It’s hard to believe it’s already June. But here we are! And in honor of the 6th month of the year, we want to show you 6 promotional products you need to know about. So if you are in the market for a cool (or hot) piece of branded merch that is sure to move the needle this summer…this is for you. Oh…and if you want to just skip all of “the words,” you can head to our shop here.
6 Promotional Products You Need To Know About In June
Our goal is to show you some timely, and hopefully trendy, promotional products that will hit many different price points. In addition, we will tell you what we love about the products…but also some drawbacks as well. Let’s dig in!
The Coolie Cappy Combo
The Coolie Cappy Combo is a unique and practical solution for promoting your message and keeping your drinks at the perfect temperature. This combo includes a full-color beverage insulator and a handy Cappy can cover gadget that transforms any can into a spill-proof container. The insulator is made from high-density foam to reduce condensation and keep drinks cold, making it great for outdoor events and picnics. The Cappy clips onto the tab of a can, and can be opened and closed to prevent unwanted things from getting in, spills, retains carbonation, and has a key ring hole for easy portability.
Positive: This is a super cool piece for outdoor events with the team or your customers. What we love about this product (or product combo) is that it is a conversation starter. When you give this away it will give you the chance to explain the product and show the audience how much you care. No one wants to have a bee (or anything else unwanted) to surprise them in their drink. This helps protect from that!
Negative: It’s a conversation starter because it needs an explanation. The product DOES come with instructions, but how many of your team (or customers) actually even read an email?
Overall, we really like this because it’s timely (especially for summer events), it’s unique, and it really is useful, once you explain it!
Lightweight Loop Terry Beach Towel
Enjoy spa-level treatment from the pool to the beach with this super absorbent towel! Measuring 30″ x 60″ this, promo weight hemmed 100% ring spun cotton loop terry towel is perfect for budget-friendly promotions and summertime giveaways.
Positive: We are a big fan of Beach Towels. They have a high perceived value, a HUGE imprint area, and they are kept for a long time. Studies will tell you that the average beach towel is kept for at least 7 years. That means that most are kept longer than that. We certainly never seem to throw them out!
Negative: Since the imprint area (and the item) is so big, the setup charge is larger too. It takes a lot to cover that much area!
Overall, we are big fans of the beach towel. They show appreciation and are used for years!
Fabric Clip Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
Enjoy your favorite music from anywhere. The Fabric Clip Waterproof Bluetooth® Speaker easily clips to your favorite bag, letting you bring it to the pool, the park, or to your next house party. Enjoy hands-free operation with built-in microphone and music controls. The 5W output fills any room with quality sound. It has an IP67 waterproof rating, which means it can submerged under water without damaging.
Positive: We have always said, if you can give an item that enhances your customer’s life AND ties to their phone, it’s a home run. This can be both. In addition, we are getting more and more requests for WATERPROOF speakers. Apparently everyone thinks they are going to be near a pool or lake this summer!
Negative: You need to know your audience. If you are spending money on an item in this budget, you want to make sure it’s an audience that will appreciate it!
Overall, we love it! This item speaks to quality, function, and summer fun.
Mini Beachcomber Bag / Tote
The made-for-one personal beach bag to hold your essentials for a day of relaxation. The 15” x 13” size easily holds sunscreen, sunglasses, lotion, flip-flops, a book, and more. It’s waterproof and lightweight, plus it has a comfortable strap which makes for easy carrying. A bold full-color imprint option commands attention.
Positive: These totes are all the rage. Not only are they functional, but they show that your brand is on trend this summer.
Negative: These take some time to get in. They are done overseas, so if you need them in a hurry, they are not for you. There is a BIG difference in the timeline from air freight and ocean…so make sure you discuss your in hands date. But if you are interested, now is the time to order!
If your brand is one that is on the cutting edge of trends, this would be a great and functional piece. Just make sure you order soon!
