As the holiday season wraps up this month, one question most business leaders and owners will need to answer is what they will be giving their employees and clients. During the past few years, with the economy still recovering, many businesses chose not to give any gifts. But as business has become more stable, and even started growing, many are considering what they can give. So what can be given that will really set your organization apart? What gift can help lead to client retention and employee satisfaction?
For your employees, it’s important that they feel like their gift is unique or personal to them. According to Greg Kern, executive vice president of Select-Your-Gift, a company that provides employee recognition and incentive programs, gifts should be about the employee.
“There are two key points when choosing gifts for employees: give employees a gift they want and can use, and include a personal message,” Kern said. If you decide that your business isn’t financially ready to give gifts, consider a hand-written note to your employees, thanking them for their hard work and service to the company. Often a gift like a personal note can mean more than a cash bonus or sleek, electronic device.
Whatever the gift is for employees, the most important thing to remember is to leave an impression with them by showing appreciation and gratitude for their work during the year. Don’t be afraid to let them know how thankful you are for them being a part of the team with a note
A recent report from the American Express OPEN Small Business Holiday Monitor revealed that 51 percent of company managers at more than 500 small businesses surveyed said they are sending presents to their clients. That’s an eight percent increase from 2011. As you begin to think about what you can give to your clients and customers for the holiday season, consider giving gifts that are both creative and practical for their needs, while checking regulations on gift giving for tax purposes.
As a partner with their business in seeing them achieve more success, you should know your clients well enough to know what gift will make the biggest impact. Can you offer them a discount or special price on your product or service in the first month or quarter of 2015? It may not be a traditional gift, but it’s sure to be one they can use to their advantage to start the new year. Maybe a donation to a local charity in the company’s name would be a rewarding alternative to traditional.
Your business wouldn’t be where it is today without your clients and employees. This holiday season, take advantage of the opportunity to give back and show them in a unique way that you appreciate them. It could lead to stronger employee engagement and better client satisfaction in the new year and allow you to give back even more this time next year.
Connie Druliner, Franchise Owner
Express Employment Professionals
61379 S Highway 97
Bend, OR 97702-2105
541-389-1505
connie.worrell@expresspros.com
