Corporate gifting is one way to express gratitude and appreciation to your clients in a sincere and thoughtful manner. It is a reflection of your company and business image. When done properly, it can help to build strong client relationships that lead to sustained business opportunities and an excellent return on investment in the long run. 

Importance of Corporate Gifting

Giving gifts to your clients will make them feel that you care for them and value the relationship you have together, and intend to keep it that way. When you choose your gifts, remember to put a bit more effort into the items that you choose for them. This means that you will have to go way beyond the traditional gifts of branded pens and notepads. However, there is no need to break the bank just to show appreciation to them.

Here are five reasons corporate gifting is important and should be practiced:

1.    It respects tradition

Certain corporate cultures expect business gifts as part of a tradition. When working with international companies and clients, there are certain strict business protocols and etiquettes that you need to adhere to. This is why you should take the time to research and know what is expected during business meetings and what to give as a gift. This practice can make a huge difference between closing a deal and letting it fall through the cracks.

2.    It creates mutual respect 

Mutual respect is one vital element in a successful client-business relationship and is also the key to a positive outcome. With the right gift, you are sending the message that you admire the client and hold them in high regard.

3.    It reinforces your brand 

Looking from a marketing perspective, corporate gifting is actually another form of advertising. If you value your brand, gifts can be a great way to show those you do business with that your brand stands for thoughtfulness and strong relationships. Some providers allow for customized gifts, so you can even incorporate your logo on the gifts that you give to your clients, which means that your brand accompanies the warmth they feel when receiving your gift.

4.    It gives you an opportunity to keep the relationship open 

There is a marketing strategy called “drip campaign” where companies constantly make an effort to get in touch with their clients through email or phone call, in an effort to nurture the ongoing relationship and encourage future business. This same principle is applied in the corporate gifting strategy. When your client receives your gift, it creates an open line of communication. As a result, they will most likely respond, which means you have the chance to discuss business needs and solutions—both ongoing and future plans.

5. It helps to set the right tone for business exchanges

When you bring a gift for your client to a business meeting, it emits a sense of positivity on the environment and helps create an encouraging mood. Your client will be grateful for the kind gesture, and with a positive tone, they will be more open to the exchange of business ideas.

Final words

With all the tips above in mind, it is also equally important that you give the right gift that suits the occasion. Although most gifts are given during the holiday season, you don't have to limit yourself to a yearly tradition. Give a small token of appreciation even in times when they least expect it so that your reputation and connection with them will be strengthened in an instant.

There is a principle that is often stated: People will forget what you did or what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel. Start thinking of gift ideas for your clients today! For customized corporate gift ideas or products, check out SilkLetter today.