It may be the dog days of summer, but now is the time to start thinking about the winter holidays. The joy of giving is a wonderful feeling, and if you start planning now, you'll have your pick of inventory. There are a ton of great gift ideas to choose from for both clients and employees, each one a potential source of holiday joy and warmth.
Yet the end of the year isn’t the only time you should consider gifting. Corporate gifting can strengthen business relationships and make a memorable impact all year round. A recent Forbes article by a thought leader on highly collaborative relationships outlined five reasons business leaders should prioritize thoughtful gift-giving. The reasons include:
- Enhancing your reputation.
- Bridging long distances when meeting in person is impossible.
- Standing out in a competitive market.
- Focusing on the positive when times are tough
- Expressing appreciation in a meaningful way.
All five reasons lead to one clear conclusion.
You can gift your way to stronger (and more profitable) business relationships.
As you plan for the 2024 holiday season, consider how to best engage employees, clients, and potential partners with thoughtful and memorable gifts. This article will help you elevate your corporate gifting strategy. We'll cover everything from innovative corporate gift ideas to thank and appreciate your clients and employees every day to understanding the latest trends in this year’s corporate gifts. You'll discover how to make informed gifting decisions that align with your business objectives, ensuring your gifts have a positive impact. First, let’s review the current trends in corporate gifting.
2024 Trends in Corporate Gifting
We recently wrote about the 2024 trends in corporate gifting gathered from the ASI Show® in Fort Worth. These trends will definitely drive holiday and appreciation gifting this year for both clients and employees.
- Quality Over Quantity: Clients are leaning towards high-quality apparel and gifts rather than a large quantity of less impressive items.
- Sustainability Matters: Eco-friendly options are increasingly popular, reflecting a growing commitment to environmental responsibility.
- On-Demand and Small-Batch Orders: Fast turnaround times and the ability to order in small batches are becoming essential.
- Popular Brands: Clients are interested in popular retail brands that don’t typically offer customization.
- 90’s Retro and Streetwear: Nostalgic and trendy styles are making a comeback.
Click on the link above to learn more and review examples of each trend. Any one of these trendy examples would be a great choice for a client or employee gift. Let’s next focus on employee corporate gifting.
Here's Why Employee Gifts Matter
Any time is the perfect time to express appreciation to your employees. The significance of meaningful gifts for employees extends far beyond the actual item you’ve gifted.
Reinforces Company Culture
Employee gifts are a tangible expression of gratitude for the hard work and dedication shown throughout the year. A well-chosen annual appreciation gift can lift spirits, especially during busy seasons or when times are tough. It serves as a reminder that their efforts are valued and recognized. When employees feel appreciated, they are more motivated and engaged.
Reinforces Gifts Strengthen Company Culture and Loyalty
Employee gifts reinforce a positive and strong company culture and build loyalty. Investing in thoughtful gifts demonstrates your commitment to a supportive and rewarding work environment. This gesture helps create a sense of belonging and strengthens the camaraderie within the team.
Gifts Contribute to Employee Retention
Meaningful gifts strengthen the bond between employees and your company, enhancing overall job satisfaction and reducing turnover. A recent study on employee gift-giving found that 78% of employees said their job satisfaction increased after receiving a meaningful gift from their employer. 35% said that their increased job satisfaction after receiving a meaningful gift lasted 3 to 6 months.
In essence, employee gifts are more than just tokens of appreciation; they are a strategic investment in your team’s well-being and the long-term success of your organization. That same study reported that nearly a third (31%) of the employees surveyed said that not receiving a holiday gift would nudge them toward exploring new job opportunities. The 2024 holiday gift season is the perfect time to give your employees gifts that can contribute to a more motivated and loyal workforce.
Holiday Gift Ideas for Employees
Choosing the perfect end of the year gift for your employees can be both exciting and challenging. The goal is to find something that resonates with their interests and needs while reflecting your company’s appreciation and values. Here are some thoughtful and unique corporate gift ideas that’ll delight your staff.
Seasonal Gifts
Seasonal gifts are a wonderful way to infuse the holiday spirit into your workplace and show appreciation for your employees. These gifts, whether cozy winter essentials like scarves and gloves, festive food and beverage treats, or holiday-themed décor, bring joy and warmth.To be inclusive, remember to recognize all the holidays celebrated during the winter months when choosing seasonal gifts.
Here’s a cost-effective seasonal gift example: 3-pack Holiday Hangers
Personalized Gifts
Personalized gifts show you've put thought into what each employee likes and value their individuality. Consider custom nameplates, monogrammed office accessories, or personalized leather notebooks. These gifts serve a practical purpose and also foster a personal connection.
Here's an excellent example of a personalized gift from our Made in the USA leather collection: Travel Zip Pouch
Wellness and Self-Care Products
Supporting your employees’ well-being is always appreciated. Wellness gifts, such as high-quality water bottles, cozy blankets like the Mink Ever Soft Throw Blanket, or relaxation kits with aromatherapy candles and bath salts, can encourage employees to take time for themselves.
Mink Ever Soft Throw Blanket.
