Corporate Gift Etiquette: Company Do’s and Don’ts

Gestures are powerful, especially in the business world. But none is as misunderstood as the corporate gift. When corporate giving is done right, well-timed gifts can celebrate accomplishments, strengthen relationships, and elevate your brand. However, if they are misused or mishandled in any way, they can come off as inappropriate, thoughtless, or possibly offensive.

Let’s take a look at some corporate gift do’s and don’ts. How can your company stay professional and strategic in ways that ensure your corporate gifts are always appreciated?

What is a Corporate Gift?

A corporate gift is a branded, custom item that a company presents to employees, clients, vendors, or partners. They are given to recognize a relationship, express appreciation, or celebrate a milestone. Gifts are given at various times of the year and for specific reasons, such as:

• Holidays
• When a deal or contract closes
• As thank-you tokens
• As part of an onboarding kit
• Employee milestones like work anniversaries or promotions

The goal is to build goodwill and develop a strong company culture. Whether it’s a sleek engraved award or a branded tech gadget, a corporate gift can ensure your brand stays on people’s minds.

Do’s and Don’ts: Corporate gift Etiquette?

Presenting a corporate gift is a lot more than just keeping up traditions. In fact, gifts help build stronger relationships with a company. They can help employees feel more valued. Vendor or client recipients are more likely to return to the business or refer others to it. In a time when digital communication dominates our culture, a tangible gift helps bring back some important things like connection, effort, and intention.

Do’s of the Corporate Gift

• Do personalize when possible. If it’s possible, include the recipient’s name and role on the gift or award. Consider adding a thoughtful note as well. Personalization makes an award feel more meaningful and less generic.
• Do consider cultural norms. Different cultures may interpret gifts differently. For example, in Europe, expensive gifts may be considered inappropriate, and in Japan, fancy wrapping is part of the gift’s value. In the US, gifts are often modest but branded.
• Do determine a budget. Corporate setting vary, but a good example would be $75-$200+ for clients and VIPs. Employee gifts typically range from $25 to $100. And gifts for vendors and partners should be between $25 and $75.
• Do match the gift to the occasion. Select a corporate gift that suits the setting, moment, and occasion. You may want to use a luxurious crystal award to celebrate a milestone anniversary, but branded swag for onboarding.
• Do include a handwritten note. Don’t underestimate the power of a personal message. It can literally turn a transaction into a relationship.

Don’ts of the Corporate Gift

• Don’t give items that are too personal. Avoid giving gifts that could be seen as inappropriate or intimate.
• Don’t use a corporate gift as a bribe. A gift should never be perceived as an attempt to sway someone’s decision. Make sure to follow your company’s compliance rules, especially with governmental clients or regulated industries.
• Don’t wait until the last minute. Good gift-giving will take time. Plan well and plan early, especially for conferences or holidays.
• Don’t go overboard with branding. Subtle branding is classy. Overly promotional items with overwhelming logos or slogans may reduce the perceived value of the gift.
• Don’t ignore religious or dietary considerations. If you choose to send food or beverages as a corporate gift, check for dietary restrictions and allergens. Also, consider any religious preferences and considerations, such as kosher, vegan, or halal.

Suburban Custom Awards: Your Corporate Gift Source!

No matter what type of corporate gift you are looking for, Suburban Custom Awards has you covered. We have a wide variety of options from crystal awards to perpetual plaques, certificates to branded items. No matter what you need to express your appreciation to an employee, vendor, client, or new team member, you’ll find it right here at Suburban!