4 Client Gifts That Say “Thank You” Better Than a Fruit Basket
Holiday gifts are a way of showing people that you appreciate them, which can leave gift-givers feeling pressured to select just the right thing. Client gifts can be especially tricky because they must demonstrate your gratitude without being over the top.
A client gift should be unique and thoughtful, luxurious but not extravagant, and most importantly, a reflection of your appreciation. Spending too much could be perceived as bribery, but spending too little could be perceived as an insult.
Fortunately, with a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can find just the right gifts for your clients by considering their unique personality traits. This not only helps you select the right gift, it demonstrates that you pay attention to more than just the financial side of your relationship.
Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Shopping for client with the sophisticated palate
Skip the predictable chocolate or fruit basket and consider an edible gift that is unique and sophisticated at the same time. Shop Vom Fass, a luxury culinary retailer that specializes in importing hard-to-find flavors to the United States. Vom Fass’s exclusive cask-aged vinegars and exquisite oils, wines, spirits and liqueurs are poured directly from the cask. That means the products never come in contact with air or sunlight until the moment of tasting or bottling; reducing the amount of time that food products are exposed to the elements ensures they are truly fresh upon delivery.
From the Swiss Alps to the shores of the Mediterranean, Vom Fass sources its inventory under fair-trade practices, so your clients can embrace the spirit of discovery without an ounce of guilt. Select a sampler set featuring several variations of a single product, or consider a gift basket for more variety. Either way, your gift will be delivered to your client’s office in a beautifully wrapped package, along with a selection of recommended recipes.
Shopping for the client whose loyalty stands the test of time
Every business in the world operates under time constraints in one way or another. Therefore, everyone can appreciate a reliable clock that is as classy as it is functional. Seiko offers a pendulum wall clock with a beautiful satin-finished, silver-toned case on a black, solid wood base. With its contemporary style yet classic pendulum functionality, this clock looks much more expensive than it actually is.
Seiko is well-known for the quality of its timepieces; in fact, Seiko introduced the world’s first quartz wall clock for home use in 1968, and in 1976, the world’s first quartz alarm clock. A clock is a gift that’s always useful, even if the recipient already has one, and with its long-standing history and solid reputation for producing sturdy products, Seiko is a brand that’s sure to impress.
Shopping for the client who appreciates fine spirits
Diamonds are thought to be the ultimate symbol of grace and class, but in most cases, purchasing a rare gem for a client is not likely to go over well. The next best thing is a delicate hand cut “gem,” such as this Waterford crystal spirits decanter. Even the most discriminating eye will marvel at its brilliant sparkle and minimalist criss-cross of intricate diamond cuts. The simple, clean design of this decanter will pair nicely with a sophisticated, single malt scotch or a rich cognac. Even after all the spirits have been poured, your client will appreciate this gift well beyond the new year.
Shopping for the client who epitomizes style
The dilemma in shopping for a fashionista is that preferences are always changing. Fortunately, even the most fashion-forward client will agree that Tiffany & Co. never goes out of style.
Clients in vogue will love this ballpoint pen from the Elsa Peretti collection. “First it must feel good, then it must look good,” says Peretti of her designs for Tiffany. Tactile and minimalist, her accessories complement the body’s contours and create a sense of intimacy. This ballpoint pen is a perfect match for the client with a keen eye for design. It will be a colorful and sophisticated addition to a set of fine office tools. What’s more, your client will think of you every time he or she takes notes in a meeting, signs a contract or writes a greeting card.
You don’t have to be a mind reader to find the perfect gift for your client. Consider his or her personality and select a gift that reflects it. Even a small personal touch can go a long way in securing your client’s loyalty for years to come.