Dos and Don'ts of Corporate Gift Giving

Gift Giving in a business environment isn't quite the same as giving a gift to your best friend. Special considerations need to be made when selecting the appropriate gift for an employee or client.

This is a list of some of the dos and don'ts of corporate gift giving.

• DO give gifts of high quality.
• DON'T give gifts that appear cheap of that are in poor taste.
• DO give gifts that are stylish, yet classic and relevant.
• DON'T wait until the last minute and make a "desperate" purchase.
• DO make sure your gift is elegantly packaged.
• DO add a personal touch, such as a hand written note, to show some thought was put into the gift.
• DON'T buy something you would like, focus on what they would like.
• DO try to be culturally sensitive.
• DON'T give gifts that imply self-improvement in needed.
  
• DO give a different gift each year.
• DO consult with a colleague or friend when you're not sure what would be appropriate for the individual.
  

To logo or not to logo? That is the question. It really depends on the gift and the reason for giving it. If you are giving a gift to thank someone for a referral or their time, then most often the answer is yes. You want them to remember you and your service. However, if you are giving an upscale gift for a special event or the holidays, then maybe not. I think the impact of Mont Blanc pen, Coach bag or Bulova watch will be a lasting memory in the mind of the recipient.

The Kaeser & Blair Corporate Gift site has gifts that are appropriate for just about every business gift giving occasion.