Branded Merchandise for Banks and Credit Unions

If you work in the world of Finance, you know that marketing to your clients can be different.  Whether you are marketing a bank, a credit union, or another organization in the financial world, the issue is real.  You probably have experienced both successes and failures in promoting your organization.  So we have enlisted our Financial Marketing specialist Kelly Bowe for a few things to consider when creating branded merchandise for banks and credit unions.

Choose a Signature pen that is just “YOURS.”

Select a pen that no other financial institution in the area uses and stick with it.  Eventually the customer won’t even need to read the imprint, they know this pen is yours.  Customers come to count on receiving your “signature” pen when they see you at an expo or outing.

Our most recent popular pens are the Antibacterial pens.  They have an additive applied in the production cycle to ensure safety.  The stylus pen also allows the customers to use the stylus for touching credit card machines, pushing button on elevators and more.

An executive style pen is also appreciated when your customers sign loans or contracts.  The executive pen you choose will need to offer blue ink for signing official forms.   Formal vinyl envelopes can be a nice touch when presenting your customer with their closing documents.

A Calendar Is Functional and (Still) Valuable

One of the most popular and appreciated gifts you can give your customer is a calendar.  Some people will say that they have their calendar on their phones; however, they still have a wall calendar, desk calendar or pocket calendar they refer to for appointments and references.   A calendar provides 12 months of exposure to your brand and is always valued by your customers.  If you are not convinced, just remember that your customers are heading to the mall and buying calendars each year in November and December.  You have the ability to provide that value AND promote your brand on their wall if you choose.

Don’t Forget the VIP’s

Having a few high-level gifts on hand is essential.  These nice gifts can be used in place of flowers for an employee family funeral, a retirement, a get well soon message or given as an on-board gift for a new employee.   Wind chimes are a thoughtful and treasured gift.  They have a magical sound and high perceived value.   You could create a universal message for the wind catcher that can be used for all occasions.  These wind chimes are tuned by masters to produce 6 distinct, rich notes.  They are finished with a black powder-coating to prevent rust.

Regardless of the specific high end gift (and we can help you decide) we are believers in creating a high perceived value and choosing something that is very functional.  That not only makes  your customer understand that they are really valued and they see the item and branding over and over.

Let’s Talk about Kiddos!

Let’s not forget the children.  Think about one of the simple McDonald’s marketing strategies behind the Happy Meal.  Take care of the children, and the parents will follow.  A reading book, coloring book or piggy bank will excite the children every time.  The best part about marketing your services to children is you have the chance to help them create good saving and spending habits that will follow them throughout their lives!

If you are in the financial market and need ideas to help promote your brand, please let us know.  We would love to help!  Learn more here.  

Written by: Kirby Hasseman

Kirby Hasseman is the CEO of Hasseman Marketing & Communications. Kirby hosts a weekly Web show called Delivering Marketing Joy where he interviews business leaders from around the country. Kirby has published four books. His most recent is “Fan of Happy.” His book, called "Delivering Marketing Joy" is about doing “promo right” and is perfect for people in the industry and customers. He also wrote “Think Big For Small Business” and “Give Your Way to Success. All are available on Amazon.