6 Creative Ways to Keep Your Brand On Top of Consumer Minds
Consumers are bombarded with messages every minute—emails, ads, popups, product placements, the works. But while attention is fleeting, memory lingers. And that’s the real goal, isn’t it? To have your brand be the one they remember. The one that made them smile. The one they trust.
To stay top-of-mind, you don’t always need to shout louder. Sometimes, you just need to show up in unexpected, clever, or genuinely useful ways. Do you want to know what these could be?
Well, in this post, we discuss ideas that are built to help you do just that, without being pushy. So, read on!
Giveaways That People Keep
There’s no shortage of branded pens, cheap tote bags, or lanyards floating around. But how many of those stick around?
Consumers today want giveaways that feel thoughtful, useful, or fun. That’s where something like Custom Shaped Stress Balls come in. You can create a stress ball shaped like your product, your mascot, or even your logo.
Add bold colors, soft textures, or playful details. Whether you’re at a wellness event or trade show, these stress balls offer a low-key way to stay on someone’s desk—and in their daily routine.
Some brands work with trusted providers who help design and manufacture everything from scratch. That includes prototype design, revisions, and final production. It’s not just about squish appeal. These little things turn into walking (or squeezing) brand reminders.
Tap Into Packaging That Sparks a Smile
Don’t underestimate what happens after the sale.
When someone opens a package and finds a fun note, a hidden QR code, or a smart design touch, it sticks. Branded packaging that feels personal can be a game-changer. Even something as simple as a thank-you tag with a branded quote can earn a second glance—and maybe even a post.
One study by Dotcom Distribution showed that 40% of consumers are more likely to recommend a brand with premium packaging. That’s not fluff. That’s your brand making an impression before they even touch the product.
Bring Your Brand Into Their Daily Routine
Brand exposure doesn’t have to mean giant billboards. Sometimes, it just means showing up quietly where people spend time.
- Coffee mugs on the morning desk
- Notepads by the phone
- Branded magnets on the fridge
- Stress toys near the laptop for midday breaks
These are soft impressions, but they stack up. When someone sees your logo day after day, it becomes familiar and more trusted.
And it’s even better when your branding feels fun, relaxed, or purposeful—not salesy.
Keep It Playful: Surprise + Delight Still Works
Every brand says it wants to “stand out.” But standing out doesn’t always mean making noise.
Sometimes, it means sending a playful branded item just because. A quirky stress ball with a relatable quote. A squishy toy with your logo hidden in the base. These surprise touches create joy, and that joy gets remembered.
This tactic is especially effective with long-term clients or high-touch partners. A little unexpected delight goes a long way toward loyalty.
Sponsor Experiences, Not Just Events
Branded booths have their place. But smart brands go beyond that.
Instead of a standard table, consider sponsoring a lounge area at a conference. Fill it with relaxing music, snacks, and branded gifts. Not only will attendees spend more time there, but they’ll also associate your brand with that moment of calm.
Health expos, employee wellness days, school functions—there are plenty of moments where a thoughtful gift or reward will be more appreciated than a sales brochure.
Keep Messaging Light, Simple, and Visual
Your branding doesn’t have to speak in full sentences.
Playful visual cues, bold colors, and clever taglines work just as well. Especially on physical products, less really can be more.
If you’re handing out custom stress balls or mugs, think of how that item will look from across the room or on camera. Is the message catchy? Is the logo tastefully placed? Would someone keep it on their desk?
Simple, clean branding works harder than you think.
Final Thought: Brand Recall Is Built, Not Bought
At the end of the day, your goal isn’t to be loud—it’s to be remembered.
Each touchpoint, from the way you package your product to the giveaways you choose, shapes how people think about your brand. It’s not just about putting your name out there. It’s about how that name makes them feel.
So give them something to smile about. Something they’ll keep, use, and maybe even show off. It’s those quiet moments that keep your brand right where it belongs—on their mind.