PPB January 2018

are not torpedoing ourselves by using a term that these folks are very appreciative of. They do not always think of the term ‘swag’ as diminishing a brand associated with it, but rather appreciate the items that enhance the brand. To each their own, and there is plenty of room for other opinions, but I’ll stick with what works from what I’ve seen recently. Happy selling. MARK SHINN, MAS President Incentives West Newcastle, Washington PPAI 224617 I could not agree with you more. I hate the word “swag.” It has always bothered me and takes away the value of what we do and sell. I have had some clients say to me that they have received items only to bring them home to give to their kids. I quickly tell them that the item was not a good fit or that whoever gave it to them did not understand the reason or point of giving it out. DAVE BRUCE Owner Springboard Promotions Ottawa, Ontario PPAI 273292 It is a derogatory term that just proves we still have work to do. When people ask for “swag” or ask if I’m in the swag business, I respond with a smile, “I prefer to call it sensory media, ” which immediately starts a discussion. Yes, I’ve trademarked that term, written a book about it and will continue to expand on it to help enlighten all buyers—everyone’s buyers. The book has my name on it but I wrote it for everyone. Sometimes people will ask if they have offended me by using “swag” or other terms, and I assure them that they did not, that what my clients pay me to do is ask the right questions and appropriately position sensory media to ensure that it’s an investment for them, not an expense. I believe in what we do and understand the power of our media, and if they’re a serious buyer, they appreciate when we take a results- oriented, business approach. JAE M. RANG, MAS / Owner JAE Associates Ltd / Oakville, Ontario PPAI 561178 | JANUARY 2018 | 9