Pinnacle Recycled Travel Tumbler with Straw 40oz
Meet the Pinnacle, a budget-friendly 40 oz travel tumbler that doesn’t compromise on style or performance – all while being made from recycled materials. Constructed using 91% post-consumer recycled 18/8 stainless steel – the 40 oz Pinnacle Travel Tumbler features high-performance copper vacuum insulation that will keep drinks cold 24+ hours for all-day hydration, and a durable power coating with a sleek matte finish that matches the handle, straw and lid slider for a premium, retail look and feel. The 100% recycled plastic, press-on swivel lid securely holds the Tritan straw in place, is easily rotated to expose the drink opening, and features a proprietary lid slider to prevent spills. A sturdy ergonomic handle makes carrying this tumbler effortless, and the slim base fits in most car cup holders
Positive: Everyone loves drinkware. The latest trends show it. And summer is often vacation season. So drinkware is perfect for road trips and to makes sure you are hydrated on the beach. In addition, this product is more eco-friendly than many of its competitors.
Negative: We are big fans of drinkware, so this is tough. The one negative might be that there are lots of competitors out there.
Overall, we feel like this one stands up. It’s great for this (or any) time of year…and it’s got a great price point considering the eco-friendly components. This makes us want to hit the road!
NBN Recycled Outdoor 15 Can Cooler
The NBN Recycled Outdoor 15-Can Cooler has a sleek design featuring an easy-access front pocket and one side pocket. The cooler is fully insulated, and its body material is made with recycled material. Through a partnership with 1% For The Planet, one percent of sales of all EcoSmart® products will be donated to nonprofits dedicated to protecting the planet.
Positive: Everyone can use a cooler…especially this time of year. And with a giveback component, you can feel great about giving a really nice item that will last.
Negative: Hmmm…maybe that it ONLY holds 15 cans?
Overall, we love a cooler for this time of year. Even if you are not going on vacation, you can still use this at home, on the golf course, or on a family picnic in the park. You can’t go wrong with this one!
So there you have it! These are 6 Promotional Products You Need To Know About In June! Want to see more? Check out our Summer Shop here!
As always, we want to provide you with value. So if you want to create marketing campaigns (and appreciation gifts) that hit the TARGET, check out our TARGET marketing playbook here.
Personal development is a lifelong journey that requires continuous learning and growth. In this DMJ 1 on 1, we will explore five books that offer invaluable insights and practical strategies to help you on your path to self-improvement. These books, which Kirby recommends, cover a range of topics from effective habits to mental resilience, and from goal setting to overcoming self-doubt. Each book has had a profound impact on Kirby’s life and can potentially transform yours too.
5 Great Books If You Want To Grow
Whether you are a seasoned self-help book reader or a beginner looking for a good place to start, these books offer a wealth of knowledge and practical advice. They are not just theoretical but provide actionable steps that you can incorporate into your daily life. So, let’s delve into these five great books if you want to grow.
Seven Habits of Highly Effective People
“Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey is a classic in the personal development genre. Kirby credits this book for having a significant impact on his life. It emphasizes the importance of internal dialogue and introspection in shaping our actions and reactions. The book makes you realize that the pursuit of growth is not just about achieving success but also about finding happiness.
Kirby shares his personal experience with the exercises provided in the book. These exercises, when practiced diligently, can lead to a profound shift in perspective and behavior. The book encourages readers to take responsibility for their lives and to proactively work towards their goals.
The 5-Second Rule
“The 5-Second Rule” by Mel Robbins is another powerful book that encourages readers to take immediate action to overcome self-doubt. The book underscores the power of setting goals and writing them down. It explains how our brain has a tendency to talk us out of taking action, especially when it involves stepping out of our comfort zone.
The 5-Second Rule is a simple yet effective strategy to overcome this inertia. By counting backward and taking immediate action, we can bypass our brain’s natural resistance and make progress toward our goals.
The Power of One More
“The Power of One More” by Ed Mylett is a motivational book that encourages readers to push their limits. The book introduces the concept of doing ‘one more’ in various areas of life, whether it’s one more rep in the gym, one more hour of study, or one more act of kindness. This approach can lead to a compounding effect, resulting in significant progress over time.
The book also emphasizes the importance of keeping promises to oneself as a way to build self-confidence.
Soundtracks
“Soundtracks” by Jon Acuff is a book that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and creating positive soundtracks in the mind. Kirby discusses the prevalence of negative soundtracks in our minds, which often hold us back from achieving our full potential.
