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