What a challenge in today’s world: Are we in a recession, out of a recession but waiting for the double dip everyone is talking about? OR has the recession lingered and we never came out of it (despite what the White House reports).
Five essential ways to market your business using promotional items:
1) Use them as invitations
Instead of giving them away without any specific reason, try using them as invitations for a future event. For example, you could send across a box of chocolates with a card including a message: "We are pleased to invite you to celebrate our company’s 25th year of operation."
2) Sponsor Events
Try hosting an event to acquire more leads for sales and impress existing clients and customers. You can organize a fund raising event for a non-profit in the community. Give-away promotional merchandise at the event. Give each participant a gift bag with efficient products that they could use frequently
3) Send Direct Mailers
Send mail to existing clients, investors, or customers with a thank you note imprinted on it. Or introduce your company and its products or services by sending free gifts or samples to potential customers. The key here is to have a plan in place for follow-up.
4) Socialize
Do not hesitate to discuss your promotional ideas whenever you get an opportunity to socialize with people. The art of networking is to let everyone you meet (even in a social setting) know what you do for a living.
5) Analyze
Analyzing promotional products is extremely important to perform better in the future. Request your customers to submit feedback on the gifts they received from your company. This will help you evaluate your efforts. Use survey monkey to get feedback from your customers.
Article provided by Patricia Desiderio, owner and president of Patty’s Gifts and Baskets, LLC, T/A Patty’s Promotions. A promotional products distributor and international gift company.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
International Business Meeting Gift Giving – Detailed
Countries in which a gift is expected:
In today’s world, with global companies, as well as countries populated and influenced by different religions cultures, it is important to develop good business relationships by taking the time to learn more about the person you are doing business with.
Chinese Culture: Countries in the world with a Chinese cultural influence, accept gifts with a reserved demeanor. In order not to appear greedy, a gift will not be immediately taken, but refused three times before finally being accepted. If you are presented with a gift, follow the same process of refusing it three times then accept it with both hands. You will also not open it, but wait until later.
In China, official business policy considers gifts as bribes, which are illegal. Though this policy is softening, there may be times when a gift you offer will absolutely not be accepted.
In Chinese culture symbolism is important, with colors and numbers having special meaning. Red is a lucky color. Pink and yellow represent happiness. The number eight (8) is the luckiest number. The colors black, white and blue and the number four (4), or four of anything are negatively associated with death and funerals.
Sharp objects like knives or scissors represent “a severing of a friendship or relationship” including a business relationship.
Japanese Culture: In Japan gift giving is an art form. It represents respect, gratitude and friendship. For a first business meeting, come prepared with a gift, a quality gift that is not extravagant. When you offer your gift, hold in both hands and bow. In Japan, symbolism is important. A gift with a pair of items is considered lucky, but sets of four or nine are unlucky. Plus, the number four (4) also means death. The color red is associated with funerals. So do not give a pen with red ink. And do not write out a card using red ink.
The Japanese will refuse a gift once or twice before accepting it. And it will not be opened in your presence. When a gift is offered to you, follow the same ceremony.
Latin Culture: Latin cultures don’t have formal or traditional ceremonies surrounding gift giving. However, business relationships are developed as personal relationships. And in order to build a strong and lasting friendship, gifts are a thoughtful way to make a good first impression. If you are a man giving a gift to a female, in order for the gift not be construed as a romantic overture; tell her you’re delivering the gift on behalf of your wife or assistant. Symbolism in this culture will also influence the choices you make for gifts and wrapping paper. Black or purple paper isn’t used because it’s used during Holy Week. As in other cultures, sharp objects should never be given, since they represent a severing of a relationship.
Jewish: Orthodox Jews are not allowed to eat pork and shellfish. The dietary laws are very specific regarding which foods are acceptable to eat, and their processing and preparation. Because wine is used in religious ceremonies, it’s required to be kosher even for social drinking. So all wine and wine-based drinks consumed must be kosher, prepared and bottled by Jews. If you want to buy a gift of food or wine, it is best to shop at a kosher store.
Muslim: In the Muslin culture, the Koran forbids alcohol. Gifts of liquor or any product that contains alcohol such as perfume would never be selected to give. Also forbidden are products or foods from scavengers, which include pork, birds and shellfish. So a leather item made from a pig skin could not be given. Other categories are also not appropriate for gifts. Dogs are considered unclean, so any dog item, even something with a picture of dog would not be given. The same applies to knives, considered severing a relationship.
A good gift for Muslin is a compass. Each day he must face Mecca for prayers.