The book provides practical strategies to redirect and rework these negative soundtracks into positive affirmations.
The Dip
“The Dip” by Seth Godin is a book that discusses the concept of perseverance and pushing through challenges to achieve success. The book introduces the concept of ‘the dip’ – a period of hardship that one must endure in any new project or endeavor.
Godin argues that most people quit when faced with ‘the dip’, but those who persevere through it are the ones who achieve true success. The book emphasizes the importance of intentional decision-making when considering quitting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, personal development and continuous growth are crucial for a fulfilling life. The five books discussed in this article provide practical strategies and insights to help you on your journey. Whether it’s developing effective habits, overcoming self-doubt, pushing your limits, changing your thought patterns, or persevering through challenges, these books offer invaluable guidance. So, pick up one of these books and start your journey toward personal growth today.
So there you have it! These are the 5 books that every person should read if they want to grow personally and professionally! As always, we want to provide you with value. So if you want to create marketing campaigns (and appreciation gifts) that hit the TARGET, check out our TARGET marketing playbook here.
Delivering Marketing Joy is an award-winning interview show that helps marketers level up. Each week, Kirby Hasseman interviews the best and brightest minds in marketing to help you level up. This time on Lessons from DMJ, Kirby talks with Taylor Borst about creating great events and saying YES to opportunities outside of your comfort zone.
In this Delivering Marketing Joy, Taylor Borst, the Senior Director of Marketing and Vendor Relations at ASB, pulls back the curtain to reveal the intricate behind-the-scenes work that goes into orchestrating successful events. Taylor’s insights offer a unique perspective on the event planning and marketing industry, highlighting the importance of collaboration, continuous learning, and stepping outside of one’s comfort zone.
From discussing upcoming events to the evolution of her role, Taylor provides a comprehensive overview of her work at ASB. She delves into the importance of building relationships within the industry, the challenges and insights gained in vendor relations, and the philosophy behind creating events that foster long-lasting connections.
Upcoming Events
As the Senior Director of Marketing and Vendor Relations at ASB, Taylor Borst is always looking ahead to the next big event. In the video, she mentions two upcoming events that the team is currently preparing for – an end-user show in Minnesota and a similar event in Denver. These events are significant milestones in ASB’s calendar, requiring meticulous planning and coordination.
Each event is a unique opportunity for ASB to showcase its offerings and build relationships with end users. The team puts in a lot of effort to ensure that each event is a success, from securing the venue to coordinating with vendors and ensuring that every attendee has a memorable experience.
ASB Accelerate Event and Summit
ASB is also gearing up for an ASV accelerate event and their 10th-anniversary Summit. These events are significant landmarks for the company, marking a decade of success and growth. The ASV Accelerate event is designed to fast-track the success of ASB’s partners, providing them with valuable insights and resources.
The 10th-anniversary Summit, on the other hand, is a celebration of ASB’s journey so far. It’s an opportunity for the team to reflect on their achievements, learn from their experiences, and set goals for the future. Taylor and her team are working tirelessly to ensure that these events are memorable and impactful.
Website Refresh and Trend Report
In addition to planning events, ASB is also working on a website refresh and updating a trend report for sales associates. The website refresh is a crucial project aimed at improving the user experience and showcasing ASB’s offerings in the best possible light. The updated trend report, on the other hand, will provide sales associates with valuable insights into the latest industry trends, helping them stay ahead of the curve.
Both these projects underscore ASB’s commitment to continuous improvement and staying at the forefront of the industry. They are a testament to the team’s dedication to providing the best resources and support to their partners and associates.
Collaboration and Building Relationships
One of the key themes that Taylor emphasizes in the video is the importance of collaboration and building relationships in the industry. She believes that success in the event planning and marketing industry is built on strong relationships – with vendors, partners, and attendees.
Collaboration is at the heart of everything ASB does. From planning events to updating their website, every project is a team effort. Taylor also highlights the importance of building strong relationships with vendors, as these partnerships are crucial for the success of their events.
Evolution of Role and Insights in Vendor Relations
Taylor also discusses the evolution of her role at ASB and the insights she has gained in vendor relations. Over the years, she has learned to navigate the challenges of vendor relations, gaining valuable insights that have helped her in her role.
