Socks as a strategy for recruiting and employer branding

Why a simple pair of socks sometimes says more about your employer brand than any glossy brochure? At our last event, we rethought the topic of employer branding. Instead of classic marketing materials, we opted for sports socks - and hit the bull's eye.
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Ein junger Mann erhält ein paar Sportsocken von einer jungen Frau.

Inscription: «Let's move together». The label on the socks reads in English: «Warning: These socks may cause side effects. Sudden motivation to exchange ideas with colleagues, a love for learning, and the feeling of being in the right place. With us, people come first: trust, respect, and gratitude, plus a network across Switzerland where you can thrive. If you want to move something (and not just socks), let's go together.»

What sounds like a nice gimmick at first glance is actually full of strategy. Employer branding in 2026 is no longer about empty promises and brochures. It works through experiences, symbols and a clear message.

The magic behind merch

We wanted to create something that is tangible. Something that accompanies your target group in everyday life. With the Takeoff Physio event, the target group consists of young students from Belgium and Holland. While the tenth biros disappears into a drawer, young talents put on our socks for jogging or at the gym.

The message behind it is simple and powerful:

  • Setting off together: «Let's move together» is an invitation at eye level. We are saying: «Let's make a difference together» and show that the talents at SPP can and should help shape things.
  • Courage to be unconventional: For us, wearing a suit is out of the question. We want to show that we approach things in a new way and are young people ourselves.
  • Proximity: Giving away socks shows that you are down-to-earth. This breaks down barriers and creates trust - the most important currency in recruiting.

Inspiration for your own branding

This example shows that good employer branding does not require a budget of millions, but creativity and a deep understanding of the people you want to reach. Employer branding «out of the box» means asking yourself: What are people looking for? What do they remember? What puts a smile on their face? And what do we want to give them about our culture?

If your recruiting strategy is currently stagnating rather than running, it's time for a new step.

Let's start running together!

Are you facing the challenge of inspiring the right talent for your team? At SPP, we support you in leaving the beaten track and developing concepts that really suit you and your company.

Let's talk about your future

Partnership

Personal, trusting and on an equal footing with Julian Weber.

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