes in many different forms, including t-shirts, hats, water bottles, notebooks, totes, mugs, and pens that can build awareness with your business name or logo on them.
Company Shirts
You can never go wrong gifting apparel to your employees. Tried and true classic company-branded T-shirts are one of the most popular swag options because they work for practically everyone. Employees can wear their shirts as they are out and about, going to the grocery store, the bank, or running errands, bringing additional attention to your brand. Most T-shirts are available in various colors and sizes and can be imprinted with your company name or logo. The key is choosing a quality tee that fits well, and your employees will love wearing it frequently. Company shirts are also valuable tools for team building. You can encourage employees to wear a company shirt to your next event, whether that event is physical or virtual.
Custom Drinkware
When it comes to employee swag, it’s not what’s in the cup but what’s on it. Hot, iced, or even shaken drinks taste better from custom drinkware. There are branded drinkware options to suit any employee’s style, from break room coffee mugs to workout favorite water bottles. Eco-friendly drinkware, water bottles, tumblers, wine glasses, and many other forms of branded drinkware have become popular swag items for employees. You could even include a selection of favorite teas, coffees, or other drink items to accompany the drinkware. Branded drinkware is a swag item employees can use every day and keep them sipping in style.
Reusable Tote Bags
Useful and functional, personalized tote bags are something all employees can find helpful. Reusable bags are handy for various activities, from day-to-day errands to special events. Whether it’s trips to the market, library, pool, conferences, or conventions, having a reusable bag is convenient for carrying extra or unexpected items. Reusable bags are also an excellent choice for an eco-conscious swag item. There are several kinds of reusable bags a company can choose from, including tote bags, cotton bags, non-woven bags, and drawstring bags that can all be imprinted with a brand name, logo, or message.
Work From Home Accessories
Even in the digital age, note-taking is thriving, and everyone needs a place to take notes, track tasks, jot down important ideas, or doodle. A sturdy custom branded notebook is a valuable swag item for employees, whether they are working from home or in the office, and they come in a variety of styles and colors. Planners are another helpful swag idea for employees. Whether it’s a classic day planner or a desk planner, employees can ensure they are always up to date with what’s going on around them. Remote work doesn’t always mean working from home, employees will appreciate portable device chargers, including wireless chargers, when they need to charge a cell phone, tablet or other device.
Edible Swag
The right treat can make someone’s day, and a thoughtful snack is one of the best ways to demonstrate appreciation. Whether it’s sweet or salty, tasty food and candy gifts are great swag items employees can even enjoy while working. Food gift items could include cookies, nuts, pretzels, dried fruits, truffles, and many other tantalizing treats.
At Safeguard, we know recognition and rewards drive employee engagement and business success. You can rely on your Safeguard Advisor to help you pick the best swag items for employees. Learn more here to get started.
Key Takeaways
- Company swag is a great way to recognize employees for their hard work.
- The purpose of swag is to give employees something they want to use now and in the future.
- The best swag items for employees don’t need to be expensive or flashy, but they should be thoughtful, helpful, or memorable.
- The best company swag includes apparel, drinkware, reusable bags, office accessories, and food and drinks.
- You can rely on your Safeguard Advisor to help you pick the best swag items for employees.