She talks about the importance of understanding the needs and expectations of vendors, and how this understanding can help create successful events. Her experiences in vendor relations have also taught her the importance of flexibility and adaptability in the fast-paced world of event planning and marketing.
Creating Events with Great Experiences and Long-lasting Connections
Creating events that provide great experiences and foster long-lasting connections is at the heart of ASB’s philosophy. Taylor shares how the team focuses on every attendee as a customer, ensuring that each person feels valued and appreciated.
They prioritize attendee feedback, utilizing a vendor advisory board for input, and conduct multiple site visits for each property to ensure everything is perfect. They also learn from other industry events, constantly seeking ways to improve and provide the best experience for their attendees.
Saying Yes to Opportunities Outside of Comfort Zone
Taylor emphasizes the importance of saying yes to opportunities outside of one’s comfort zone. She believes that growth comes from challenging oneself and stepping into the unknown. She cautions against using boundaries as a crutch and encourages intentional decision-making.
Whether it’s taking on a new project or stepping into a new role, Taylor believes in embracing challenges and learning from them. This mindset has been instrumental in her success and is a key part of ASB’s culture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Taylor highlights the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and continuous learning in the event planning and marketing industry. She believes that success comes from working together, building strong relationships, and constantly seeking ways to improve.
Her insights offer a unique perspective on the industry, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes work that goes into creating successful events. Whether you’re an industry professional or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes, Taylor’s insights offer valuable lessons and inspiration.
Each week on DMJ 1 on 1, Kirby Hasseman takes on a different topic to help provide value to those looking to grow a brand or organization. This time Kirby talks talk about the importance of reading and 5 books he thinks every entrepreneur (and aspiring entrepreneur) should read.
DMJ 1 on 1: 5 Books Every Entrepreneur Should Read
Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with challenges, opportunities, and lessons. One of the best ways to navigate this journey is by learning from those who have walked the path before. This is where books come in. They offer a wealth of knowledge, insights, and experiences that can help entrepreneurs avoid common pitfalls, make informed decisions, and ultimately succeed in their ventures. This DMJ 1 on 1 discusses five must-read books for every entrepreneur. These books cover a wide range of topics, from creating scalable businesses and improving profitability, to understanding customer needs and launching successful businesses.
Reading is an investment in oneself. It not only broadens one’s knowledge but also improves communication skills, which are vital for any entrepreneur. The more you read, the more you understand the world around you and the better you can communicate your ideas, thoughts, and feelings. This can lead to increased earnings, as you can articulate your business ideas more effectively, negotiate better deals, and build stronger relationships with your clients, partners, and employees.
“E-Myth Mastery” by Michael Gerber
“E-Myth Mastery” by Michael Gerber is a must-read for every entrepreneur. The book demystifies the myths surrounding starting and running a business, and provides a clear roadmap for entrepreneurial success. Gerber emphasizes the importance of creating systems and processes in a business. These systems and processes, he argues, are the backbone of any successful business, allowing for repeatable success and scalability.
Gerber’s book is a masterclass on the importance of scalability in business. He explains that a scalable business is one that can handle increased demand without compromising performance or losing revenue. This is achieved through effective systems and processes that ensure every aspect of the business runs smoothly. By understanding and implementing the principles in this book, entrepreneurs can build businesses that are not only profitable but also scalable.
“Profit First” by Mike Michaelowicz
“Profit First” by Mike Michaelowicz is another essential read for entrepreneurs. Michaelowicz introduces an innovative accounting system specifically designed for entrepreneurs. This system, he claims, can significantly impact a business’s profitability, leading to financial success and stability.
The book also tackles the issue of entrepreneurial poverty, a situation where entrepreneurs are constantly struggling financially despite running successful businesses. Michaelowicz’s accounting system aims to eradicate this problem by ensuring that profits are prioritized. By applying the principles in this book, entrepreneurs can transform their businesses into profitable ventures.
