How Do You Define Genuine?

In the 6th grade I would only wear genuine Levi’s with the red tag; they were the “real deal” as “proved” by the tag. Currently my inbox frequently drops in messages that suggest that I’ve been bequeathed millions of dollars. Watch a television commercial or movie and you’ll now find disclaimers that despite what appears to be real– apparently it’s not. 

You’d think it would not be so hard to define what’s genuine and what’s just an illusion. Recently indulging my couch potato side, I stumbled upon an interesting definition for genuine. Country mega star Blake Shelton of The Voice, remarked in summary of a contestant’s country song performance that the contestant was “genuine”. Blake elaborated that for a country artist to connect with the audience the audience has to believe that the performer is committed to the words in that song. 

Isn’t that statement true for business? After 7 years in the promotional industry offering products, aka selling advertising solutions; I still have folks who say, “Oh I could never sell anything”. “Selling” is not a dirty word, in fact it’s a necessary component of all business regardless of the industry. Selling does not have to be associated with THE plaid jacket, slick backed hair sales person offering to “put you into” that product before you leave their location. Selling is about generating a match– it requires listening, collaborating and suggesting solutions to address need; problem solving. The branding then reflects via products the genuine message of the advertiser; committing to a brand story. When the target market connects with the message the brand is genuine. 

In an electronic environment, promotional products are a key stroke away from consumers. Our company has worked diligently to highlight value in our design work, knowledge of product safety compliance, product educational pieces and creative approaches to common challenges. We’ve acquired certifications that provide benefits to our client base such as HUB status, PPAI Code of Conduct and CAS– certified advertising specialist. Additionally we’ve invested time to build an identity within our community. ( check links on our website to learn about any of those certifications) 

Promotional Partners has taken an active leadership role within the fabric of the triangle business community sponsoring numerous organizations with our commodities of time, expertise and resources. Each April we help promote awareness for the Apex Chamber of Commerce’s annual Book Bag Bonanza.  This program is important to the local community as local business’ band together to provide students lacking resources the  basic tools required for a successful start to their academic year.   

Visit the chamber site to learn more about how to assist with this program.

As a business owner, it’s inspiring how many local businesses take time to invest in our community, helping to make the triangle a great place to live– the triangle genuinely represents the best! As we celebrate the end of 7 years this month, we thank each of you for your support.

Olivia