As the end of the year approaches, many of us think about the things we are thankful for. One way we show that appreciation is by giving a gift to our clients or employees. A holiday gift does not have to be expensive, yet it should follow certain guidelines. Here are some tips for corporate gift giving.
Gifts to Clients
Some companies choose to give gifts with their corporate logo on it. A logo should be small or understated; you don’t want the gift to look like an advertisement. If the logo is small, the recipient is more likely to use the item.
When sending a holiday card or a gift, never include your business card. Instead, include your company name in the return address on the envelope. A handwritten signature on the card is more personal than an embossed version.
Gifts to Clients with Gift Giving Policies
Know the corporate gift policy for your intended recipients. I once sent a gift to one of my clients. The client called and expressed thanks for the gift but informed me that he was not allowed to accept gifts of any kind. He graciously asked if he could return it. Knowing the policy ahead of time will enable you to give a gift within the recipient’s corporate guidelines.
Gifts That Are Meant to Be Shared
When sending a gift that you want shared with the office staff—like chocolates, a fruit basket or other food items—indicate that intention in your card. It would be easy for a manager to assume that the gift was for him or her because of the way the package was addressed.
Gifts for Employees
Give all your employees the same gift. If you gave a lavish gift last year, and the budget is forcing you to scale back this year, tell your employees that. Otherwise they might think their work wasn’t valued.
You can, of course, forgo employee gifts altogether. Some companies throw a holiday party in lieu of gifts. Others make charitable donations in their employees’ names or provide time off to catch up with holiday shopping.
Gifts for People Who Work Closely With You
Giving a special gift to someone who works closely with you is a nice gesture. A gift card from a nice department store is always appreciated, as is money. With that kind of gift, the person can pick out something he or she wants.
More Tips
If you choose to give a gift, find something that reflects the recipient’s hobbies or interests. Avoid giving a basket of smoked meats to a vegetarian, wine to someone who does not drink or gourmet chocolates to someone trying to lose weight.
Presentation does matter, so wrap your gift nicely. You can personalize the gift by including a handwritten note expressing your gratitude. That personal touch can mean as much to the recipient as the gift itself. If possible, give the gift in person.
You can express a lot with a thoughtful gift. Use these corporate gift giving guidelines to spread goodwill and cheer. When you do, others will think warmly of you.
©2007 Professional Image Management
Juanita Ecker, president of Professional Image Management, is a corporate image and business etiquette consultant. She can be reached by phone at (518) 279-9388 or online at www.professionalimagemanagement.com.
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