“Buy Back Your Time” by Dan Martell
Time is a precious commodity for entrepreneurs. In “Buy Back Your Time,” Dan Martell explores the concept of delegating tasks to buy back time and focus on driving the business. Martell argues that entrepreneurs often find themselves running out of time because they try to do everything themselves. This, he says, is a recipe for burnout and business failure.
Martell suggests that by hiring the right people and delegating tasks, entrepreneurs can free up their time to focus on what they do best – driving the business. This not only leads to better business performance but also improves work-life balance. This book is a must-read for entrepreneurs looking to maximize their time and productivity.
“100 Million Dollar Offers” by Alex Hermozi
Understanding the market and customer needs is key to business success. In “100 Million Dollar Offers,” Alex Hermozi emphasizes this point. He explains how entrepreneurs can create offers that are so irresistible that people can’t refuse them. This, he says, is the secret to generating massive sales and revenue.
Orosi’s book provides insights into understanding the market and customers, and how to add value and answer objections. By applying these principles, entrepreneurs can create offers that not only attract customers but also lead to repeat business and referrals. This book is a must-read for entrepreneurs looking to create irresistible offers and drive sales.
“12 Months to a Million” by Ryan Daniel Moran
“12 Months to a Million” by Ryan Daniel Moran is a guide for entrepreneurs looking to launch a successful business and achieve a million dollars in revenue within a year. Moran shares strategies for understanding the audience, narrowing in on a specific product, and applying strategies for success.
Moran’s book is a roadmap for rapid business growth. He explains how entrepreneurs can launch a business and achieve rapid growth by understanding their audience and offering a product that meets their needs. By applying the strategies in this book, entrepreneurs can achieve their financial goals and build successful businesses.
Bonus: “Hit the Target” by Kirby Hasseman
As a bonus, Kirby recommends his own book, “Hit the Target.” This book is a guide for those looking to start or market their business more effectively. It provides insights into understanding the market, creating irresistible offers, and driving sales.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the recommended books provide a wealth of knowledge and insights for entrepreneurs. They cover a wide range of topics, from creating scalable businesses, improving profitability, delegating tasks, and understanding customer needs, to launching successful businesses. By reading these books, entrepreneurs can equip themselves with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the entrepreneurial journey and achieve success.
So there you have it! These are the 5 books that every entrepreneur should read! As always, we want to provide you with value. So if you want to create marketing campaigns (and appreciation gifts) that hit the TARGET, check out our TARGET marketing playbook here.
Each week on DMJ 1 on 1, Kirby Hasseman takes on a different topic to help provide value to those looking to grow a brand or organization. This time Kirby talks about 5 pieces of advice that he thinks are wrong! Watch now!
DMJ 1 on 1: 5 Pieces of Advice That I Think Are Wrong
There’s a lot of advice floating around out there, and while some of it can be helpful, some of it can also be misleading or even harmful. In this article, we’ll be discussing five pieces of advice that are often given, but that I believe are fundamentally flawed. These include the notions that finding your passion means you’ll never work another day in your life, that you should always go big or go home, that high school is the best time of your life, that work-life balance is attainable for everyone, and that you should always work smarter, not harder. I hope that by discussing these pieces of advice, I can help you think more critically about the advice you receive and inspire you to elevate your game.
Find Your Passion (And You’ll Never Work A Day In Your Life)
The first piece of advice we’ll be discussing is the idea that finding your passion means you’ll never work another day in your life. While it’s true that finding something you love can make work more enjoyable, it doesn’t mean that there won’t be difficult or unpleasant aspects of the job. In fact, telling kids that they’ll never work a day in their life if they find their passion can be harmful and set them up for failure. It’s important to acknowledge that there will be seasons of hard work and challenges, even in a job you love. Instead of seeking a passion that eliminates work, we should be encouraging the pursuit of a passion that makes the hard work worthwhile.
Go Big or Go Home
The second piece of advice is the concept of going big or go home. While it’s important to have big dreams and goals, the reality is that many big changes in the world are the result of consistent small changes over time. Setting unrealistic expectations of making a big impact right away can lead to unsustainable efforts and eventual burnout. Instead of going big or go home, it’s more effective to start small and keep going. This approach allows for steady progress and sustainable growth, which can ultimately lead to big changes.
