Oct 11, 2012

Cool Corporate Gifts: The Benefits

Think about the last time you received a thoughtful gift. How did it make you feel?

"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." -Maya Angelou

Now is the time to start planning for the holiday gift giving season.

What are the benefits of corporate holiday gift giving?
During tough economic times it can be difficult to give your employees bonuses. A well thought out gift shows that the company appreciates its employees and is thankful for their hard work. Even when times are going well and bonuses are given out, everyone loves a nice gift. The right gift sends the message that the company is thinking about their employees and adds a personal touch.

Tip: Many company gifts up to $25 per person can be tax deducted. The IRS Publication 463 has specific details.

For employees: Let your employees know that you appreciate everything they do. Employees who feel valued bring positive energy to the workplace and work harder.

Employees will project happiness to their customers. Customers gain confidence in a business when they can see that the employees are happy. Happiness is contagious and customers are more likely to return to a business that makes them feel good.

Finally, gift giving can build a company culture that employees are proud to be part of. When your employees are proud of where they work and want to come to work, productivity and retention increases.

• Sales professionals know that a great way to get and keep people's attention is through a free lunch. The same principle applies to gifts!

Tip: Employee and client gifts can be branded with your company name. By branding gifts you ensure clients will remember your company and your brand could be exposed to the next big client.

For clients: A great gift can show that you value their business. It will help them to remember you in the future. Clients will hold on to a thoughtful gift for a long time, putting your branding right in front of them.

Give different and unique gifts each year. Clients will look forward to the exciting new thing each year, and they will continue to think about your company.

A thoughtful gift can build, mend and maintain relationships. Let them know you are thinking about them and they will think about you.

Tip: Don't forget the assistants. They will remember you and so will their bosses.

(Sources: The Icebox, CNBC, Small Biz Trends, Promotional Products Articles)