ALT-1 How to Choose Gifts for Business Clients
The choice of gifts for your business clients depends upon a number of different things including the level of relationship you have developed with them. There will be some you don’t know very well and there is formality in your dealings with them while with others it is friendship around which the business revolves. With some careful planning, you can select a gift that is well received by your client and also reflects the thoughtfulness that has gone into it.
Budget: Gifts depend upon the budget of the organization and it is useful to research the options available in the budget you have. The Internet can prove to be a very valuable in this respect and spending some time can mean quality gifts can be hand delivered to the recipient. Gift certificates of gift baskets are one option available which can be tailored according to the price and the goods you want included. Gifts with the business logo on them are economical and can be personalized but should be in good taste so that they are useful without appearing too promotional.
Personal: Choosing a gift that has no bearing to the client’s tastes or preferences might be a riskier option but there are many people who give because they consider the gift to be unique, creative or denoting a cultural aspect that might be appreciated by the person receiving it. Such gifts are usually given to clients who are well travelled and aware of the value of the gift. It is representative more of the person giving it rather than the person receiving it. Similarly gifts given to overseas clients should be well researched so that there is no cultural clash and they do not offend.
Tastes: It is an advantage to know the tastes or likes and dislikes of the business client through mutual business acquaintances, friends or their personal assistants. Accordingly, gifts chosen can be of a personal nature, for their office or for their home. Many people opt for easier options like chocolates or flowers as there is less likelihood of going wrong with them and these can be simple or lavish depending on your pocket and the profile of your client.
Experience: Spending time with the client gives you the opportunity to familiarise yourself with their business and leisure activities. Based on this you can go beyond the flowers and chocolates and buy tickets to the theatre or to an event you know they will enjoy. A gift sent with a personal message giving reasons why you thought it would be useful can be particularly thoughtful.
Status: Gifts can vary according to the status of the person receiving them and depend upon how much business the client will nurture for the organization and his ongoing value to the business. This is a way of saying thank you to the client and appreciating his business. Nevertheless, whatever the financial status of the client, care should be taken in choosing a quality gift as a cheap gift or one that seems to be inappropriate can reflect negatively on the giver.
It is a matter of spending time finding out information about your client so that the gift you give to them is meaningful and thoughtful. Gift giving can be productive for a business relationship and, if it is well thought out, can leave a lasting impression in the mind of the person who is receiving it.
