If you’re deliberating on whether corporate gift-giving is worth the effort this year, let us assure you that it most certainly is. When executed correctly, corporate gifting presents a unique opportunity for brands to strengthen relationships and foster loyalty through thoughtful tokens of appreciation.
However, the key lies in understanding the unspoken etiquette of corporate gift-giving. If your gift doesn’t resonate well with a strategic partner or employee, it can do more harm than good.
As Lou Elliott-Cysewski, Co-Founder and CEO of Coolperx, wisely advises, “Ensure that the intentions of giving and pleasing take precedence over your desire for self-promotion. Too often, Coolperx receives orders for gifts that are essentially glorified business cards with oversized company logos. Remember, this is about showing appreciation and gratitude. Promoting your brand subtly is an added bonus.”
Fortunately, if you’re perusing this guide, you won’t encounter that issue. We’ve compiled a carefully curated list of the essential dos and don’ts of corporate gifting to help you avoid any potential missteps.
1. Do: Put Thought Into Your Corporate Gift
While it may sound like common sense, thoughtful gifts are the ones that leave a lasting impression. We understand that providing personalized gifts for every individual can be expensive, but you can achieve a similar effect by selecting an item that you yourself would be thrilled to receive. To reap long-term benefits from corporate gifting, thoughtful planning is required to find the right fit.
“In the corporate arena, thoughtfulness is a strategic asset. It’s a way to stand out, be memorable, and strengthen partnerships,” as noted by Max Ade, CEO of Pickleheads. “Thoughtful gift-giving is an investment in the future of your business relationships.”
Initiate the planning process well in advance and seek feedback from trusted advisors to come up with ideas. Although it can be challenging to find a gift that wows everyone on your team, customized gifts have a way of making each individual feel special.
2. Don’t: Make the Gift Feel Like a Swag Bag
A good rule of thumb is to avoid giving corporate gifts that you would typically distribute at an event. This doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate some tasteful branding; just be cautious not to overdo it. Overly branded gifts tend to feel more about the giver than the recipient. It’s all about striking the right balance.
Shelley Hancock, Chief Beauty Officer of Shelley Hancock Consulting, puts it succinctly: “While branding is important, there’s a fine line between a thoughtful corporate gift and one that feels like a marketing ploy. Aim for the former to make a valuable impact. There are plenty of scenarios where promotional hats and reusable bags are a smart choice, but corporate gifting just isn’t one of them.”
It’s easy to slap your brand on almost anything, but it’s best to reserve those items for giveaways. Corporate gifts offer a chance to show appreciation and build connections.
3. Do: Establish a Budget for Corporate Gifts
Like most large-scale projects, corporate gifting can become expensive without a predefined budget. Without financial boundaries, it’s tempting to overspend on gifts, especially when you aim to impress or maintain crucial relationships. It’s a wise move to begin with a budget for almost every business decision.
“Budgeting for corporate gifts is not only a financial decision but also a reflection of your commitment to ethical business practices,” affirms Dean Arbit, Co-Founder and CEO of bud.com. “It helps you allocate resources efficiently while fostering transparency.”
Taking this extra step can be advantageous for your relationships as well as your financial bottom line. Establishing an early budget for corporate gifts should provide a sense of relief. Instead of complicating the task, it simplifies the process as you narrow down your options.
4. Don’t: Give Anything That Could Be Misconstrued
It may be hard to believe that a company would select corporate gifts that could offend someone, but it’s easy to overlook certain sensitivities. To play it safe, avoid personal items such as clothing or perfume and excessively expensive gifts that might be viewed as bribery.
Datha Santomieri, Co-Founder and Vice-President of Steadily, who specializes in landlord insurance needs, wisely advises, “The last thing you want is for your corporate gifts to raise suspicion or have a negative impact. Avoiding gifts that could be misinterpreted protects your reputation and preserves the integrity of your relationships. The primary objective is to show appreciation for valuable business relationships while maintaining a high standard of professionalism.”
Keep in mind that not all cultures have the same perspectives on corporate gifts, so it’s important to consider the backgrounds of everyone on your team. Review company policies on gift-giving and offer gifts only at appropriate times, such as holidays, anniversaries, or after successful collaborations.
5. Do: Add a Personal Touch to Your Corporate Gift
Personalization can take ordinary office supplies and turn them into conversation starters. There’s something about seeing your name or initials embossed on the front of a leather iPad cover that captures attention.
“Elevate corporate gifts to another level by adding personalization for each employee or client. It makes even the smallest gesture feel more meaningful and memorable,” emphasizes Dakota McDaniels, Chief Product Officer of Pluto, an AI stock trading platform.
For your closest team members with whom you have an established relationship, take it a step further by considering their individual preferences. Personalized gifts leave a lasting impression and keep you top-of-mind for collaboration opportunities or referrals.
6. Don’t: Overlook the Presentation of Your Gifts
Corporate gifting season isn’t the time to cut corners on wrapping paper and bows. It’s a unique opportunity to generate excitement around your gift. Placing your chosen item in a high-quality gift bag or using rich, vibrant gift wrap can build anticipation and make a more lasting impression in the recipient’s mind.
“A well-presented gift sets the tone for the recipient’s experience,” notes Colby Schmidt, Founder of Coursology. “Attention to detail shows that you’ve invested time and thoughtfulness into the gift’s presentation.”
It’s an inexpensive way to add a little something extra to your corporate gifts this year. You might even earn bonus points if the wrapping is reusable for their own gift-giving needs.
7. Do: Search for Sustainable Gift Ideas
Sustainable gifts are an ideal way to support your local economy and convey your company’s values. Not only does it show that you value their contribution to the team, but it also communicates your concern for the environment and encourages them to do the same.
“Sustainability in corporate gifting is a win-win. It benefits the environment, enhances brand reputation, and fosters a culture of responsibility,” explains Degelis Pilla, Co-Founder and CEO of TribeTokes, who offers a variety of delta 8 vape pens.
The easiest starting point is to find an item that recipients can use daily. Then, make a point to bypass big-name brands that mass-produce items and seek something locally made.
8. Don’t: Forget to Respect Cultural Differences
Gifting is a universal tradition celebrated worldwide. However, certain cultures have rules or superstitions regarding gifts that require sensitivity. What may be well-received in one culture might be considered inappropriate in another.
“In today’s globalized business landscape, understanding cultural nuances is paramount,” emphasizes Ryan Rottman.
