It used to be that when Christmas, a retirement or a birthday came round in an office, you could expect to get; a clock, a nice pen, or a paperweight.
Not that there is anything wrong with such gifts of course. However, in more contemporary times corporate gift giving has changed and now the scope to be more inventive, unique and personal is far greater - and we think that’s definitely for the better!
Whether it’s that office environments have changed, and now colleagues are more likely to be good friends or that people have simply got bored with giving and receiving the same tried and tested items, the trend for giving more personal, thoughtful gifts, whatever the office occasion, is only getting stronger.
We all love beautiful stationery or items that help us do our jobs better or stay more organised - they’re great. However, receiving a truly thoughtful gift that gives a nod to your interests outside work is far more touching and demonstrates that your colleagues know you well and were actually listening when you were droning on about how much you loved stamp collecting/ cricket/ pastry baking etc.
A thoughtful business gift can be extremely compelling. Giving staff members something they actually want and have a use for, or something personalised to them will demonstrate that they work for a business who takes the time to get to know their employees. A gift that has had some thought put into it makes the receiver feel appreciated, special and valued, and businesses whose employees feel this way are more likely to report job satisfaction, take pride in their work and remain loyal to the company too.
A thoughtful corporate gift for those who you’d like to do business with can also be extremely powerful. When it’s obvious you’ve taken the time and made an effort to give something they’ll truly appreciate, this can be what seals that vital business deal!
Even when you’ve got lots of people to buy for, adding a personal touch can make all the difference. An engraving or etching to personalise a gift will show that you’ve made an effort and make each person's gift that little bit unique from the others.
So, what are the top business gifts that really show how thoughtful your company is?
1. Homeware items
There has been a definite rise in the popularity of giving useful yet sophisticated homeware gifts as business gifts. A pair of Gin & Tonic glasses, a crystal jug, a fruit bowl engraved with a personal message - these items are all stylish and elegant and are sure to be appreciated by the receiver.
2. Wallets or jewellery
If you want to get genuinely personal a beautiful wallet or an initial charm bracelet can make for a truly touching and unexpected gift that business colleagues are sure to love.
3. Themed gifts
If you know that the person has a particular hobby or passion, a gift themed around this can be very impressive. Whether they love a specific sport, are really into travel and technology or have a particular affinity with a certain city or place, choosing a gift that recognises their interests outside the office will be appreciated.
4. Picture frames
Of course you can’t go wrong with a high-quality and tasteful picture frame which you can engrave accordingly and fill with a picture or photograph of your choice. This is a lovely way to capture a great memory and remind that person of the great times they’ve had in the business.
5. Personalised items
Even if you go down the tried and tested pen, paperweight or clock route, choosing to add a personal touch such as dates, initials or a kind message will make your gift infinitely more moving, and that bit more special.
Giving a gift that warms someone's heart and shows them how much you care is what gift giving is all about. Corporate gifts no longer have to be impersonal and safe and the more thought and effort that goes into a business gift the more appreciation you’ll get in return.
At Inkerman, we are specialists in the art of giving stylish, personalised gifts, whatever the occasion. So whether you are looking for a wonderful retirement gift, a thoughtful birthday present or just something simple but unique to show your employees your appreciation for their hard work, you are sure to find what you are looking for in our extensive range!
