Dear Reader,

Some might say that promotional products suppliers and distributors are a lucky bunch. For us, the Holiday Season lasts more than a few weeks÷it starts in Fall and goes for three whole months. And theyâre the busiest months of the year!

The best salespeople in the business get to the top (and stay there) by establishing certain protocols—what some companies like to call “best practices”—that seem to work time and time again. Not gimmicks, mind you, just good habits.

Not only is outerwear a sure-fire hit for Holiday incentive and thank you gifts, it’s a staple throughout most of the year. It has a high perceived (and real) value, and because people often wear a jacket or fleece item more frequently than, say, a t-shirt, the logo or decoration gets plenty of exposure.

How often do you go into a clothing store knowing precisely what shirt you want to buy—the exact brand, silhouette, fabric, color and size?

Sure, it happens occasionally; sometimes a shopper has a specific mission in mind and she knows just what she needs to fulfill it. More often, though, the buyer has a general idea of what she wants…and peruses her options before making a final decision.