Tech Gadgets
Tech gadgets can be both practical and fun. Consider gifts like portable chargers, wireless earbuds, speakers, or smart home devices. These items not only enhance convenience but also show that you’re tuned into the latest trends and technology, which can be especially appealing to tech-savvy employees.
Here’s a great tech gadget gift: Anker SoundCore Mini 3 Speaker
Themed Gift Packages or Kits
Curated gift packages can be a great way to offer a variety of treats and goodies. The sky’s the limit when it comes to creating the perfect package. You can choose a package tailored to specific interests, such as gourmet food items, artisanal jewelry, or pet items. For example, the Out to Lunch gift below includes a practical lunch-size cooler with a delightful assortment of treats inside. Or you can design a package full of swag branded with your company logo.
Out To Lunch Gourmet Treats and Cooler
Eco-Friendly Gifts
If your company is committed to sustainability, consider gifts like reusable shopping bags, bamboo office supplies, or sustainable water bottles. You can also choose items manufactured using recycled materials, like this Samsonite® Virtuosa Backpack.
Choose your Gift Programs
Allowing employees to pick their gifts can be a game-changer. Norfolk Southern used this approach, letting employees choose from various options based on attendance. This personal touch made the gifting experience more meaningful and efficient.
When selecting holiday or annual appreciation gifts for your employees, consider their individual preferences and your company culture. Your thoughtfulness in choosing the right gift will show your appreciation and go a really long way to a positive and engaged workplace.
Now let’s turn our attention to corporate gifts for clients.
Here's Why Client Gifts Matter
Just as thoughtful gifts for employees can strengthen workplace morale and loyalty, applying the same approach to client gifting can significantly benefit your business.
Gifts Build and Maintain Strong Client Relationships
Client gifts show gratitude and keep the relationship positive and engaged. A well-timed gift demonstrates that you value the client’s business and are committed to nurturing a long-term partnership. This simple act of appreciation can strengthen the bond and encourage continued collaboration.
Gifts Reflect your Brand's Value
When gifts reflect your company's brand values, they resonate more deeply with clients and reinforce the connection between your business and its core principles. Personalized gifts that align with your brand's mission enhance the client's perception of your brand.
Gifts Elevate Your Brand Recognition and Loyalty
Gifts branded or personalized with your company's logo can reinforce brand recognition. Providing clients with high-quality, memorable items that feature your brand keeps your company top-of-mind. This increases brand visibility and builds client loyalty as they associate your thoughtful gesture with your business.
Holiday and New Year's Gift Ideas for Clients
Client gifting has become somewhat of a competitive sport. Standing out from the crowd is key to making a memorable impression. This section will explore innovative and distinctive corporate gift ideas beyond the traditional options for clients.
High-End, Luxury Gifts
Investing in high-end gifts can leave a significant impact on clients. Premium items like elegant watches, fine wine, or designer accessories convey a sense of exclusivity and appreciation. These gifts not only impress but also underscore the importance of the client relationship and your commitment to maintaining high standards. Our clients often choose customizable gifts from top brands such as Tumi, Samsonite, Shinola, and Cuisinart.
Here’s just one item that’s sure to be hot this season: Cuisinart 8-Bottle Wine Cellar.
Practical Gifts
Practical gifts that clients can use regularly ensure that your gesture remains useful and appreciated. Items such as high-quality notebooks, stylish pens, or premium coffee mugs offer daily utility and keep your brand visible in everyday settings. Practical gifts are a great way to combine thoughtfulness with functionality.
Here’s a practical client gift that’s sure to please: Moleskine® GO Pen.
Gifts for Entertaining
Items used for entertaining make fantastic New Year’s gifts, blending functionality with flair to enhance any gathering. Consider stylish and practical items like elegant cheese boards with serving tools, sophisticated cocktail shakers, or high-quality wine openers that add a touch of luxury to any event. Personalized options, such as engraved wine glasses or custom serving trays, offer a unique and memorable touch that reflects your brand's attention to detail.
Here's an excellent example of a gift for entertaining: La Cuisine Wood Nesting Snack Bowl Set.
Gifts for Foodies
Items for use in the kitchen or tasty treats make for excellent gifts, combining practicality with style to cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. Cookware sets, artisanal cutting boards, or premium coffee makers offer both functionality and aesthetic appeal. For a more luxurious touch, you might opt for gourmet gift baskets featuring artisanal cheeses, exotic spices, or fine wines.
Here’s a fun foodie set: Cuisinart Outdoors® 3 Piece Pizza Grill Set
By thoughtfully selecting personalized, practical, or luxurious client gifts, you can enhance your business relationships, reinforce your brand, and make a meaningful impact that extends beyond the holiday season.
The Importance of Gifting Year-Around: Beyond the Holiday Season
While holiday gifts offer a perfect opportunity to show appreciation, the significance of gifting extends well beyond the festive season. Implementing a year-round gifting strategy ensures that your gesture of goodwill and recognition remains fresh and impactful. Regularly acknowledging your clients, employees, and partners through thoughtful gifts can strengthen relationships, foster loyalty, and reinforce your brand’s commitment to those who contribute to your success.