Gifts are presented using the right hand, or both hands. The left hand is never used alone to hand someone a gift, as it’s considered unclean.
Hindu: In the Hindu culture the cow is sacred, plus fish and all animal products except milk or butter are shunned. Therefore, you would never select any leather or food product from these categories. Most Hindus also don’t drink alcohol.
Gifts are given and accepted using your right hand, or both hands, never only your left hand, as the left is considered unclean since it’s used for personal hygiene. And gifts are not opened at the time they’re received.
European Root Culture: Cultures without strong gift giving traditions, European cultures and countries influenced by these cultures, don’t use gifts as an integral component of a business relationship. This doesn’t mean that an occasional and appropriate gift is not appreciated.
Article provided by Patricia Desiderio, owner and president of Patty’s Gifts and Baskets, LLC, T/A Patty’s Promotions. A promotional products distributor and international gift company.
Contact: www.pattysgiftsandbasketsrus.com or www.pattyspromotions.com.
- Europe: Czech Republic, Poland, Russia, Ukraine
- Latin American: Bolivia, Columbia, Costa Rica
- Pacific Rim – China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Phillipines and Thailand
- Europe: Portugal, Spain
- Latin American: Brazil, Chile, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru and Venezuela
- Pacific Rim: Singapore
- Scandinavia: Finland, Norway
- Africa
- Australia
- Europe: England, France, Hungary and Italy
- Latin American: Uruguay
- Scandinavia: Denmark
- Middle East: Pakistan, Saudi Arabia
- United States
In today’s world, with global companies, as well as countries populated and influenced by different religions cultures, it is important to develop good business relationships by taking the time to learn more about the person you are doing business with.
Chinese Culture: Countries in the world with a Chinese cultural influence, accept gifts with a reserved demeanor. In order not to appear greedy, a gift will not be immediately taken, but refused three times before finally being accepted. If you are presented with a gift, follow the same process of refusing it three times then accept it with both hands. You will also not open it, but wait until later.
In China, official business policy considers gifts as bribes, which are illegal. Though this policy is softening, there may be times when a gift you offer will absolutely not be accepted.
In Chinese culture symbolism is important, with colors and numbers having special meaning. Red is a lucky color. Pink and yellow represent happiness. The number eight (8) is the luckiest number. The colors black, white and blue and the number four (4), or four of anything are negatively associated with death and funerals.
Sharp objects like knives or scissors represent “a severing of a friendship or relationship” including a business relationship.
Japanese Culture: In Japan gift giving is an art form. It represents respect, gratitude and friendship. For a first business meeting, come prepared with a gift, a quality gift that is not extravagant. When you offer your gift, hold in both hands and bow. In Japan, symbolism is important. A gift with a pair of items is considered lucky, but sets of four or nine are unlucky. Plus, the number four (4) also means death. The color red is associated with funerals. So do not give a pen with red ink. And do not write out a card using red ink.
The Japanese will refuse a gift once or twice before accepting it. And it will not be opened in your presence. When a gift is offered to you, follow the same ceremony.
Latin Culture: Latin cultures don’t have formal or traditional ceremonies surrounding gift giving. However, business relationships are developed as personal relationships. And in order to build a strong and lasting friendship, gifts are a thoughtful way to make a good first impression. If you are a man giving a gift to a female, in order for the gift not be construed as a romantic overture; tell her you’re delivering the gift on behalf of your wife or assistant. Symbolism in this culture will also influence the choices you make for gifts and wrapping paper. Black or purple paper isn’t used because it’s used during Holy Week. As in other cultures, sharp objects should never be given, since they represent a severing of a relationship.
Jewish: Orthodox Jews are not allowed to eat pork and shellfish. The dietary laws are very specific regarding which foods are acceptable to eat, and their processing and preparation. Because wine is used in religious ceremonies, it’s required to be kosher even for social drinking. So all wine and wine-based drinks consumed must be kosher, prepared and bottled by Jews. If you want to buy a gift of food or wine, it is best to shop at a kosher store.
Muslim: In the Muslin culture, the Koran forbids alcohol. Gifts of liquor or any product that contains alcohol such as perfume would never be selected to give. Also forbidden are products or foods from scavengers, which include pork, birds and shellfish. So a leather item made from a pig skin could not be given. Other categories are also not appropriate for gifts. Dogs are considered unclean, so any dog item, even something with a picture of dog would not be given. The same applies to knives, considered severing a relationship.
A good gift for Muslin is a compass. Each day he must face Mecca for prayers.
