Member Spotlight - Promo Victory, President & Founder Vicki Lam

Professional History & Experience
Promo Victory is a strategic promotional marketing company. We help market brands using innovative promotional products and apparel, which involves all logo decoration methods. We are brand-focused, strategy-focused, and customer-focused. I am one of the few people who ended up doing what they went to school for. I have a bachelor’s degree in Marketing Management with 25 years of experience in Advertising and Marketing.
 
I am a Certified Advertising Specialist, and I get re-certified every three years. I am a rare species because most people in the promotional industry do not have my credentials. I have been in business for 13 years. Three years ago, on our 10th anniversary, my company won a very prestigious excellence award where I was featured on the cover of a business magazine and in a video. I also received congratulation letters from the senator, lieutenant governor, and my college president.
 
I have a strong passion for Marketing. I get to utilize my creativity and strategic thinking to bring innovation and solutions for my clients. I enjoy being a Marketing partner for my clients. They know they can count on me to solve their marketing challenges and help them build a stronger brand with the right promotional products.
 
I find that Networking and promotional products are proven to be the most effective for promoting and growing my business. Networking allows me to explore business opportunities, make new connections to expand my network, build relationships, gained business and referrals. I have met so many wonderful people through the years and had the privilege of learning so much from them. In 2011, I received the Top Female Networker Award from the New Castle County Chamber for attending the most networking events. I believed in the saying that Networking increases one’s net worth. Not to mention, it increases brand awareness.
 
On the other hand, I use promotional products to build goodwill and relationships. Every year I sent innovative thank you gifts to my best clients. They must know how appreciative I am of their business and support. Every time they use the item, they think of me and my business. That is the power of promotional products. I practice what I preach. Every year sales would increase and last year was no different. In fact, 2020 was my best year because my company generated the highest revenue while the whole promotional industry dropped 50 to 60 percent. I am grateful for the success and more grateful for my wonderful clients.
 
Some challenges that I have faced are intense competition. There are 145 promo companies in Delaware, maybe less now due to the pandemic. I overcame competition by differentiating myself and my company from the rest. There is a quote by Coco Chanel~ “To be irreplaceable, one must always be different.” Unlike 95% of our competitors who are order-takers that sell products, we think outside the box to bring exciting, innovative ideas. We have the expertise to consult and help you utilize the right promo product relevant to your brand and your target audience to market your brand more effectively.
 
We maximize marketing budgets and ROI by creating successful promotions that add impact and value, so your brand stands out from the crowd. Not all products are created equal. We research to ensure we source the right products and the best quality from the best manufacturers worldwide. We educate clients on effectively using promotional items in their marketing, building brand awareness, generating leads, driving traffic, creating goodwill, and leaving a positive lasting impression. Our clients are trained not to look at catalogs or websites because we are the human search engine. It saves them time, and time is money. Products can be purchased anywhere, but good advice is not something people can find anywhere. Good advice is what you need to make the best intelligent decisions. I am a self-taught graphic designer, so I have strong attention to detail on all decoration methods to ensure the logo and imprint look sleek, modern, and well-received. When people are working with companies who are only order takers that sell products, they tend to buy based on price and end up buying junk that is tacky that no one wants and ends up on the landfill. Frankly, people do not need or want another boring mug or T-shirt. Promo items are only effective and will generate ROI when it tells the story of the brand and appeals to the target audience. When it is unique, people will remember the brand, and it shows thoughtfulness which speaks volumes. The best deal in Marketing is not about finding the lowest price, it is about getting results.
 
At Promo Victory we work with a diverse client base nationwide, including small businesses, corporations, non-profits, health care, malls, hotels, schools, and government agencies. I am looking to work with people who value my marketing expertise and understand the value we bring to the table. I am always excited when clients need my help to develop creative and innovative promo items. It allows me to think outside the box for extraordinary ideas. I have a good eye and good taste. I even have some clients who would send me product links from online competitors because they know I will always find better quality, value, and price.
 
Chamber Experience
What motivated me to join the Chamber? It was my strong desire to build and grow my business. The chamber provides many tools and opportunities. I joined in January 2009. I have gained so many clients through the chamber over the years, so my mission has been accomplished!
 
I mostly take advantage of the referral groups and networking events. Since the pandemic, I mainly focus my time on all the virtual networking events. It is not the same experience as in-person events, but it is easier since no driving is done, no traffic headaches, and no parking issues.
 
When you’re not helping your customers, how do you like to spend your time?
I like to spend my time learning because I have a thirst for knowledge, and knowledge is power. It allows me to be resourceful in solving challenges. What you know and what you don’t know can make a big difference in your life. I find constant learning enriched my life.
 
Besides learning, I like to teach and share my expertise. I volunteer my time to the business community by teaching free marketing workshops at many non-profits to help businesses sustain and grow.
 
Member Advice
First, take advantage of all the chamber benefits to build relationships and find opportunities. Often times it’s not what you know, it’s whom you know. Networking does take time, but it is very effective and rewarding when done correctly and strategically. You never know whom you will meet.
 
Secondly, spend at least 10% of your annual gross revenue on Marketing. Remember you must spend money to make money! Spend wisely and only work with the best in the business. You can’t choose your family, but you can select your vendors, so choose wisely, and it will save you headaches and allow your business to thrive.
 
Thirdly, always differentiate your business. Give people compelling reasons to work with you instead of your competitors. Sell on value, not price.
 
Lastly, learn as much as you can because knowledge is the power that will keep your business thriving!
 
To learn more about Promo Victory, please visit their website at www.promovictory.com.