There’s power in saying thank you. It might seem simple, but the evidence is clear. Take the workplace, for example. Employees who are thanked and recognized for their work are more likely to be happy, feel their work has meaning and purpose, and be engaged at work. They’re also far less likely to be looking for a new job.
For those giving thanks, the feeling of gratitude has its own power. Gratitude can help physical health and well-being, calm nervous systems, improve communication and simply make people happier. The end of the year is a perfect time to share gratitude. And budget promotional items can help—even if resources are limited. Let’s explore ways to say thanks to those who’ve contributed to your success in 2024.
Build a workplace gift pack
Delight clients or colleagues who spend time in an office with a gift pack. Choose affordable promotional products that are also useful and can be immediately put into action. A phone stand is a handy desktop accessory and a jotter set will help them keep their thoughts organized in the new year. A highlighter is colorful and fun (and perfect for multi-taskers). A gift card to their favorite local lunch spot completes the package.
Assemble the items in a branded drawstring pouch and attach a personalized thank-you note. Arrange for the gift to be on their desk at the start of a Monday to begin the week with a smile.
Creatively pack your promotional item
Show volunteers, donors or supporters your creative side by giving promotional items that double as a container for their thank-you gift. A campfire mug, for example, can hold a small bouquet of flowers, providing temporary beauty and a long-lasting keepsake. A vacuum mug can be a carrier of a gift card, chocolates or another treat. Adorn with a small bow and include a thank-you note. A pub glass can be a vessel for another budget promotional item, like a T-shirt. The result can be an impactful show of appreciation.
Tailor your gift to your brand
When your goal is not just to say thanks but do so in a way that represents your organization or industry, affordable promotional products can hit the target. A contractor might send clients or customers a tape measure and thank-you card at the end of the year. A car-shaped air freshener can express gratitude from an auto dealership or repair shop.
A gym or fitness studio can let its longtime members know their loyalty is appreciated by offering a water bottle and a discount on the coming month’s fee. The same gift can be given to employees but add a rolled-up cooling towel and swap the membership discount with a gift certificate for a massage.
Create an experience to show appreciation
Close the year with a celebration for employees, volunteers, supporters or others key to your organization’s success. Set up a coffee, tea and beverage bar or hire a barista to come to the office for the day. Provide drinks in travel tumblers and set aside time for sipping and socializing. Or invite the group to a get together at a local winery for after-hours fun. Don’t just send out an online meeting invite—slip the invitations into wine tumblers and distribute to staff.
If a winery tour isn’t their thing, invite the group to a sporting event as an expression of gratitude. Announce the plans at the end of a meeting and distribute drawstring sportpacks and can coolers to build excitement.
Appreciation is good for everyone
Just about everyone within an organization likes to hear “thank you.” As a leader, you can give employees, supporters and others a boost with a simple expression of appreciation. And budget promotional items offer something for recipients to hang on to—and remind them of your sentiment.