Corporate Gifting Etiquette: Do's and Don'ts

Corporate giving dates back decades. Companies use it to thank clients' personnel and develop connections. Corporate giving is not easy. Etiquette must be observed to ensure the gift is tasteful and well-received. This page covers corporate giving etiquette.

Do: Keep it Professional

Keep corporate gifts professional. The present should be appropriate and not too personal. When choosing a present, consider the recipient's work and seniority. A present for a junior employee may not be suitable for a senior boss.

Don't: Give Inappropriate Gifts

Inappropriate presents may offend or be misconstrued. This includes presents that are overly personal, pricey, or bribe-like. When choosing a present, consider cultural differences..

Do: Consider the Recipient's Interests

Gifts should reflect the recipient's interests. This shows you considered the recipient and their preferences, making the present more meaningful. If the recipient likes golf, give them a set of balls or a gift card.

Don't: Give Generic Gifts

Generic presents may seem impersonal. Company-branded pens, mugs, and keychains are examples. These presents are helpful but not thoughtful.

Do: Personalize the Gift

Personalising a present makes it special. Adding the recipient's name or initials or choosing a present that matches their hobbies may achieve this. Give a personalised vinyl record to a music enthusiast.

Don't: Forget to Include a Card

A card is essential to business gifting. It lets you thank the recipient and personalise the gift. A simple thank-you statement should be handwritten in the card.

Do: Consider the Timing

Corporate giving etiquette requires timing. Give gifts for holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries. Consider the recipient's work schedule while timing. If the recipient is on vacation, wait to offer the gift until they return..

Don't: Expect a Return Gift

Corporate gifting should not be seen as an exchange of gifts. While it is common for recipients to express their gratitude, it is not necessary for them to give a return gift. Corporate gifting is about showing appreciation and strengthening relationships, and should not be viewed as a quid pro quo.

Do: Follow Company Policies

Finally, obey corporate gifting policies. Some companies have gift-giving rules. These policies must be understood and followed to maintain professionalism and avoid conflicts of interest.

In conclusion, the practise of giving gifts on behalf of a company is an essential component of proper business etiquette; yet, it must be carried out with caution and deliberation. You can guarantee that your presents are properly received and that you keep good connections with both your customers and your staff by adhering to the do's and don'ts of proper corporate giving etiquette, which are outlined in this article.