Choosing a gift for someone in business can be challenging to say the least. You may not know the person very well and have little idea about their interests and tastes and of course, you probably are trying to avoid giving a ‘traditional’ gift, such as a pen or pewter tankard. Corporate gifts can now be far more interesting and dynamic and there is quite a range of products out there that make an effective acknowledgement of an achievement or occasion.

Thankfully, there are six suggested steps for selecting a great gift:

1. The world of contemporary business is far more stylish and sleek than it once was. Many companies have designer office interiors, significantly invest in their people and promote a sophisticated and forward thinking culture. In light of this, gifts that are chosen and awarded to staff, clients and partners need to be equally as cutting edge and matched to the company’s image and ethos. It looks all wrong and sends a confused message if the company exudes a modern, innovative approach yet gives boring and tired presents.
2. Worse still is the company that only gives items branded with the company logo and name. Such a gift will rarely be seen as generous and to be treasured. By all means give such an item in addition to a more personal and desirable corporate gift, but avoid making it the main present.
3. With so much awareness of the environment and the need to protect and nurture the planet, forward thinking companies recognise the importance of a gift that is environmentally friendly and perhaps even made of sustainable products. It is wise to avoid plastics and other items that cannot be recycled.
4. Think locally whenever possible. Try to give gifts that are sourced and produced locally and perhaps even characterise the region or locality. For example, a quality gift basket could include local wine and confectionery, or perhaps olives and particular oils are well known in the region…if so, have them included in the gift basket!
5. If you will be giving a number of the same product as corporate gifts (or even giving the gift on an on-going basis. , you could investigate the possibility and cost of having your company’s brand marked on the product. This will not only remind the gift recipient of the company but allow a relationship to be forged between your business and the business creating the product.
6. As appropriate, target corporate gifts for men and women. Women’s desires and preferences are often different to men’s and by defining and tailoring your gifts for each gender, your company will be showing that they have thought about the person and the sort of gift that will be most exciting and pleasing to them. For example (and without wanting to stereotype. , a woman may enjoy a gift basket with champagne, chocolate truffles and vouchers for a massage whereas a man may prefer a gift basket containing an assortment of beer, gourmet nuts and a voucher for a music or technology store.

It is rarely easy or simple to choose an original and dynamic corporate gift, but these six suggestions will certainly assist you to make such a selection. Corporate gifts offer a great way to reward and acknowledge employees and clients and certainly help to build the culture, values and morale of the business. What is most important is that the gifts chosen do not convey apathy or disinterest on the part of the business. Instead, they should communicate gratitude and thoughtfulness so that the person realises just how much their contribution is valued.