AllOut Holiday Gift-Giving 101
Don't make a gift-giving gaffe this holiday season! Giving gifts during the holidays is a great way to market your company to current customers. But buying presents without appropriate planning can backfire. Follow these tips to ensure your holiday cheer is received in the spirit in which it was intended.
- Know the rules – When buying for international clients, learn the customs of their countries. Different presents have different cultural significance. Giving a bottle of wine or a floral arrangement may always seem appropriate in the United States, but some cultures have religious restrictions regarding alcohol while others deem certain flowers funereal. Cultural research will ensure your gift will be as well received internationally as it would be at home.
- Don't over spend – Spending too lavishly is not only foolish, but can be insulting. In some countries, extravagance can be mistaken for a bribe. Moreover, in the United States over-spending may be interpreted as poor business sense.
- Don't under spend – If your budget is tight this year, be creative - not cheap. A great alternative to expensive giving is making your own gift basket - buy a handful of items unique to your area and have them arranged attractively in a basket for an affordable gift that won't look a dime a dozen. Many gourmet food and gift stores provide this service.
- Give consistently – Don't overlook anyone when gift-giving to your customers. If you work with a team of employees at a company, address the gift to everyone as a token of your appreciation for their teamwork throughout the year. Excluding anyone creates lasting negative memories.
- Give creatively – Infuse the season with your own unique flair. An added bonus to holiday giving is the positive association connected with your company. Holiday cheer needs your company's own spin on it - maximize this opportunity to distinctively market your company.
Use these tips to ensure your holidays are bah-humbug free! For more innovative ideas on marketing your company, contact us.
— Posted 08/29/2002