Ah, the holiday season—when we trade hot coffee for hot cocoa and spreadsheets for shopping lists. But before you grab another boring ceramic mug or Santa socks to thank your top clients for their business… please don’t. The corporate gifting experts at Bundled are here to talk about the dos and don’ts of corporate holiday gifting. You want to stand out, but for all the right reasons.
DO: Make it Personal (But Not Too Personal)
Clients love feeling valued, and there’s no better way to say “I appreciate you” than with a thoughtful, customized gift. Adding a little flair like their name or company logo on a product can show that you went the extra mile. But beware of gifts that are too personal. Stay away from incorporating sensitive information in their gifts, such as home addresses, phone numbers, children’s names, etc.
DON’T: Go Overboard
Sure, you want to impress, but giving your client a $1,000 gift might send the wrong message (and could be awkward for accounting). Remember, it’s about showing appreciation, not flexing your budget. A beautifully curated gift bundle featuring local or artisanal products says, “I care about you and also support small businesses.” Plus, it’s less likely to cause any raised eyebrows over lunch meetings next quarter.
DO: Be Culturally Aware
We know, the holidays are all about joy, but not everyone celebrates the same way. Be mindful of your client’s beliefs and traditions. Instead of sticking to a holiday-specific gift, consider seasonal items that aren’t tied to a particular festivity. A winter-themed gift box full of gourmet treats or cozy accessories is universally loved and avoids any faux pas.
DON’T: Put Your Logo Just Anywhere, Be Mindful!
This might sound harsh, but your client might only welcome certain items into their homes or offices with your company logo on it. Branded gifts are great for team members or events, but for client gifts, stick to high-quality items that stand alone. Think artisanal food, premium tech gadgets, or beautifully crafted desk accessories. Subtle, useful, and no shameless advertising.
DO: Time it Right
A gift arriving too early says, “I’m already done with this year,” and one that arrives after New Year’s says, “Oops, you were an afterthought.” The sweet spot? A week or two before the holidays kick into high gear. It gives clients a festive surprise without adding to the chaos of the season. And don’t forget about delivery times—plan ahead to ensure it arrives on time.
DON’T: Forget a Handwritten Note
It’s tempting to rely on the “best wishes” message pre-printed on the card, but resist! A handwritten note is the cherry on top of any corporate gift. Did you know that custom designed and printed card is included with every corporate gift order with Bundled? A few thoughtful words of appreciation will be remembered long after the holiday season has passed. Trust us, it’s the difference between “Oh, another gift” and “Wow, they really thought of me.”
Holiday Gifting Done Right
Holiday gifting etiquette doesn’t have to be stressful. Just remember to keep it thoughtful, be mindful of your choices, and most importantly, avoid gifting those Santa socks. If you still have questions, feel free to book a FREE, no-obligation brainstorming session with a Gifting Pro at Bundled to discuss your next gifting project.
