| Selecting appropriate business gifts is often more | | | | To keep things safe and professional, gift baskets |
| challenging than selecting gifts for family and friends. | | | | make a wonderful corporate gift idea. Opt for generic |
| There are more forces at work and the stakes are | | | | baskets that do not tie in with a certain theme, hobby |
| usually higher. Etiquette, corporate policies, and leaving | | | | or interest. For instance, gourmet gift baskets are a |
| a positive lasting impression are all key considerations. | | | | one-size-fits-all solution for corporate gifting. They |
| Before sending a gift to a business associate or a | | | | typically contain a selection of savory foods such as |
| client, it's important to follow all corporate guidelines and | | | | crackers, cheeses and nuts, as well as an assortment |
| to find out what the restrictions are on the recipient's | | | | of sweets and candies. Other alternatives to the |
| side. Some companies have strict policies concerning | | | | gourmet food basket are fruit baskets, cookie baskets |
| gift giving. For instance, gifts that surpass a certain | | | | and organic baskets containing dried fruits, nuts and |
| monetary value may be restricted. Companies also | | | | different types of granola mixes. |
| place restrictions on situations in which gifts can be | | | | For a unique idea, try a state inspired basket. Some |
| exchanged or accepted. Ask your clients directly or | | | | suggestions are a Blueberry Basket from Maine, a |
| contact their personnel department to find out what | | | | Northwest Gift Basket made in the State of |
| limitations and guidelines are in effect. | | | | Washington or a Wisconsin Cheese Basket. For the |
| Once the boundaries are determined, keep in mind that | | | | holidays, many Canadian nurseries will wrap up a fresh |
| corporate gifts need to be memorable in order to | | | | wreath with a basket full of goodies. Whatever type |
| generate goodwill and foster word-of-mouth referrals. | | | | of basket you decided on, don't take a do-it-yourself |
| Look for items that are unique, distinctive, and convey | | | | approach. This is not like painting the walls in your |
| a professional image. Etiquette is essential. For | | | | hallway. In the corporate world, its better to let a |
| example, it wouldn't be appropriate to give a female | | | | professional handle what they're good at - especially |
| client clothing or jewelry. This may be construed as too | | | | gift baskets! |
| intimate. On the same note, it would be disastrous to | | | | Business gift baskets are an ideal way to say "thank |
| give a business partner a vintage bottle of wine | | | | you", "your business is appreciated" or "happy holidays." |
| without realizing first that he or she is a recovering | | | | Your clients and business associates will remember |
| alcoholic. Don't send a personal gift unless you know | | | | your professionalism and generosity. And your bottom |
| the person's interests, likes and dislikes. | | | | line will appreciate it, too! |