Guide to Corporate Gifting

If you’re new to corporate gifting, some basic guidelines can help you navigate the process. Much of the etiquette related to corporate gifts are standard regardless of industry, so it doesn’t matter if you’re in marketing or medicine. Read on to learn how to impress co-workers, clients, and other corporate VIPs this holiday season.

Know Your Company’s Rules

The first thing you’ll want to do is review your company’s policies regarding corporate gifting. Some companies have spending limits, while others may impose limitations on what kinds of gifts are allowed; for example, a company may have a policy against edible gifts. Before settling on a gift, consult with your company’s HR department to ensure you’re clear on all rules and regulations. Your workplace manual should contain gifting guidelines for holidays and other events.

In almost every case, there are some universal things to steer clear of when buying corporate gifts. You don’t want to choose gifts that are too extravagant or expensive; you also want to avoid any type of gift that shows favoritism. Establish a monetary limit for company gifts to prevent overspending.

Keep it Simple

When buying gifts for clients, vendors, and other individuals outside of your workplace, it’s best to keep things simple. A branded gift—like a custom work tote, for example—is a great way to express gratitude to the recipient while reminding them of your company. A set of pens emblazoned with your company name is another corporate gift idea that’s appropriate for just about any occasion.

Don’t forget to include a card with your gift. Simply write a short sentiment, such as “Happy Holidays” or “Season’s Greetings,” followed by your company name. When you are offering a gift to express appreciation, a brief message of gratitude is all you need to make an impact.

Buying Gifts for Colleagues

Buying for co-workers is a bit different. You can usually get away with choosing gifts that are a bit more creative, especially if you know some of your co-worker’s likes and dislikes. For example, if you’re buying for a colleague who loves their daily cup of coffee, a custom company mug would fit the bill. Got an avid golfer on your list? A golf towel or set of golf balls is sure to please.

As with buying gifts for clients and others outside the company, include a card when giving a gift to a co-worker. A short sentence that tells them how much you enjoy working with them followed by your signature is a thoughtful message that works for most gifting situations.

Buying Gifts for Employees

If you supervise a team of employees, consider giving them the same item. That way, no one feels like their co-workers received a better or more expensive gift than they did. For example, you could gift your crew with sturdy stainless-steel tumblers branded with your company’s name. Or, you could opt for personalized padfolios or custom company notebooks. Mousepads are another gift idea that can work well for employees who work at a computer.

There is an exception to identical gift guidelines: If your team is only comprised of two or three workers, you can go for individualized gifts—just keep them in the same price range. It’s much easier to buy personalized gifts for a small group than it is a large one.

Consider a Secret Santa Exchange

Your company may want to consider hosting a Secret Santa gift exchange in order to make gifting fun, fair, and efficient. Employees can choose a name at random, which is kept secret until gifts are exchanged. A holiday party for the company is a great time for co-workers to exchange gifts; you could also encourage everyone to bring a food item or dessert and have a potluck. Holiday events are a great way to say thanks to employees for their service, encourage camaraderie among co-workers, and boost overall morale.

Keep Track of Gifting

It’s important to keep records when giving corporate gifts. That way, when next year’s holiday season rolls around, you can consult your notes to remember what you gave to whom. This helps you prevent giving duplicate gifts the following year. Holiday gift-giving records don’t have to be complicated; a simple spreadsheet with each person’s name and what they were gifted works fine. You could even write the information down in a notebook if you prefer a low-tech approach.

It’s the Thought That Counts

Remember, it’s the thought that counts when giving gifts—even in the corporate realm. Whether you’re buying for a work associate, a client, or a service provider, they’re sure to appreciate the effort. It doesn’t matter if you choose a small, inexpensive gift. What matters is that you took the time to recognize the people who matter to your company. Doing so helps spread holiday cheer and build corporate relationships that can last for years to come.