Personalization strategies are a huge part of content marketing. As marketers, we can no longer expect to get results with generic email blasts and bulk offers sent to every person on our list.

Instead, we must consider every data point and customer interaction—and use that to deliver personalized content across marketing channels. It’s a lot of work but well worth the effort when you consider that 88% of U.S. marketers reported a measurable lift due to personalization strategies.

So why do we continue to use the same promotional items year after year with little thought given to the recipient?

Sure, tote bags and pens are nice, but they’re also ordinary. We all have a pile of them in our desk drawer or hall closet. If you’re looking to make a powerful brand impression you need to look beyond the ordinary and find products that speak to your audience on a personal level.

A recent study by the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) found that the reasons people keep promotional products is changing, particularly among Millennials. Practical product function is still important. However, personality fit and message are growing in importance among Millennials, GenX, and Baby Boomers, according to PPAI’s study.

So it’s time to stop sending the same promotional products to every prospect. Instead, ask yourself what products reflect their personality and interests? What would they use in their everyday lives? How can you brand those products in a way that they’ll remember? When you find products aligned with your audience’s personality and style, your brand will be remembered.

Not sure where to start? Here are some ideas for promotional products that may fit a few personality types on your list. 

The Techie

Techies love gadgets that make their lives simpler. So why not feed that desire with a wireless charging pad? These products come in a variety of colors and are compatible with any Qi-enabled device. We really love this charging pad because it adds a convenient phone stand to its quick, wireless charging capabilities. Quickly recharge without hunting down a cable!

The Gamer

Virtual reality viewers and headsets allow you to transform your smartphone into a mesmerizing 3D experience. The best part is that engaging with your gamer audience doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Brands can enter the virtual reality world with a VR viewer made out of paper or cardboard, which ships flat. Once you’ve built an interest among your audience, you can upgrade to a full virtual reality headset and elevate your gamers’ experience.

The Camping Enthusiast

Your camping enthusiasts will have all their essentials within reach with this Basecamp Throne. This sturdy, aluminum frame chair features a drawstring cup holder, business card/ID, retractable bottle opener, labeled pockets for a cell phone and flashlight, and an adjustable/detachable padded shoulder strap for easy carrying.

The Traveler

Know someone who loves to travel? They probably also love to share those experiences as they happen with friends and family back home. But that’s not possible when they can’t keep their devices charged up. Give the travelers on your list on-the-go charging capabilities with a universal adapter kit.

The Homebody

For those that prefer the comforts of home, think coziness and relaxation. A throw blanket makes an excellent gift. It’s universal in size and comes in many colors and packaging options.

The Originalist

Unique and unexpected products can definitely help your brand stand out, particularly with audiences who love to express their own style at every turn. Delight and inspire these individuals with products like these custom branded socks.

The Music Lover

Let the music lovers on your list listen to their favorite tunes without the hassle of cords. These wireless earbuds offer excellent sound quality so your prospects don’t have to splurge on an expensive option for themselves. These are also great for the runners and athletes on your list too!

The Instagrammer

Let them capture every moment and hold onto it instantly with these retro-inspired cameras. They include a timer to set up the perfect selfie and six different capture modes to give your photo-obsessed audience the ability to add an artistic touch to their print-worthy shots.

The Grillmaster

Every BBQ pro needs a good set of tools. So make their job a little easier with a complete set of grill tools and convenient storage case. Need items that fit a smaller budget? Try some spice kits, aprons, or digital thermometers—all of which are great gifts for the grillmasters in your list.

The Yoga Pro

For health-conscious people, consider products that fuel their healthy lifestyle. Custom branded yoga mats and other workout necessities like towels, water bottles, and pedometers show that you support the investment they're making in themselves which they’ll remember and appreciate.

Promotional Products Drive Brand Recall

Promotional products provide numerous opportunities to leverage brand reach, drive recall and engagements. But like any other marketing tactic, promotional products are most effective when they are relevant and personal.

Looking for more promotional product ideas? Shop our promotional products or connect with our team to brainstorm products that will fit your buyers and your brand.