This is a
question that comes up a lot. The answer: "Absolutely not!" Remember,
genuine appreciation can't be forced. We've all received gifts that are disappointing or puzzling and
that is not what you want to
convey to the people most important to your success! Consider these
alternatives: 1- Don't make last minute rushed choices. Instead, send
handwritten messages of gratitude. The message can be simple: "Thanks for
making this another great year. Wishing you, Bob and your family a holiday
season filled with fun." Writing
notes does take time, but the personal attention can mean more than an
expensive, rushed choice. 2- Book a time in late January when the
dust has settled (go ahead and
mark it down right now) to revisit your employee and customer recognition.
Well-chosen gifts that reflect your culture and brand creatively and
genuinely don't need to be expensive, just well thought out in
advance! 3-Consider other months besides December when your gifts won't be
competing with other corporate gifts and are guaranteed to stand
out! January is a good month as you can use a Fresh Start theme: gift ideas can be leather accessoriesincluding journals and passport holders with
your logo embossed on the front or custom-designed calenders. Spring is
another great time for
recognizing employees' contributions or clients' value to your business: golf
balls in attractive logoed wood boxes or hikers pack are just two ideas. Fall/Thanksgiving gift ideas
include: small desk-top pumpkins with a custom hang tag wishing all a
festive season, a gift set of thank you cards or stylish tartan scarves.
As I always say, "it's not what's inside the gift box that
matters, but what it represents - your genuine appreciation." Let me know
how you recognize your employees and customers creatively
and genuinely! Janet