In this age of take what you can get and move on, there is a huge gap to be filled with simple etiquette that can reward you a hundred fold.
Each referal or piece of business is worth gold and a simple thank you gift will make the recipient feel like a million dollars. We all like to think that we are appreciated, and I know if I was thanked with a little gift I would continue to pass on business and think of other people to add to the chain.
For example, a simple referal program in the corner of your waiting room would attract attention while people are waiting.
' Refer a client and receive this beautiful gift basket filled with goodies !' - simple and to the point.
How about sending a small gift to a regular client next time they place an order, just to say thanks. How many people do that these days? See 'Take a break' from Corporate Gifts
Gourmet gifts make a perfect way to aid in this. They can be personalized and budgeted to suit you and your clients needs. Rather than rack your brain thinking of something suitable, everyone likes to eat, especially something they would not normally buy for themselves.
Great gift designers would go out of their way for their clients to personalize gifts along with gourmet food. Add in a little Company momento such as a logo business pen or mug. Check the local retail section for the clients pass-time or hobby to add in.
Prices may frighten people but there are ways to make it economical, for example, you know your client has a penchant for smoked salmon but surely that would be expensive? Easy, stack a gift as opposed to making a presentation in a basket or container. See the Elegant favor from Corporate Gifts
Elegant Favor
A little plumage can make your gift look twice as expensive and still do the job. The next time you have a Management meeting, why not have a little Corporate favor at the tables? Wafers stacked with a little truffles look adorable and classy, and are not that expensive. It may give your staff ideas for their clients the next time they are making routine sales calls. Or how about coffee cups for the meeting? Stacked with cookies, teas and coffees, this is a perfect and reasonable idea that would be great for secretaries or administrators of your clients. At times, these staff can be influential on business decisions and product usage, look after them well! Remember their birthdays, it's as easy as that.
Coffee Cup Favors
How about having a business card drawing next time you are at a trade show or fair. Again a gourmet gift can have your business items included to remind people of who you are are the next time they need service.
How about the timing of your gifts? Traditional gift giving is around the holidays, but think about it, how many gifts are given to clients/suppliers all at once? Rather than Christmas for an annual thank you, why not make your gift stand out by giving it at Thanksgiving or for New years? Or any other special time of the year?
Simple ideas that work, for more ideas and your unique Corporate gift giving, contact Corporate Gifts
When one thinks of the
The
Although these diverse and multi cultural countries are more and more open to the ways of the West, there are still boundaries that should not be crossed when giving gifts, to avoid offense or insult. The Arabs as a race are very proud and generous people, and are traditionally hospitable. There is still the way of the Bedouin, who would give his last piece of bread to a stranger who visited his campfire, even if it meant his family would go without. In turn we should acknowledge this and be aware of their customs, religious restrictions and family honor. But also note that giving gifts is a way of building relationships and doing business in the
Islam is the predominate religion in the
Another item to watch is leather goods. Be careful with the type of skin. Pigskin or ostrich although lovely would not be appropriate. Knives are not considered polite as they have a sharp edge, which could be interpreted as a severing of a relationship. Artwork could be difficult if they were sculptures, drawings or paintings of the human body and particularly women. Dogs are considered unclean so no doggy pictures either.
A compass would be perfect for the travelers of the desert lands. Used for checking the direction of
A Platter of dates, rosewater, nuts, and dried fruit would make wonderful gifts around the time of Ramadan or Eide one of the celebration after the fasting month. Once the Iftar canon is fired at sunset, all Muslims can break their fast and eat. ( See Arabian Delights from Corporate Gifts
Once you have made your perfect choice, remember; never give your gift with the left hand. The left hand is used for personal hygiene and would certainly be an insult. If it is a first business meeting, don’t make the gift too lavish, it could be considered a bribe.
And most definitely do not provide a gift for an Arab’s wife if a first meeting! This would be a breach of honor.
The Arab people can make wonderful and lifelong business partners and friends. Taking the time to learn their ways and beliefs will aid you in this journey. In’shallah ! ( God willing)
Simple pleasures from