Employee Gifts for Every Occasion
As discussed, incorporating a year-round gift strategy for employees can significantly elevate morale, loyalty, and engagement. Here's how you can leverage various types of gifts throughout the year,
Annual Appreciation Kits
Annual appreciation kits can keep employee morale high and reinforce a culture of recognition. These kits can include a mix of personal and professional items, such as high-quality stationery, branded swag, wellness products, or gourmet treats tailored to celebrate individual achievements or team milestones. We recently posted a blog about creative ideas to celebrate employees with branded gifts.
Welcome Kits for New Employees
Make a great first impression with new hires by providing them with a thoughtfully curated welcome kit. This can include branded company swag, essential office supplies, and a personal note from leadership. A well-designed welcome kit helps new employees feel valued from day one and sets a positive tone for their journey with your company. Here's an example of an employee welcome kit. It includes a sticky note holder, Bluetooth speaker, and phone charger.
Employee Loyalty Programs
Show long-term employees that their dedication is appreciated through a structured loyalty program. Gifts can range from personalized items to luxury experiences based on years of service or specific milestones. These rewards can motivate employees and reinforce their commitment to your company. Below are examples of loyalty program gifts.
Branded Swag
Branded swag isn’t just for new hires or special events. Offering practical and stylish branded items, such as insulated water bottles, quality tote bags, or tech gadgets, ensures employees feel connected to the brand every day. These items also serve as a constant reminder of your appreciation.
Supreme Lending partnered with Phase 3 to provide fresh ideas for their internal branded merchandise and employee store needs. Using their updated branding, Phase 3 created an online “supreme swag store” for their employees with 200 branded products to choose from.
Conference/Event Gifts
A special event calls for unique gifts. For employees attending conferences or company events, thoughtful gifts can enhance their experience and foster a sense of pride. For an annual event, gifts are a thoughtful way to celebrate a successful year. Consider practical items like portable chargers, stylish notebooks, or custom apparel. Or go high-end with name-brand luxury items like watches, leather bags, briefcases, or branded outerwear.
For example, a client offered these gifts to executives who attended a yearly event.
Barbour Classic Ladies Beadnell® Wax Jacket
Apple Watch Series 7
There are plenty of occasions during the year to maintain a year-round gifting strategy for employees. From new hires to milestones to events, use these occasions to show your appreciation for your employees. Gifts are the perfect way to say, “You matter.”
Now that we've explored how year-round gifts can enhance employee engagement and loyalty let's turn our attention to the importance of extending your gifting strategy to clients throughout the year.
Client Gifts for Every Occasion
Consistent and thoughtful client gifting not only strengthens relationships but also keeps your brand top of mind. Here's how you can implement a year-round gifting approach for clients and prospects.
Customer Appreciation
Regularly sending appreciation gifts can demonstrate your gratitude for a client’s continued partnership. These gifts don’t need to be extravagant but should be meaningful and relevant to the recipient. Whether it’s a high-quality notebook, a gourmet gift basket, or a personalized keepsake, the goal is to acknowledge your clients' value and keep your business at the forefront of their minds.
For example, a client recently sent this customized appreciation kit to 100 customers just to say thanks. The kit contained a branded tracking device/keychain, pen, tumbler, and a message of appreciation.
Influencer Swag
Sending branded swag to influencers or media partners can enhance their perception of your company and, in turn, they'll extend your reach to potential customers. Creative and well-crafted swag items like custom tech gadgets, stylish apparel, or exclusive access to new products can significantly impact your brand's visibility and foster positive association.
For example, OLDKNOW BevCo hired Phase 3 to help generate awareness around their new line of spirited seltzers. Phase 3 developed coordinated product and branded swag drops with local media and influencers. The swag included branded apparel and temporary tattoos.
Special Events
Marking significant milestones or celebrating special events with your clients through gifting can create memorable experiences and strengthen your relationship. Think of these items as souvenirs or keepsakes. For example, offering a thoughtful gift to commemorate a grand opening or a product launch shows that you understand how important your customers are to the success of your business.
When the Embers Hotel hosted their grand opening, they gifted attendees several branded items including matches, playing cards, mugs, and coasters.
Effective client gifting is more than just a gesture—it's a strategic tool for developing strong business relationships and enhancing your brand's reputation. As you plan your gifting strategy, remember that consistency and creativity are key to turning these gestures into crucial elements of client loyalty and satisfaction.
Start Your Q4 Gift Shopping Today
From seasonal gifts that bring warmth and joy to personalized items that reflect appreciation and value, every gift plays a significant role in reinforcing connections and enhancing brand loyalty. This season, choose high-end luxury gifts, practical daily items, or creative keepsakes for a memorable gifting experience that strengthens your commitment to those who support your business.
A year-round approach to gifting is a powerful engagement strategy for both clients and employees. Celebrate every special occasion and those everyday moments of appreciation to build goodwill throughout the year. Whether you're celebrating employee milestones or important client events, every gift is a way to show your appreciation and strengthen your partnerships.
Ready to explore the perfect gifts for your team and clients? With a diverse selection tailored to every need, Phase 3 offers ideal gifts that’ll set you apart from the crowd and create a lasting impact. Contact us today for more information.