Make corporate gifts matter

The majority of gift recipients agree business gifts make them feel appreciated. 77% to be exact, according to a recent Business Gifting Strategy Report. Yet, fewer than half say their last gift was very memorable. 

So what’s the secret to making your gifts matter? Read on for the dos and don’ts of corporate gifting. We’ll go over tips for making your gift memorable and cherished, not trashed. 

The old saying “it’s the thought that counts” holds true when it comes to corporate gifting. The Strategy Report found the gifts that have the most positive impact are the ones individually chosen for the recipient. Conversely, when a gift seems to have been sent without much thought, it can elicit a negative response. The key is to gift for the individual, not the general. Skip the random pen and truly consider their interests and hobbies. Here are some examples from the reported top preferred gift categories: 

Wine was ranked as the top gift choice, adding a touch of delight and sophistication. Just remember to check if your recipient enjoys wine or liquor before sending it their way.

When you cater the basket based on savory or sweet preferences, you can be sure a snack & candy gift won’t go to waste. Remember to take any dietary restrictions or preferences into account.

Spa sets are the third most preferred gift, and it’s no wonder why – there’s no greater gift than relaxation.

To assure your recipient you've chosen a gift with thought and care, include a personal message. It may seem obvious, but over half of corporate gift recipients report their last gift didn’t have one. This is the most impactful – and cheapest – way to create a personal connection with your gift. Corporate Gift allows you to send a personalized gift message with any digital gift, and CG Elite members can even add a personalized video message. 

Here’s a 3-step script for what to include in a personal message: 

Dear [Recipient Name],

• Thank you for (name the project or achievement that led to you sending this gift)
• I selected this gift because (go into detail on why it made you think of them, how you can see them using it, and why you like it)
• I look forward to (point to future partnership or way you’ll continue strengthening this relationship)

[Sign off and your name]

Personalized gifts make recipients feel special and appreciated, creating a meaningful connection and lasting impression. Consider engraved accessories, monogrammed home decor, debossed leather essentials, or embroidered apparel. Personalized gifts heighten the connection between the giver and the recipient. Plus, people are more likely to hold onto and cherish items that were uniquely made for them.

A gift highlighting your company's charitable or sustainability initiatives can make a significant impact. Try choosing a gift that aligns with your company values.

There are times when branded swag is appropriate, such as onboarding or work anniversaries, but logoed gear does not make your gift more memorable. It's usually the least preferred type of gift. Branded items often hold less value to the recipient because they feel more like an advertisement than a thoughtfully chosen gift. Plus, since they're usually bought in bulk, they can come off as cheap and impersonal.

Gift cards are a common choice but can feel like a generic gesture, lacking the personal touch needed to build a strong business relationship. Recipients might like picking out a gift they want, but there's no emotion attached to receiving a gift card. If you're looking to invest in forming a meaningful connection, gift cards might not be the best move.

Take the guesswork out of gifting while still giving them a memorable experience by letting them choose their gift. Your recipient can select their gift from the curated gift collection and have it delivered to them. Never worry about addresses, sizes, or styles again. It’s the flexibility a gift card allows but with a unique experience that feels thoughtful and personalized.