Every year around the holidays companies and business want to show appreciation to their customers. Sending only a Christmas card isn’t going to be any different than all the other businesses out there sending cards. However, a corporate logo gift is not only an excellent way to build or maintain business relationships, it also builds brand awareness.

There are many different promotional corporate gifts out there in the market place, from plaques, pins, and ties to coffee mugs. I can almost guarantee your clients have already received these types of gifts. However, have you considered custom made logo sandals? A pretty unique idea. Not only can you order sandals in your business colors and company logo printed on the straps or on the foot bed, but a cut-out of your business name on the bottom of the sandals leaves a nice imprint on any sandy beach or soft surfaces. It's like having a walking billboard for your business. Besides that, sandals are a unique gift that promotes fun.

Etiquette to gift giving

Before sending corporate gifts, be sure to check the company's policy on gift giving. Some companies have strict policies concerning gifts from vendors. For example, many companies place restrictions on the value of the gift or on the situations in which gifts may be given. Ask the personnel department for the company's guidelines.

Once you have checked the corporate policy on gift giving, figure out your gift giving budget. How many clients will be receiving gifts? How many will you need? Be sure to plan for some overage, as unexpected clients might come to mind at the last minute. In addition, anyone of these clients may ask for an extra pair for their spouse or close friend. The more people wearing your corporate logo sandals, the more brand awareness this brings to you.

Presentation of the gift is very important. Put your gift in a nice box, gift wrap it or use a gift bag. Remember to enclose a personal note with the gift.

When to give gifts

While the holiday season is the standard time of the year for corporate gift giving, also consider a special anniversary, appreciation of a large order or contract, a referral gift of someone who referred business to you, birthdays, retirements, promotions, etc. Maybe a client of yours is going on a honeymoon. Give them a "his and hers" set of sandals.

Avoid gift giving during a bidding process. This may look more like a bribe than a gift. Wait until you have won the contract or business.

Conclusion

Remember, you want to stand out from the competition. When done properly, gift giving is an excellent way of showing appreciation to long-standing customers and valued employees.

For more information regarding custom corporate gifts visit: www.NeetFeet.com.

A native Californian, Kathy Klossner's creative outlet is in her web designs, writing and photography.