Gifts are presented using the right hand, or both hands. The left hand is never used alone to hand someone a gift, as it’s considered unclean.
Hindu: In the Hindu culture the cow is sacred, plus fish and all animal products except milk or butter are shunned. Therefore, you would never select any leather or food product from these categories. Most Hindus also don’t drink alcohol.
Gifts are given and accepted using your right hand, or both hands, never only your left hand, as the left is considered unclean since it’s used for personal hygiene. And gifts are not opened at the time they’re received.
European Root Culture: Cultures without strong gift giving traditions, European cultures and countries influenced by these cultures, don’t use gifts as an integral component of a business relationship. This doesn’t mean that an occasional and appropriate gift is not appreciated.
Article provided by Patricia Desiderio, owner and president of Patty’s Gifts and Baskets, LLC, T/A Patty’s Promotions. A promotional products distributor and international gift company.
Contact: www.pattysgiftsandbasketsrus.com or www.pattyspromotions.com.
A Guide to Surviving Holiday Office Gift Giving Season
The holidays should be a time of joy and celebration. Many questions abound …. should you give all your co-workers a present? What to do when the boss gives you a present? Are gag gifts okay?
Article provided by Patricia Desiderio, owner and president of Patty’s Gifts and Baskets, LLC, T/A Patty’s Promotions. A promotional products distributor and international gift company.
Contact: www.pattysgiftsandbasketsrus.com or www.pattyspromotions.com.
- DO first understand the company policy on gift giving. The larger the company, the more likely a specific policy is in place.
- DO examine the company’s corporate culture for the types of gifts that might be acceptable. DO use common sense and good judgment when making gift choices.
- DON’T get a gift for anyone in the office for the sake of making a statement. Give gifts to show appreciation and thanks. Remember to be respectful of religious beliefs.
- DO stay within your budget (and office budget) for these gifts. DO not go overboard for gifts for the boss.
- DON’T assume the people in your office share your tastes.
- DON’T even think of gag or other inappropriate gifts. DON’T give items that are too personal, religious, racial or sexual. Clothing (lingerie), perfume, alcoholic items are DON’TS.
- DON’T pass up a chance to partake in a “Secret Santa” if the whole office is doing so. But remember to stick with all the rules.
- DO consider gifts that can be shared with co-workers or family members. Unusual plants or flowers are another possible DO.
Article provided by Patricia Desiderio, owner and president of Patty’s Gifts and Baskets, LLC, T/A Patty’s Promotions. A promotional products distributor and international gift company.
Contact: www.pattysgiftsandbasketsrus.com or www.pattyspromotions.com.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Opening New Market - Promotional Products Expansion
Patricia Desiderio, President of Patty's Gifts and Baskets LLC, T/A Patty's Promotions announced the following expansion:
Robin Wright has been hired to manage a new office in Florida. Robin will be based in Santa Rosa Beach. The office opened in May and she will be responsible for managing the new office. The territory from Panama City to Destin (the panhandle). Robin will be developing a sales strategy for the new market and assist in the development of action plans to penetrate new markets. New strategy development is to partner with area businesses and offer the level of customer service Patty's Promotions is known for. Selling in the service industry is about forming lasting business relationships. We look forward to the success of this new region.
Robin Wright has been hired to manage a new office in Florida. Robin will be based in Santa Rosa Beach. The office opened in May and she will be responsible for managing the new office. The territory from Panama City to Destin (the panhandle). Robin will be developing a sales strategy for the new market and assist in the development of action plans to penetrate new markets. New strategy development is to partner with area businesses and offer the level of customer service Patty's Promotions is known for. Selling in the service industry is about forming lasting business relationships. We look forward to the success of this new region.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Monday, September 20, 2010
Top 100 MBE
The Top 100 MBE Awards program was established by the Center for Business Inclusion and Diversity (CBID), a nonprofit organization dedicating to helping women and minority owned businesses succeed, “to recognize enterprising women and minority entrepreneurs that fuel this nation’s economy through their innovation, sacrifices and dedication”.
To be eligible for nomination, MBE’s must be successfully operational for a minimum of three years, have introduced a new product or process and demonstrate a history of significant and worthwhile contribution to their profession, client satisfaction and mentor others. Maintain active involvement and leadership (and significant time) to the community through volunteer activities.
Patty’s Gifts and Baskets LLC (Trading As: Patty’s Promotions) is a promotional products distributor and gift company. The company ships internationally through their gift division. The company employs a staff of five and is a WBE certified company. The business was founded in May 2002.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
