If you believe in “Pay it Forward” consider joining Motor City Connect for Blood, Sweat and Gear campaign. Blood, Sweat and Gear is a three day push organized by Motor City Connect to motivate its largely suburban professionals following to give blood, sweat it out with the Blight Busters or donate money to buy school supplies and gear.
The three day campaign starts August 12th supporting three Detroit Charities:
Blood - The American Red Cross of Southeastern Michigan
Sweat - Motor City Blightbusters
Gear - Operation Kid Equip
The "OFFICIAL KICK OFF" of Blood, Sweat and Gear 2010! Monday, August 9 2010 starting at 6:00pm at BD's Mongolian BBQ - Royal Oak, Michigan. $20.00 and that includes ALL YOU CAN EAT stir fry, salad, soup and soft drinks. The balance of the money will be donated to support Operation Kid Equip...aka GEAR.
Terry Bean co-founder of Motor City Connect has a call out to bloggers in Detroit to help spread the word about Blood, Sweat and Gear 2010. Business Gifts don't always have to be funds. You can roll up your sleeves to help a worthy cause. Or if your skill is social networking you can help by getting the word out.
To learn more about Blood, Sweat and Gear check out the Motor City Connect website link http://motorcityconnect.groupsite.com/group/MCCRGS
Or view this recent article by Stephen Clark from (WXYZ):
http://www.wxyz.com/dpp/news/region/detroit/social-media-gets-socially-responsible-in-detroit
Does your company "Pay it Forward"? Leave us a comment about your current community outreach.
We're sharing our favorite sales quotes from Twitter friends. These are in no particular order but they inspire me and maybe you too!
1. “Trouble is only opportunity in work clothes.” - Henry Kaiser
2. “If you're going through hell, keep going.” -Winston Churchill
3. “When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change." - Wayne Dyer
4. “Things may come to those who wait, but only what's left behind by those that hustle.” -Abraham Lincoln
5. “A great leader's courage to fulfill his vision comes from passion, not position." - John Maxwell
6. “Learn to listen. Opportunity sometimes knocks very softly." - Jackson Brown
7. "Those who say it can't be done are usually interrupted by others doing it." - James Baldwin
8. "People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing – that’s why we recommend it daily." - Zig Ziglar
9. "A man is not measured by how much he can take and stand but by how fast he regains once fallen." - General George S. Patton
10. "Action is the antidote to Despair." - Joan Baez
11. “Security is mostly a superstition. It does not exist in nature... Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all." - Helen Keller
12. “Action is the foundation key to all success." - Pablo Picasso
Here are a few more favorites but the author is unknown. If you know the author please leave a comment for us and let us know, or share your own favorite quote!
"Win fast or lose fast."
"Whether you think you can do something, or you think you can't...you're absolutely right."
"What would you attempt to do if you know you could not fail?"
It’s a great thing when business isn’t always “business.” A few weeks ago my sister-in-law Amanda was frantically pulling together her wedding. In a matter of a couple of months she had bought the dress, found the place, ordered the invitations, and pulled all the other little odds and ends together.
After looking over some options, she and her fiancé Shawn had decided that they’d like to give pint beer glasses as wedding favor. Unfortunately it was just three weeks before the wedding, and the one store they were going to get glasses from couldn’t deliver them on time.
This is where Imaginar Gifts stepped in. I found several options for glasses that were within their budget. Shawn and Amanda worked through the design they wanted and our graphic designers cleaned it up and put it in the appropriate file type. The order was placed, and before we could even get a tracking number I got a call from Amanda that she had received all of the glasses – and they were great!
Here is the final product:
The glasses are solid and weighty – they’re of great quality and Amanda and Shawn were happy – which made me happy. I know it’s difficult to order items online. You’re never sure of the quality or the turnaround time. And when you’re planning for an event with a deadline, it adds even more stress to the shopping experience.
That’s why we’re here. Whether you’re looking for promotional products, trade show giveaways – or a wedding favor! – we are here to make sure you get exactly what you want, with ease and with as little stress as possible.
Don’t struggle any more with your next event. Talk to us!
Services for Event Specialists
Branding is not just about being different. It is sending a message to the marketplace and clients about who you are as an organization, product or person. Recently I attended an industry tradeshow with hundreds of manufacturers whose products are used for imprinting brands.
While I was certainly checking out product quality and other factors such as delivery times for clients, I was seriously looking for products that help celebrate our clients' brands. Each of our client organizations has a unique culture and personality. What might be a great promotional product for one company could be a poor choice for another.
Brand building begins with awareness and needs to be consistently presented. If your company has a hip, youthful culture or a very conservative approach, then the promotional products you use to promote your brand could be very different. Understanding your customer is important when selecting a promotional product for your brand. You should think about the lifestyle of your client and how they will use the promotional product with your branding.
