3 tips for creating branded merch your customers will love, from small-business owners and marketing experts who have used it to build vibrant brand communities

• Branded merchandise, or swag, can still benefit businesses in the digital age.
• Effective swag is more personalized than a brand logo printed on a T-shirt or mug.
• Ideally, it's an item a customer will use frequently and be excited to share or wear.
• This article is part of "Marketing for Small Business," a series exploring the basics of marketing strategy for SBOs to earn new customers and grow their business.

When it comes to growing a business, there's definitely a wrong way to do branded merchandise.