Sending unique corporate gifts during the holidays to clients in your Rolodex is not only a smart way to further a business relationship, but it is an effective marketing tactic based on common business sense.
Here are 8 simple tips that will boost your ROI average for the corporate holiday gift-giving season.
Tip #1: Practice the art of relationship-building.
Everyone knows that savvy marketing and salesmanship go hand-in-hand.
Once you have established a relationship with a buyer it is in your best interest to think of all the different products and services you can offer them.
Every now and then it is important to recognize your relationship and "thank" that person for their continued support.
What better time than the holidays than to show your appreciation? Go out of your way to send a personalized corporate gift.
Think utility when adding your logo to this promotional gift, but do it in a tasteful way.
A time-tested example would be a full-grain calfskin writing tablet with the recipient's logo embossed on the front leather flap.
TIP #2: Don't wait to the last minute to purchase your unique corporate gifts.
Ad specialty companies have thousands upon thousands of promotional products for you to choose from.
Wait until the last moment and all those choices can be a little daunting.
It is wise to do your research in August or September and put together an updated mailing list at the same time.
Mail your gift at the end of November or beginning of December to avoid the holiday rush.
TIP #3: Personalize your corporate gifts.
Don't just put your brand name on the gift; make sure you put their name on it too! The recipient who sees his name on an elegant pen or handsome organizer will never forget who gave them this item.
Go the extra mile by sending a personalized message with your corporate gift.
Whether it is on recyclable paper or on a custom piece of chocolate, your message should have resonance.
Executives appreciate personalized corporate gifts like a slim cowhide wallet with pockets for cash, credit cards and business cards or an elegant leather business portfoloio.
TIP #4: Don't go overboard with your corporate promotional gifts.
Use good judgment when applying your corporate logo to holiday business gifts.
Used properly, you can convey a warm sense of appreciation without shouting the fact that you are attempting to keep your brand front and center in their mind.
Done in the wrong manner, your good gesture may backfire.
A simple yet tasteful approach would be a travel pouch that holds personal items or a luggage tag for the exec on the run.
TIP #5: Stay in-tune with your client's personal interests.
Does one of your biggest and most important clients like to take ski trips in the winter? Perhaps this person is a boating enthusiast? Whatever the case may be, sending a personalized business gift with inherent value to the recipient will solidify your relationship in their mind.
Any product - large or small, expensive or not - can entertain the person's name or logo on it.
If you know which sports team they root for (or their alma mater) you can personalize a money clip, luggage tag or give them a calendar with the team's schedule on it.
TIP #6: You can't go wrong with desk accessories or gift baskets.
Put your logo on that brand name gift basket.
Place it on mouth-watering chocolates or imported cheeses.
From bottles of wine to calendars to Mont Blanc pen sets, corporate gifts that can either be consumed in the comfort of one's home or used on a daily basis in the office will not go overlooked.
TIP #7: Your unique business gift should not cause discomfort.
No one wants to open a gift during the holidays and feel rushed to return the favor.
It doesn't seem genuine and no one wants to be put in this kind of situation.
To avoid uneasiness on the recipients end, don't send a client a business-oriented holiday gift that shouts excess.
Sometimes simple gifts can go a long way - and those with a hefty price tag can have an adverse effect.
TIP #8: Send a holiday gift related to your business.
If you run a restaurant send a gift card.
If you own a pool cleaning business send a branded raft.
If you have a car wash business have custom floor mats made with the person's name etched in them.
If you run a lawn service business send your valued customers a potted orchid with a little note.
If you are a dentist send your patients a tooth brush with their name on it.
The options are endless no matter what business you engage in.
Finding, creating and purchasing branded executive holiday gifts can be a daunting task.
Use your marketing muscles and put some effort into your corporate promotional gifts.
Done in a tasteful manner, your clients and employees will always remember your generosity.
In the end, you will be remembered as well.