Ask yourself these tough questions:
- Who are you and what do you believe in as an organization?
- On what levels you do want to connect with your customers?
- Where do you want your clients to be thinking about you? When they attending meetings with others or at their desktop?
Branding is about connecting with people at an individual level. Here at Imaginar Gifts we pride ourselves on selecting the right product options to celebrate our clients' brands and campaigns. If you are looking for creative ideas on promoting yourself, your company or a campaign give us a call. We brainstorm for your specific objective and help you sort out from thousands of promotional product options.
For a complimentary consultation, email us at contactus@imaginargifts.com
What was your favorite company brand promotion? Leave us your comments to share!
Recently I was at a tradeshow seeking out new product ideas for our clients and met Lizie Jones from Logo Mats Inc. I was really impressed with the quality and variety Logo Mats manufactures. Now Imaginar Gifts is an authorized distributor for Logo Mats.
You can really brand grand with your logo on these mats which are available in many shapes and sizes. I asked Lizie if she could share some additional details with our readers. If you would like a custom quote email us at contactus@imaginargifts.com or view some additional information with this online catalog. http://logomats2010.ecatalognow.com/publication/?i=30214
Lizie shared with me some of her thoughts on why your organization may want to consider Logo Mats.
"Every brand should take advantage of logo mats. Why? These multipurpose advertising mediums do many tasks including keeping floors clean and safe while also building name recognition and brand awareness.
Want to pop your promotion or enhance the ambiance of your front door? Do this with our broad mat selection ranging from counter mats that can produce photo-graphic quality images, to outdoor mats that are UV resistant. "
So where can you use our mats? Well- hospitals are a great place. Hospitals are particularly concerned with providing a clean and safe environment for their patients. Well- that is exactly what logo mats can do. Did you know that by placing a wheel-chair accessible “scraper” type mat at the front door of the hospital, you can keep dirt and grime out of the hospitals atmosphere?
Do you know how much money it costs to remove a single pound of dirt from a building? According to the International Sanitary Supply Association, the estimated cost of removing a single pound of dirt from a modern building can exceed $600! That is a lot of money! By spending an average of $250 for a mat that will last about 5 years- you can save the hassle and money- do the math!
Take a look at our scraper mat in the image above also knows as our Super Scrape Impressions mat. Our Super Scrape Impressions mat is suggested for outside/high traffic areas. When making this mat we put the rubber, logo, and thermoplastic material into a press, just like you put waffle batter into a waffle iron. Once the mat is pressed it comes out having a waffle like pattern. The bi-level surface that is created during this process is what creates the “scraping” effect. This mat is printed via a 4 color process and is able to product photo like quality images. PMS color matching is available on this product and there are unlimited amount of color options on this mat.
So whether you are a hospital, school, restaurant, retail store, fitness center, tanning/nail/hair salon, fundraiser program, etc.- let us know how we can help generate brand awareness for your company while protecting your floors at the same time. Go ahead and kill two birds with one stone, you will be happy that you did."
Best Regards,
Lizie Jones
National Sales Manager | Logo Mats, Inc.
A great event was co-hosted by EWGA (Executive Women's Golf Association) and Inforum on May 24th at Northville Hills Golf Club. EWGA is a non-profit organization that provides opportunities to women to learn, play and enjoy golf for business. Inforum, a professional women's alliance, provides programming and networking opportunities to business women.
A panel discussion from industry experts provided tips for women on golfing for business. Statistics show "women who golf for business close more deals as a result of increased rapport and trust built with clients by playing golf."
Here are some key tips shared at the event to keep you on course:
1. The social skills in golf are just as important as physical skills. Take the necessary steps to adequately prepare for your business golf event: Include directions, time, dress-code and contact information of the golf course and any interesting information about the course design in your invitation. If there will be time to warm up at the driving range before the round, your guests will be just as interested in this as where the luncheon or dinner is.
2. Arrive at the club before your guests do so you can welcome them.
3. Don't be too competitive.
4. Wagering is integral to golf, a way to build camaraderie. Accept it and keep the stakes low. Make sure you settle your bets at the end of the round.
5. Tell them or show them that you play. Make sure you include the fact that you play golf on your resume.
Janina Jacobs, contributing editor for www.TheAposition.com, suggests you invite yourself to play. Sometimes women are excluded from business golf because it is unknown that you want to play. Janina also suggests proper attire for your body type. "Consider a tailored fit and think about what might be hanging out when you bend over".
Joel Koviak, Sales Representative at Callaway Golf Sales Company, shared that a "trend in women's golf is as many new women come into the game, just as many are leaving and the golf industry is working hard to make the game friendly for women."
Colleen Fitzgerald Division Leader - Benefits Outsourcing, Towers Watson Inc., stated that "it's ok to ask what level of game the other players have, instead of being mismatched in a scramble."
