Guest post by Jayde Ferguson of Perth, Australia
The holiday season is around the corner and now is the time businesses are brainstorming gift ideas for both their clients and staff members.
So what’s it going to be this year? Another cheap bottle of champagne, the box of chocolates that never fails to disappoint (except for the non-chocolate lover of course), or maybe a last-minute gift that your client or employee is going to tuck away in the back of the cupboard?
You promised yourself that this year would be different – this year, it’s time to make a positive brand impression. We look at the dos and don’ts of corporate gift buying to help you along the way.
Do Give Practical Gifts
There is nothing worse than giving gifts your recipients have absolutely no use for. Not only is it a waste of money, it shows no thought has gone into it which can reflect badly on your company. Corporate gift ideas that provide clients and employees with a useful benefit go a long way.
Don’t Choose Quantity over Quality
Every gift you give your clients is a reflection of your company, so it’s essential that you choose quality over quantity. It’s possible to keep costs reasonable without looking too cheap so no matter what the gift is, remember that quality is king.
A small gift basket can be ideal – especially if you take the time to get creative and tailor it to suit recipients’ individual tastes. There’s a good chance that your clients and employees will appreciate your effort.
Do Buy a Quality Card and Personalise It
Buying a good quality card and handwriting a greeting on the inside makes a big difference. Most people prefer cards that have been personalised. Make sure it’s not typed up and you sign it personally with a short message inside. Handwriting the addresses can demonstrate that you have gone the extra mile.
Don’t Diminish Your Gifts with Cheap Packaging
The way you package your presents is just as important as what is actually inside. Again, it portrays your company’s image so presenting it nicely or having your present professionally wrapped will make a good impression. A great gift can be easily be diminished with cheap or tacky-looking wrapping.
Do Consider the Giving Process
With so much thought going into what presents you’re going to buy your clients and employees, the actual giving process can be easily overlooked. The holidays are about giving and this message can get lost quickly in the busy rush of things.
If it’s possible, hand delivering your gifts will go a really long way. It’s the best opportunity to show your recipients how much you value their support, hard work, their time and their business. A successful company thrives on its employees and clients, so take that extra time to show your appreciation and think about your giving plan before you make any gift purchases.
Don’t Send Your Cards During the Christmas Rush
We all know how it gets at Christmas time – people become busier, some take an early vacation, and many of us can easily get bombarded with all the last-minute things to tie up before a well-deserved break.
Because of this, it’s important to get your cards (and presents) out earlier. Sending clients holiday cards right in the middle of mail rush can result in your message being easily lost or forgotten.
Do Update Your Client and Staff Lists Before You Send Anything
It seems obvious, but you would be amazed at how easily this is forgotten in the rush of things. Make sure you check everything, from mailing addresses to people’s positions. Don’t assume the information has stayed current.
Don’t Buy without Prioritising
Not every member of your staff and everyone you do business with needs to receive expensive gifts. If there are a lot of people on your list, prioritise and consider giving top executives or clients high-end gifts and others a less costly option.
If budgets are tight, consider alternatives like special product or service discounts for clients.
Do Be Aware of Religious Beliefs
This is an important one for both your clients and staff members because not everyone celebrates Christmas. For this reason, it’s a good idea to write, “Happy Holidays” on your cards as opposed to “Merry Christmas” if you are unsure of their religious beliefs.
Editor’s notes:
Hanukkah begins the evening of November 27 this year and ends on December 5. You’ll want to get your cards and gifts out early for Jewish colleagues, customers, supporters, and friends.
For U.S.-based readers, check out our custom holiday cards and gifts that make a positive brand impression!
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This post was written by Jayde Ferguson who writes for Boxt, Perth’s online gift shop for a variety of gifts delivered to your front door Australian wide.