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What’s Behind Door Number 2136?

Room Gifts Add Buzz to an Off-Site Event

Travel experiences can be some of the most memorable events in people's lives. It doesn't hurt, however, to give participants in off-site meetings or incentive travel programs something more tangible to remember the event by.

Room gifts are an ideal way to increase the buzz during an off-site event. "We've had people run up to their rooms during an event just to see what that night's gift was and then come back down to the party," says BI's Kate Sorenson, Director of Travel Gift Services.

Popular room gifts include digital picture frames (loaded with a slideshow of photos from the event), locally selected food items, or gift cards for shopping sprees during the event. Take attendee demographics into consideration when selecting room gifts, and don't give anything that's too cumbersome to pack for the trip home.

Many companies combine an annual sales meeting with a recognition dinner during which top performers are recognized in front of their peers. A well-chosen award will be proudly displayed either in the office or at home and serve as a constant reminder of your appreciation.

Steve Huffman, Director of the Recognition Services Group at BI, says companies predominantly rewarded top salespeople with symbolic plaques and trophies 15 or 20 years ago, but the trend now is toward lifestyle merchandise. Some companies provide both.

You don't have to wait until their arrival to stir up excitement. Many companies generate anticipation for an upcoming event by handing out promotional products weeks or even months before the event.

"If it's a sunny destination, you can highlight that; if your meeting will be focused on a new product, you can play off of its benefits," says Doug Kitrell, Director of Promotional Products at BI. "You want something that helps people connect the dots and reinforces the overall message both before and after an event."

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See also in: Inside the Meeting Planning War Room

8 Off-Site Tips to Keep You on Course

All Together Now!

What’s Behind Door Number 2136?

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