High School as the Best Time of Your Life
The third piece of advice is that high school is the best time of one’s life. While high school can certainly be a fun and exciting time, telling struggling kids that high school is the best time of their life can be discouraging and prevent them from envisioning a better future. It’s important to live in the present and work towards a desired future, rather than dwelling on the past. There are many exciting opportunities and experiences beyond high school that can surpass it in terms of enjoyment and fulfillment.
Work-Life Balance
The fourth piece of advice is the notion of work-life balance. While it’s a worthy goal, the reality is that work-life balance is unattainable for most people. Striving for it can put unnecessary pressure on individuals and lead to feelings of guilt and inadequacy. There will be times when work takes precedence over personal life, and that’s okay as long as it’s temporary. It’s important to find a balance that works for each individual and to prioritize self-care and family when necessary.
Work Smarter, Not Harder
The fifth and final piece of advice we’ll be discussing is the idea to work smarter, not harder. While working smart is important, it shouldn’t be used as an excuse to avoid putting in effort. Successful people often work hard and put in the necessary time and dedication to achieve their goals. Working hard is within an individual’s control and can be a key component of success. So, while it’s important to work smart, it’s equally important to work hard.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there’s a lot of advice out there, it’s important to think critically about what you’re being told and to consider whether it’s truly beneficial. Remember, what works for one person may not work for another, and it’s okay to forge your own path. I hope that by discussing these pieces of advice, I’ve helped you to think more critically and inspired you to elevate your game.
Each week on DMJ 1 on 1, Kirby Hasseman takes on a different topic to help provide value to those looking to grow a brand or organization. This time Kirby talks about mastering the 3 R’s of business…and how branded merch can help. Watch now!
How To Master The 3 R’s Of Business with Branded Merch
Mastering the three R’s of business – retention, repeat business, and referrals – is a crucial aspect of any successful enterprise. In this article, we delve into the importance of these three R’s and how branded merchandise can be leveraged to optimize these business aspects. We’ll explore how showing appreciation to your customers can significantly improve retention, how branded merchandise can boost repeat business, and how it can also incentivize referrals, thereby contributing to business growth.
Branded merchandise is not just a marketing tool; it’s a tangible representation of your brand that customers can appreciate and remember. It’s a way to make your business more top-of-mind for your customers, increasing the likelihood of repeat business and referrals. So, let’s dive into the details and learn how to master the three R’s of business with branded merch.
Retention
Customer retention is a vital aspect of any successful business. It’s often said that it’s cheaper to keep an existing customer than to acquire a new one. However, many businesses lose customers due to perceived indifference. This is where showing appreciation to your customers comes into play.
One effective way to show appreciation is through the use of branded merchandise. It’s a tangible way to express gratitude, making your customers feel valued and appreciated. Consider creating a quarterly appreciation program for your top customers, where you can distribute branded merchandise as tokens of your appreciation. This not only improves customer retention but also strengthens your brand’s relationship with its customers.
Repeat Business
Repeat business is the lifeblood of any successful enterprise. It’s a testament to your brand’s quality and reliability. Branded merchandise can play a significant role in increasing the frequency and size of customer orders. A study showed that customers who received branded merchandise ordered 18% faster and 18% more, highlighting the impact of branded merchandise on repeat business.
Offering customers something of value, like branded merchandise, helps them remember your brand when making a purchase. It’s also important to consider where your ideal customer is when they realize they need your brand’s service. By strategically placing your branded merchandise, you can ensure that your brand is top-of-mind when your customer needs your service.
Referrals
Referrals are a powerful tool for business growth. A happy customer is the best brand ambassador, and with the right incentives, they can refer others to your business. Branded merchandise can be an effective incentive for customers to refer others.
Consider creating a referral program where customers are rewarded with branded merchandise for successful referrals. The key here is to utilize quality branded merchandise that represents your brand well. This not only incentivizes referrals but also ensures that your brand is represented positively in the eyes of potential customers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, branded merchandise is more than just a marketing piece; it’s a tool that can significantly improve customer retention, boost repeat business, and incentivize referrals. By strategically utilizing branded merchandise, businesses can ensure that they are always top-of-mind for their customers, leading to increased business growth and success.
