Meaningful Swag for your Business with James Hodgson

Episode 48: Meaningful Swag for your Business with James HodgsonIn this episode I sit down with my brother, James Hodgson, who owns the company Nish Tees in Peterborough, Ontario. He is an incredible graphic designer, silk screener and an expert on branded swag. James has 20 years in this industry under his belt, so he is an expert at all things swag. We outline the 3 biggest mistakes that he sees companies make when choosing swag for their business, and how they can be avoided. DelegatingMany business owners have the idea that there isn’t enough time to decide what the swag is for, so it’s delegated to someone else in the business, where it loses its creative input. Business’s should be thinking about the end result they would like to achieve before deciding on swag for their business. Understand the VisionCreating swag that is clear and concise is important, as is being clear about what the end result is going to look like. Taking the time to ensure that the end product matches the vision will save time, frustration and money for both you and your supplier. Expecting Champagne on a Beer BudgetYou get what you pay for. What’s important when purchasing swag for your raving fans is that you have considered all the options before making a final decision. Whatever you hand them, whether it be a giveaway, a bonus or simply a gift of appreciation tells them how you show up in your business. In the end, we want to be careful to hand out items that will be appreciated, used and valued. Spending time with your vendor to consider your options within your budget is key. Links mentioned in this episode:James HodgsonNish Teeshttps://www.nishtees.caOrange Shirt DayCommunities coming together in a spirit of reconciliation and hope because every child matters.http://www.orangeshirtday.orgAlderville First Nation Women’s ShelterTheir name is Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) Kwewag (Women’s) Gamig (buildinghttps://akgshelter.caClick Here to learn more about the Ojibwe Culturehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OjibweClick here to learn more about Anishinaabemowin languagehttps://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/anishinaabemowin-ojibwe-languageClick here to learn more about Anishinaabehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AnishinaabeMamas & Co.Your online community of smart, passionate mama entrepreneurshttps://www.mamasandco.ca/Candice Tulsieram360 Eventshttps://360events.ca/Boat House Row (clothing stores)https://boathousestores.com Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com