How to Engage Remote Employees

The pandemic has forced many companies to adopt remote work as their primary mode of operation. This sudden shift has brought about several challenges, including the need to build a remote employee culture that promotes collaboration, communication, and engagement. One effective way to build a remote employee culture is through the use of branded merchandise. We will explore the benefits of using merch to build a remote employee culture at your company and provide some tips on how to implement this strategy successfully.

Benefits of Using Branded Merchandise to Build a Remote Employee Culture

1.    Boost Employee Morale:
Remote work can be isolating and lonely, especially for employees who are used to working in an office environment. Branded merchandise can serve as a tangible reminder of the company's appreciation and recognition of their hard work. When employees receive merch, they feel valued, and their morale is boosted, which can help combat feelings of isolation and disengagement.

2.    Foster Team Building:
Branded merchandise can be a great way to encourage team building among remote employees. For example, you can send out matching branded t-shirts, mugs or water bottles to all your employees, encouraging them to use these products during virtual team meetings. These small gestures can help create a sense of belonging and team spirit, which can lead to better collaboration and communication among remote employees.

3.    Promote Company Culture:
Branded merchandise can also be used to promote your company's culture and values. For instance, if your company values sustainability, you can give out reusable shopping bags, branded water bottles or even coffee cups made from recycled materials. This shows that your company cares about the environment and is committed to sustainability, which can help attract and retain employees who share these values.

4.    Improve Brand Recognition:
Branded merchandise can also help improve your company's brand recognition. When employees use products with your company's logo or branding, they are essentially becoming walking billboards for your business. This can help increase brand awareness and even attract new customers or clients.

Tips for Implementing a Branded Merchandise Strategy

1.    Set a Budget:
Before implementing a branded merchandise strategy, set a budget. Determine how much you can afford to spend on merch and stick to this budget. 

2.    Choose Quality Products:
When choosing merch, it's essential to select high-quality items that will last a long time. Cheap, low-quality products can do more harm than good and may even be perceived as a reflection of the company's overall quality. Choose products that are durable, useful, and will be appreciated by your employees.

3.    Personalize Products:
Personalization can help make merch more meaningful to employees. Consider adding their name, department or even a personal message to the product. This shows that you have taken the time to consider each employee and their contribution to the company.

4.    Make it a Surprise:
Surprising employees with merch can help create a sense of excitement and anticipation. Consider sending products unexpectedly or creating a virtual "unboxing" experience during a team meeting. This can help generate buzz and encourage employees to use the products.

5.    Use Branded Merchandise as a Reward:
Merch can also be used as a reward for achieving specific goals or milestones. For example, you can give out branded jackets or backpacks to employees who have completed a major project or hit a sales target. This not only shows recognition for their hard work but also serves as a motivator for other employees to strive towards similar goals.

Choosing Branded Merchandise Your Employees Will Love

When it comes to selecting merch for remote employees, it's important to consider items that will be useful and appreciated, especially in a remote work setting. Here are some popular products that remote employees may like to receive:

1.    Tech Gadgets: Remote employees often rely on technology to stay connected and get their work done. Useful tech gadgets such as wireless chargers, portable phone chargers, and Bluetooth earbuds can be great products that employees will appreciate.

2.    Desk Accessories: Desk accessories such as branded notebooks, pens, and mousepads can help remote employees stay organized and productive. These items can also serve as a reminder of the company's appreciation for their hard work.

3.    Drinkware: Reusable drinkware such as travel mugs or water bottles can be a great way to encourage remote employees to stay hydrated while working from home. These items can also help promote sustainability and environmental awareness.

4.    Apparel: Branded apparel such as t-shirts, hoodies, or jackets can help foster a sense of team spirit and belonging among remote employees. These items can also be worn during virtual team meetings, helping to promote the company's brand and culture.

5.    Snacks and Treats: Sending a care package with snacks or treats can be a thoughtful gesture that remote employees will appreciate. This can include items such as branded bags of coffee or tea, healthy snacks, or even personalized chocolates.

Ultimately, the branded merchandise that remote employees will appreciate will depend on their individual preferences and needs. Consider conducting a survey or asking for feedback to determine which items are most likely to be well-received.

Selecting a Branded Merchandise Company

Picking a good branded merchandise company is important to ensure that you receive high-quality products that effectively promote your brand and keep your remote employees engaged. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a company:

1.    Product Range:
Choose a company that offers a wide range of products so you can find the perfect item to suit your needs. A good branded merchandise company should have a diverse product range that includes items such as apparel, office supplies, tech gadgets, and more.

2.    Customization Options:
Look for a company that offers a variety of customization options. The ability to personalize products can help make them more meaningful to your employees.

3.    Pricing:
Choose a company that offers competitive pricing while maintaining high-quality products. It's important to consider the cost of the products and any additional fees such as shipping, customization, or taxes.

4.    Customer Service:
Select a company with excellent customer service. This includes timely responses to inquiries, helpful guidance, and support throughout the ordering process. 

5.    Reputation:
Look for a company with a good reputation in the industry. Check reviews and testimonials from other businesses or individuals who have used their products or services. A company with a strong reputation is more likely to provide high-quality products and excellent customer service.

By considering these factors, you can select a branded merchandise company that meets your business needs and keeps remote employees engaged. Contact us if you would like to explore opportunities for your company. You may also want to check out our blog post, The Ultimate Tool for HR Professionals.