Men
love receiving our designs. Have you seen the looks on their faces as
they view the selected products woven between masculine colors, all
fitted inside a great container?
Their expressions remind you of a kid let
loose in a candy store. Each man can’t wait to open this special
treasure made just for him.
One year I created a holiday theme as a
thank-you gift for male clients who purchased from me during that year.
During one of my buying expeditions, I
was able to find electronic gadgets, stress-reducing squeeze balls, and
nail grooming products, all at great wholesale prices.
It was teamed
with sports-related chocolates and contained in a black and gold striped
box.
Several clients called to not only
express their appreciation but also to order the same gift to send to
their male customers. It’s wonderful when your ingenuity and
thoughtfulness turns into an opportunity that increases your revenue.
APPEALING TO MALE SENSES
Designing for men poses a special
challenge.
You must select a variety of products that are deemed
acceptable for masculine receivers and balance it with a container and
enhancements which appeal to his spirit.
Anything considered frilly or decorative
need not apply for this job.
Most designers omit star spray, onion
grass, and glittery picks. Cat tails and greenery are more suited here.
There’s no mystery about what men want.
Keep your product selections to:
-
Open-and-eat
snacks
-
Sports-related products
-
Car-themed merchandise
-
Grooming products and tools
-
Electronics (many are within your
budget)
-
Key chains and money clips
-
Novelties (fun toys)
Many more items fit into the men’s
category. Some men love plush (bears, sharks, etc.), some are part-time
chefs (barbecue products and grilling utensils), and others prefer photo
frames and executive tools that line their work stations.
Vessels that appeal to men are plentiful.
Baskets come in many shapes, and containers decorated in any of the
above themes are easily found through basket suppliers.
MANLY IDEAS FOR MAKING MONEY
There are several ways to increase your
sales of men’s designs. Here are some suggestions.
1. Ask men what they prefer. Many food
and gift products are suited for both genders, but many are not.
Use
informal surveys (face-to-face interaction when possible) to uncover the
best options.
2. Look for sports-related items. Most
men love sports, but there are caveats to this statement.
Before you go
on a buying spree, know which types of sports products appeal to the men
who will receive your designs.
3. Colors help to designate the theme.
Burgundy, navy, green, and purple enhancements are preferred. This
includes the shred, bow, and tissue paper. Such colors are easily
purchased, as both genders favor these hues.
4. Stay up to date on trends. Men desire
to be in style and in step with their peers. Include one trendy item
within a design, and you’ll create a long-term client.
5. Promote your specialty. No one knows
that you specialize in men’s designs unless you spread the word through
your business card, on your Web site, and on marketing literature.
Designing for the male species is no
mystery. Give them what they want. They’ll tell their friends, and sales
will grow.
Looking for foods and gifts
specifically for men? Our
Men's
Products Directory lists items that make them proud gift recipients.
Click here for more information.
Click here for reprint information.
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