Should My Company Give Gifts to Our Clients?
The better question is, why not? You send direct mail, you post on social media, you write blogs- what compelling reason is there to not send a little token of your appreciation? Sure, budget is a factor, but a holiday favor doesn’t have to break the bank. The important thing is to show that you are thinking about the person.
Aside from this, I believe there is a moral imperative to reach out during the holidays. Though largely associated with joy and festivities, a large number of Americans consider Christmas the saddest time of the year. During a time of such emotional turmoil, something as simple as a holiday card- even if it is from a company- could be just what someone needs to raise their spirits.
I thought that kind of thing was for friends, not for businesses?
People buy from the people they trust. Every brand should strive to nurture a legitimate, symbiotic relationship with their customers. If gift giving makes your business seem more like a friend, how could that possibly be a bad thing?
Does Corporate Gift Giving Seem Inauthentic?
Short answer, it absolutely can, but it entirely depends on your strategy. If you send something covered with company branding, chances are it’ll leave a sour taste in the recipient’s mouth. The affiliation is in the delivery, nothing more.
When sending out cards to my consulting clients, I don’t put any company branding on the front of the envelope. On the back, I seal the envelope with a company stamp with the words “happy holidays!” around the outside. Inside the card is a handwritten paragraph wishing the person a great holiday. Yes, it’s from a company. No, it’s not altruistic. To me, that doesn’t matter- it’s authentic, and I wholeheartedly believe that customers understand that.
What is an Appropriate Gift for My Clients?
That is going to differ from client to client. While a call or greeting card may suffice for some, others should be given something a bit pricier. Other clients shouldn’t be given anything, and sometimes it could even be against the law to give a client a gift. Before making a decision, give it plenty of thought.
One-time Client, Small Quantity
Nothing big, nothing expensive. A simple handwritten card will do. Even if you don’t expect them to need your services again, staying top-of-mind can help you secure more referrals and more positive reviews.
Repeat Client, Small Quantity
Let them know you appreciate the work without going overboard. A popcorn tin, pretzel set, or bag of artisan coffee will only set you back about $10-$15 and could help nurture the relationship well into the future.
Repeat Client, Large Quantity
They’ve done well by you, so you should do well by them. By no means should you break the bank, but a $25-$100 favor is peanuts for a high lifetime value client. Remember all that effort you put into networking? Get them a gift that shows you’ve been listening and you care about them as a person. A shirt/jersey of their favorite athlete or sports team, gift certificate to their favorite restaurant, or pass to their favorite hobby (skeet shooting range, golf club, etc.) are all good examples. This should be delivered in person, along with a thank you for their business and a wish for a great holiday season.
Government Client
Above all else, be careful and learn the law governing what you can and can’t do.
Other Holiday Gift Considerations
Of course! According to John Rulin, the holidays (November-January) are the worst time of year for business gift giving. Instead, he recommends, wait until a less celebrated holiday and be more creative with the gift. St. Patrick’s Day, Valentines Day, or any of the millions of less-known national holidays make a better option.
While I agree that there are other times of year with less competition, the opportunity to connect in the winter months should not be missed. If your business is on a tight budget and can’t afford to give favors multiple times per year, perhaps consider a gift during another time of the year and a simple handwritten note around the holidays. After all, is there ever a reason not to spread a bit of Christmas cheer?
About the Author
Baylen McCarthy is a marketing consultant and travel blogger based in Hampton Roads, Virginia. His work includes web design, search engine optimization, and digital advertising services, among other marketing solutions. If you’re interested in getting in touch with Baylen, shoot him an email or leave him a message.