Business golf is about developing relationships that give you the ability to close deals and work more closely with clients, suppliers and potential hires. Sending a small token in memory of your round together is a nice touch. A framed photo of your foursome or useful golf item is especially appreciated when unexpected. If you're looking for an interesting golf gift for women check out this link to golf gifts for in our store. http://store.imaginargifts.com/Golf-s/96.htm
We include a gift card from you, do gift wrapping and help you make the day most memorable. Or if you are contributing to an outing contact us for logo branded golf items at contactus@imaginargifts.com
Panel discussion of industry experts included at Tee it up for Business included:
Carrie Jensen UDM Titans Golf Team alumni, BCBS
Janina Jacobs Founder EWGAMD, Owner at Capers Steakhouse
Terri Ryan City of Southfield Head Golf Pro & UDM Titans Head Golf Coach
Dana Burnstein Annual Golf Event for Gary Burnstein Community Health Clinic
Elena Ford Director Global Marketing Sales & Service Operations, Ford Motor
Colleen Fitzgerald Division Leader - Benefits Outsourcing, Towers Watson
Joel Koviak, Sales Representative, Callaway Golf Sales Company
Customers want to be contacted - just enough.
When out for the evening in a nice restaurant you want your wait staff to be attentive, informative and around when you want them. But you don't really want them to join you for dinner. Business clients expect the same from their vendor sales contacts, to be contacted just enough, not bombarded. Many buyers are interested in a good experience with their vendors. They want to work with people who are smart, friendly, fun and available when they are needed.
If you have complex, long-term sales processes to bring clients on board with your products and services, you may want to add some additional thought to how you reach out to clients.
10 Ways to stay in-touch with Key Account Clients
1. You have heard it before: "Always be giving!" What can you offer your client? Maybe an introduction to an industry expert? Your client probably has networking goals also. How about an invitation to attend an industry event with you? You don't always have to be the host to extend an invite.
2. Send a link to a good article your client might enjoy. Tell them why you thought they would find it interesting.
3. Educational opportunities are always welcome. Can you host a webinar or give a talk at an event? Give an educational talk at a team meeting for your client.
4. Send them something nice in the mail. Yes, for no reason! Just so they know you are thinking of them.
5. Are they a good prospect for a case study with your organization? Many clients enjoy the lime-light! How can you engage on a new level?
6. Get to know their friends. Your client has supporters within their organization. Can you get to know their boss and others they work with? How about their industry peers from other organizations you might want to know? Host a small outing like a foursome for golf so you can really get to know them. You might suggest you bring someone new for them to meet and they do the same.
7. Leave clients wanting more of your time, not wishing you would stop hanging around so much. Knowing when to back off is important. Remember to give your clients some space.
8. Introduce a new service offering your client does not know about your organization. This can also be an opportunity to engage others within your clients company. Venture in unchartered waters!
9. Spend time learning more about their industry and business. Attend an event or tradeshow to gain a better understanding of your client's perspective. Offer to observe field operations or make a site visit to enhance your understanding of the client's pain points. Sit in on help desk calls or spend a few hours in their shop. Then share what you learned with your client. Clients who have a sincere interest in a relationship with you will be impressed by your level of care.
10. Be a real person and get to know about their life. Learn about their family, hobbies and life passions. You might be surprised that you have something in common that you never would have imagined.
Business Gifts don't always have to be tangible. There are a various ways to add value to your client's career.
For additional ideas on keeping in-touch with key clients, download our Kit Marketing Planning Guide.
Have plans for a company event this summer? Show off your brand in a big way!
These Vendor Tents are available in a variety of colors and sizes ready for imprinting and come with a matching imprinted table cloth for Free! This offer is good until June 18th.
The table covers are made of the same material as the vendor tent tops, 600d polyester which is VERY durable, water resistant and flame retardant. These are perfect for trade shows, selling merchandise, special events, on-sites and company outings.
If you are looking for matching apparel we can assist you with this also. Our graphic design department can make it easy for you. Just share your concept with us and we'll bring your vision to life!
Direct marketing solutions and concepts for any event.
If you would like more information email us at contactus@imaginargifts.com or call toll free 877-480-4774
Depending on your industry, acceptable clothing in the dog days of summer can be vary especially if you are often visiting client sites. The culture of your client's organization can give you the best clues on what to wear to a meeting or event.
Those in the fashion industry can wear trendy clothes, but the rest of us should err on the conservative side. Ever wonder why the CEO is wearing a polo shirt and the salesmen looks like he's dressed for a formal interview?
8 Tips on what to wear this summer for business casual:
1. Dress for the occasion. If you are attending an all day strategy meeting at a client site on their casual Friday, it's perfectly ok to ask your host if your team can dress business casual. Your client host will tell you what is acceptable. Make sure you give a clear explanation to your team as to exactly what "business casual" means at the client site. If you expect executive management from their organization and yours to be in attendance, make sure everyone will be comfortable with the dress code for the day.
