Prioritize your gift giving
|
Put the greatest amount of effort into those clients and partners who have helped your business the most. That doesn’t mean ignoring those previously profitable customers who didn’t work with you this past year. Instead, consider other ways to stay in touch with them such as personalized holiday cards, calendars, or other small seasonal “tokens.”
|
|
Make gifts more personal
|
A gift that reflects your understanding of the recipient's personal tastes and hobbies is the most meaningful. Gifts of this kind send the message that you pay attention to and care about your business contacts' interests. For example, if you know that a client is a big golf fan, book him or her tee time. If another customer loves gardening, put together a seed and gardening tool kit.
|
|
|
Consider charitable contributions
|
Making donations on behalf of the people on your list can be a meaningful way to say thanks. When giving to charity, be sure to observe some basic etiquette guidelines. Avoid political or religious themes and stick with organizations that do not openly affiliate themselves with a specific point of view. If you know the causes or groups that your business contacts support, give to these organizations on their behalf.
|
|
|
Promote products from other small businesses
|
Support the small business community by purchasing gifts from new and emerging companies. Many small business support groups create virtual "malls" or catalogs where members can display and sell their merchandise. Many of these products are unique and buying from them demonstrates your commitment to helping other small business owners.
|
|
|
Give the gift of time
|
You can give the gift of time to business contacts by choosing something that will reduce the time it takes them to handle a common task. For example, you might give complete sets of gift-wrapping supplies, including paper, ribbons, tape, tags, and scissors, so recipients don't have to go to the store or hunt through their homes for these items. Or you might provide them with a 2004 calendar and record important dates and events in each month before you give it to them.
|
|
|
Use your creativity
|
You can also make a high-impact gift by investing your own time. Traditional gestures such as baking or preparing gourmet items for which you have a knack are always appreciated. You can also go a step further by putting together a book of your favorite holiday recipes or mixing and burning a CD of holiday music. The key is to focus on something that you share with your customers and partners. You may find that this annual holiday treat becomes a client collectible with a true lasting impact.
|
