Last Minute Tips for Client Gifts
If you’re frustrated trying to find a single gift to suit your hundreds of clients, prospects and business associates, stop trying. You don’t give your spouse and your mechanic the same gift -- why should one-size-fits-all work for your clients?
To simplify holiday gift-giving decisions, group clients by their interests or importance to your practice. Here are some tips to help with your holiday shopping. -- Chris Kirby
<b>Prepare the List: Group Your Clients</b>
<b>Set Your Budget</b>
<b>Shop Smart</b>
Food baskets have become a popular option and probably work best with existing clients who will recognize your name on the card and remember the gift among others they are receiving from professionals this time of year. On the other hand, prospect gifts should probably bear your name or company logo, and be something recipients will keep in plain sight.
Consider what your competition might be sending -- does Joe Advisor down the street send a calendar every year to the other Rotary members? Then dont compete with another calendar.
While clients may appreciate more personal gifts, keep gifts for business associates professional. Dont forget that the secretary in the attorneys office could be as valuable a referral source as the attorney herself -- so consider a gift the office can share, like baked goods.
Assumptions can be dangerous when spouses are involved. If a couple has joint accounts with you, make sure a joint gift is appropriate for both spouses, or select a different gift for each spouse. A little extra research can avoid a major faux pas -- like sending cigars to a client whose wife would like to send the stogies packing.
<b>Presentation Matters</b>
Baskets provide a great way to round up multiple small, related items into a single gift. Best of all, they can be tailored to almost any interest or hobby, general or specific. For example, a sports basket could focus on a particular sport, a particular team or sports in general. A basket is also a great way to mix items for a couple -- for example, travel mugs with an assortment of teas and coffees.
Top off your presentation with an enclosure card or a greeting card not a business card. It doesnt have to be fancy, but make sure your signature is clear so you get the full benefit of sending it.
<b>More Gift Ideas</b>
And steer clear of giving your employees the same gift you gave clients. The holidays involve enough leftovers.
Read more:
6 Best Christmas Gifts Advisors Gave to Clients.
13 Gifts That Could Get You In Big Trouble With FINRA.