2. Polo shirts with your company logo are acceptable in many casual settings. Tradeshows, summer conferences, golf outings, company picnics and events are perfect opportunities to brand your team. It can be a very impressive visual to view a sea of your company colors at an event. Depending on the department you are calling on polo shirts might be the norm. Information technology departments often are dressed in business casual. Many clients appreciate a gift of your company branded wearables as a sign of your partnership. A good key account strategy includes your clients spreading your message for you.
3. Casual does not mean sloppy. Choose clothes with a flattering fit and make sure they are neatly pressed. When selecting branded clothing for your teams, consider how it will look on all team members large and small, men and women. You would be surprised at how often women are asked to wear branded shirts much too large for their size. Yes, we will wear them but we will not be happy or comfortable in them.
4. Before you dress casual, check your daily planner to make sure you don't have any meetings that require formal business attire for the day.
5. Jeans are never a good choice for outside sales folks. Black or tan cotton pants with a crisp crease will make you feel more in tune with what is acceptable. Linen looks nice on the store mannequin but it only takes an hour of real life before you look like you slept in your suit the night before and have no idea what an iron is.
6. It's important to not overlook your accessories. Shoes that are appropriate for your outfit and still suitable for business are important. Avoid sexy sandals and open-toed shoes. Don't wear your favorite worn-out athletic shoes. Buy a new pair if needed. If you are going sailing, golfing or to a beach picnic, remember - this is still a business outing.
7. Consider your jacket or sweater, also. Sometimes it can be chilly at a conference or event. Make sure your outerwear goes well with your outfit and is still appropriate for business casual. Consider branding windbreakers, blazers and sweaters as well as the traditional polo shirt.
8. Women should consider a lighter hand with make-up and hair when attending outdoor summer business events. You don't want to look like you just melted.
Looking for branded clothing for your company events this summer? Check out our online catalog at http://www.sportswearcollection.com/imaginargifts
Our graphics design department can help with your artwork for embroidery or silk screening. Give us a call for a custom quote and consultation at 877-480-4774.
Happy Administrative Professionals Day!
We're taking this time to celebrate the winners of our Best Admin contest. We'd like to thank everyone that entered. There are so many wonderful admins out there, and we're happy to hear how much you appreciate each and everyone one of them. And though not everyone could win, please remember to let your admin know how valued they are. A compliment goes a long way!
And now, our winners!
Alexis, RDA Enterprises - New York, NY
Robert D. tells us that she's only been with him 45 days. I think that really says something to the quality of work she provides that she is able to make such an impact on a company in so little time. Robert says "My productivity is up 110%. Why? She is not only very well organized but she is working with me to prioritize the tasks. She truly makes me a machine to crank out tasks! My Sales, My Personnel reviews, My Projects I design, My expansion project, all have improved 110% within the 45 days she has been here. Alexis is very creative and very intelligent and is not afraid to try! 10. She truly is becoming my Right Hand Person."
Kyndra, Covance - Indianapolis, IN
Beth J. sent us a "sun shiny" note about Kyndra which made me feel as though if I ever set foot in Covance's office, I would be greeted with Kyndra's sunny smile and warm disposition. A welcoming frontline person makes all the difference in your work day. Beth tells us that Kyndra "sets the tone by bringing sun shiny positivity to the office. She is organized to the nth degree and takes pride in everything she touches."
Alaine, Dr. Frank J. Greene, MD - Bloomfield Hills, MI
Pam G. let us know that Aliane had some big shoes to fill when she stepped into this office after the death of their long-time secretary. Making patients feel comfortable and relaxed is a unique quality to find in a doctor's office, and Alaine does just that. "Alaine will go beyond the call of duty to make sure patients come in, follows up with them to make sure whatever needed to be done got done and even gives them a hug if they need it. She really has a heart of gold" Pam tells us.
Honorable Mention: Carole, Dykema - Bloomfield Hills, MI
Darlene C. let us know that Carole has been "on going above and beyond with fundraising efforts for my brother's liver transplant." Some people go the extra mile outside of the normal work routine. Carole moved beyond her everyday task list to reach out and do more for her co-worker and her family.
Congratulations to you all!
Thanks to each and every assistant out there for all the work you do. You come in early and get the paperwork started. You stay late to pull things together for that big meeting. You do more work than is on your job description. You are the person that everyone comes to when there is a problem. You are the contact person, the scheduler, the butcher, the baker and the candlestick maker. I know it's a hard job to do, and you're always doing it with a smile. You are appreciated!
Check out our custom gift wrapping options on the link below. We will design just for you.
Custom Packaging and Gift Wrapping Services