Suppose you do the hiring for your company. In that case, you’re already well aware that in the last few years, organizations of all sizes and industries have had to prioritize employee retention—particularly since the pandemic. The competition for talent is fierce, and keeping your valuable employees is essential for your future success. It’s no surprise then that more and more North Alabama businesses are trying SWAG (short for “Stuff We All Get”!) to boost their employees’ morale and engagement. Read on to discover how SWAG can make your company a place where people want to work long-term.
What is SWAG?
SWAG is the nickname given to promotional items and branded merchandise that companies gift to their employees, clients, and potential customers. These items often include apparel, tech gadgets, office supplies, and other goodies adorned with the company’s logo or branding.
While corporate gifts, like custom-embroidered T-shirts and hats, are commonly used for marketing purposes, they also affect employee satisfaction. In fact, a study by the Incentive Research Foundation found that 50% of employees in the country’s top-performing companies now expect to receive “non-cash rewards” (things like SWAG) from their employers.
The most famous and sought-after “SWAG bags” are probably those gifted by significant tech industry players, such as LinkedIn and X (formerly known as Twitter). But it’s not just big companies that stand to benefit; smaller local businesses in the North Alabama region can also boost employee loyalty with SWAG.
How Does SWAG Work?
This is what SWAG does:
1. Boosts employee morale: Receiving SWAG items can make your employees feel valued and appreciated. It’s a tangible representation of your company’s commitment to its staff, which aids in boosting morale and job satisfaction.
2. Fosters a sense of belonging: Employees who proudly wear or use company-branded items develop a sense of belonging to the organization. This fosters a positive corporate culture and helps reduce staff turnover.
3. Promotes company loyalty: Employees who receive good quality, thoughtfully chosen, made-in-the-USA SWAG will hopefully feel more loyal to the company. Knowing their current employer values them, they’re more likely to think twice before considering opportunities elsewhere.
4. Creates positive associations: SWAG items serve as constant reminders of the company’s mission, values, and culture. This helps employees form positive associations with their workplace, further strengthening their commitment to the organization.
5. Encourages engagement: SWAG can be used strategically to encourage employee engagement. For example, companies can reward employees for achieving specific milestones or goals with custom SWAG items, creating a sense of achievement and motivation.
What Are the Best Types of Company SWAG?
It’s important to choose SWAG items that resonate with your workforce. Here are some types of SWAG that work especially well:
1. Apparel. This is a big one, which is why so many companies choose it. Branded clothing such as T-shirts, hoodies, or caps is popular. Employees can proudly wear these items inside and outside the workplace, serving as brand ambassadors.
2. Tech. Items like custom USB drives, wireless chargers, or high-quality headphones are practical and appreciated by tech-savvy employees.
3. Office supplies. Branded office supplies such as notebooks, pens, and desk accessories can make employees feel more connected to their workspace.
4. Wellness products: In recent years, wellness-focused SWAG has gained popularity. Reusable water bottles, yoga mats, or stress relief gadgets promote employee well-being.
5. Custom awards: Recognize outstanding achievements with custom plaques, trophies, or certificates. This emphasizes your commitment to acknowledging hard work and dedication.
What’s a Good SWAG Strategy for Employee Retention?
Here are some steps you could take to implement a successful company SWAG strategy:
1. Identify employee preferences. Survey your employees to understand what they like and are interested in, ensuring you select SWAG items that serve a meaningful purpose for them
2. Set clear goals. Define your goals for using SWAG in employee retention, whether it’s reducing turnover, improving morale, or increasing engagement.
3. Design quality SWAG. Invest in high-quality SWAG items that reflect the value you place on your employees. Well-designed and durable items make a better impression.
4. Distribute thoughtfully. Present your SWAG items during meaningful events, such as work anniversaries, achievements, or company milestones.
5. Measure impact. Track the influence of your SWAG strategy on employee retention through surveys, feedback, and retention rates. Adjust your approach as needed.
Key Takeaways
Don’t underestimate the impact of SWAG when it comes to keeping hold of your valuable talent. It can be a powerful tool for employee retention. You can improve job satisfaction and loyalty by giving your workers tangible tokens of appreciation and creating positive associations with your organization. When employees feel valued and connected to their workplace, they’re more likely to stay committed. This helps to reduce turnover and contributes to the long-term success of your business.
Choose a Local SWAG Provider
You get more control over the design process by working with a SWAG company that does screen printing near you or custom embroidery, not in an anonymous factory overseas. It’s also easier to talk through any issues that may arise with the corporate gifts provider. If you’re in the Huntsville or Madison area, reach out to us at Regalo, just down the street in Hartselle, to hear how our custom embroidery and promotional printing services can create corporate gifts your employees want to brag about.
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