If you make the decision to give a gift to clients over Christmas it’s important to spend some time thinking about the gift. We’ve all received gifts at some point in our lives where we might have said thank you, smiled politely and thought privately: ‘What am I going to do with that?’
Here are some tips to help you select the right gift:
- Select a gift that relates to an achievement during the year
- Select a gift that relates to something they really enjoy doing
- Select a gift that doesn’t cost a fortune. Something personal, useful and thoughtful is likely to be more appreciated.
- Select a gift that can be wrapped. The older we get, the fewer surprises in life we get – and if we’re honest about it, we’re probably all big kids at heart. Everyone likes unwrapping something on Christmas morning.
- And for the client who has everything, perhaps give a gift to their charity of choice.
Food hampers, wine and chocolate are all popular gifts over Christmas. They are all however perhaps low on thought – everyone gives them. A cooking class, a restaurant dinner, a subscription to a gardening magazine or a lonely planet book might be no more expensive, but can have more impact, depending on the recipients interests. Magazine subscriptions are a great idea. For 12 months they can be reminded of you, providing them with access to something they enjoy.
To add your logo or not to add you logo – that’s the question.
On a hand written card or note – yes of course – add your logo. The gift is from your business and staff, so it’s important the visual identity of your business – your logo – is there.
If it’s on the gift itself, then perhaps don’t add your logo. It may look like a ‘sell’, more than a gift.
I’ve never heard anyone complaining that they’ve gotten too many gifts. So if you think giving at gift at Christmas is a good way to thank a client for their support, then do it. And if you are going to send a Christmas card, make sure it’s hand written and posted the old fashioned way. E-Christmas cards are too much like spam – not very personal, low on value and aren’t able to be displayed along side other Chritmas cards for other family members and friends to read.
Merry Christmas.
I’m gone to inform my little brother, that he should also pay a quick visit this blog on regular basis to get updated from newest information.
Hi Peter,
Great tips, thanks! I’ve also come to learn that certain gifts can be culturally sensitive too. For example; avoid giving Chinese clients (or friends) sharp objects such as knives or scissors, or a timepiece such as a watch or clock.
I also tend to avoid giving clients alcohol as a gift, or items associated with the consumption of alcohol (wine glasses, coolers etc).
I’ve found that the best types of gifts often involve giving the client an emotional experience of some kind, such as tickets to the theatre or a show, that they can enjoy with their partner.