Today we have a guest post from Susan Heathfield, Work.com Employees Community Leader:
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The holiday season is approaching faster this year than any other year I can remember. It may be that I'm getting older or perhaps it's because Christmas and Thanksgiving paraphernalia, decorations, and gifts were out prior to Halloween this year. But, as a small business owner, this is the season during which you will want to select your holiday client and employee gifts. It is important that you select memorable gifts that remind your gift recipients of you and your company all year long. It is equally important that you see and touch the gift before you send it to ensure it meets your company's standards.
I'm not a huge fan of flowers, food, and other consumable gifts as your main customer gift of the year. The cookie was good, but hardly memorable and flowers die. But useful merchandise that carries your company logo is a gift that truly does keep on giving. From golf shirts to book ends and desk accessories to framed, signed group photographs of your staff, your gift giving opportunities are endless.
Some businesses are bucking the norm in recent years, too. Instead of sending their card or gift in the onslaught that fills December, they are sending Thanksgiving cards or New Year cards to set themselves apart. You can do the same with gifts. And, there is a second benefit to sending cards and gifts on non-religious holidays; they honor the diversity present in most workplaces.
Just keep in mind that many workplaces have a limit of $25, $50, or $75 on gifts that employees may accept. Since your first step in buying business gifts is to establish your purpose and goals, stay within their limitations so your gift goes to the appropriate person with the right message. Helen Hoefele has written an excellent guide to business gift giving occasions and gift decision making. Debbi Karpowicz Kickham talks about potential gift giving pitfalls to avoid and additional ideas to make your gift memorable. And, small business expert Frances Sharpe offers unusual and unique ideas for "when you want to give something that's as unique and original as your business" - when typical corporate gifts, such as items with a company logo or gift baskets stuffed with food items nobody wants, simply won't do the job.
