Happy workers, happy customers: Spread joy using branded swag for employees

By Laurie Frees

It sounds simple, but it’s true: Happy employees make happy customers. Happy employees are more likely opens in new window to go above and beyond for a customer, meeting or exceeding their needs and inspiring customer loyalty. By raising team member satisfaction—with a little help from branded swag for employees—organizations can create better customer experiences. It’s a win-win.

Research shows there’s opportunities for improvement, with 50% of workers saying their company could do more to improve employee happiness and well-being at work opens in new window. Use these strategies, along with gifts for employees, to bring more joy to the workplace, boost company pride and leave customers happy and excited to come back.

Establish a clear vision and values

It’s helpful for employees to know the work they do is part of a larger mission. If you don’t have clear vision and values statements, create them. If you already have them, it may be time to revisit and refresh. Invite employees into the process by collecting input and feedback. Keep your new or improved statements top of mind by imprinting them on ceramic coffee mugs.

Give those who contribute ideas a gift, like branded apparel that fits your dress code. Quarter-zip pullovers or crewneck sweatshirts can make a positive impression on customers and employees. Celebrate your new or retooled values with a day of team building. End the experience by handing out baseball caps as a show of unity.

Ensure employees are seen and heard

When considering changes at your company, keep the lines of communication open by encouraging feedback. Employees who put themselves out there—maybe by making a bold suggestion or offering a piece of constructive criticism—can later be rewarded for their contributions through branded swag for employees. Items like insulated water bottles and travel mugs make welcome thank-you gifts.

Consider a monthly or quarterly meeting to discuss big-picture issues. Keep in mind that not all employees are comfortable speaking up in a public setting, so allow them to submit questions and comments anonymously. End each meeting with a giveaway of new company swag. Workers might score a bucket hat or lunch bag. Their smiles will soon spread to customers.

Lead by example

Employee satisfaction is important throughout your organization. Leaders should be engaged and happy, serving as positive role models who communicate expectations clearly and inspire others to follow. When an employee goes above and beyond, no matter what level they’re at, surprise them with a party cooler or backpack cooler. Fill it with their favourite beverage to make a great gift even better.

Stay tuned in to employee successes by starting a weekly peer-recognition program. Each week, workers can nominate a co-worker for an outstanding act of customer service. Reward those recognized with a fun prize, like a fun flyer or push-pop ball. Be sure to mention how these behaviours connect to your established vision and values.

Promote continuous employee growth

Ensure employees have opportunities for learning and growth. Doing so can reduce the chance of burnout and disengagement. Encourage professional development by offering training and conferences. Recognize employee development by giving a paperweight or challenge coin to anyone who earns a promotion or certification. When employees travel to a conference, send them off with a useful gift, like a travel duffel bag or a fanny pack, to show your support.

Bring smiles through branded swag for employees

Increasing joy throughout the organization can result in more company pride and improved customer experiences. A clear vision and values, thoughtful leadership, two-way communication and opportunities for growth—with a sprinkling of branded swag for employees—can benefit your organization from top to bottom.

Laurie Frees

Laurie Frees is a merchandising category manager at 4imprint who specializes in apparel. With over 25 years of experience in merchandising and product development—plus four years in the promotional products industry—she brings deep expertise in fabric construction and logo application. Laurie manages the product assortment across all apparel categories, including T-shirts, polos, outerwear, dress shirts, sweatshirts and more. Her role includes tracking trends, building supplier partnerships and analyzing data to guide decisions. With a strong focus on products made from sustainable materials, Laurie helps drive innovation in core apparel offerings that customers rely on to showcase their brands.

All marks are the property of 4imprint or their respective owners.

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