Savvy B2B Marketing

Michele

Gift certificates and charity donations

If you know your client well, it’s ideal to get something that reflects what that person loves. But, if you need to play it safe, I’m always partial to a gift certificate to Amazon.  Most people I know love books, but if that’s not their thing, they can get practically anything they want. It may seem impersonal, but it’s practical!

Alternatvely, I like the idea of donating to charity in honor of someone. Most people I know don't need any more stuff, so I think this is a nice way to show your appreciation.  

Wendy

Gifts that have a purpose

We all have enough coffee mugs or engraved pens. I hate to give gifts that will just be put in a drawer, instead I try to give gifts of knowledge (books, magazine subscriptions) or gifts that can be used. 

Can't do it too often, but a plate of homemade holiday treats is one that always goes over big. When's the last time you had a chocolate chip cookie made from scratch?  

Although it dosen't fit for every client/occassion another gift that is high on my list this year is a small loan to Kiva given in a person's name. You get monthly updates and when the loan is repaid you get to choose the next person who will be able to borrow the money. 

It's a nice way to let people know that we are all in this thing called life together. 

Jamie

You Can Never Have Too Many Books

As a bona fide bibliophile, I am always thrilled to receive books, so it's no surprise that I also love to GIVE books.

The great thing about gifting books is that you can have the convenience of doing all your shopping in one place (whether that's Amazon or your local indie bookstore), but still give very personal and customized gifts. When shopping for colleagues and clients, don't feel that you have to restrict yourself to business-relevant books. Get creative, have some fun, delve into the more personal side of things. Do you have a client who is a die-hard football fan? Maybe a history of the sport would be a good fit. Maybe you're colleague has an interest in travel - 1,000 places to visit before you die might be a good fit. Or, you can go totally off the wall like me and give illustrated children's books. 

Whatever book you choose, you can inscribe the inside with a personal note - just one more touch to make the gift more memorable.

Happy shopping!

Kate

The Way to Anyone's Heart...

I love to send gift baskets. You can personalize them a bit if you know the person's taste (they make wine baskets, coffee baskets, chocolate, cookies, candy, cheese - you name it) and they are easy to shop for online and get delivered with no crowd-fighting needed.

Several of my clients send me gift baskets as well, and I just love digging in to see what they've sent.