I received an invitation to a dinner party, do I bring a gift?
When you're invited to "get together" it is appropriate to bring a small gift to show your appreciation for the invitation. This could be a candle, some fresh flowers or a bottle of wine.
Is money an appropriate gift?
Monetary gifts are appropriate in very few situations. For example, when a teen-ager requests it. But for the most part, you should avoid giving money. It is more thoughtful to give a gift card or certificate,
but only if you have taken the time to consider what the recipient may enjoy, such as a particular store or restaurant the person or couple visits.
I am invited to an event that specifies "Please, No Gifts". Is it okay to "not" bring a gift?
If the invitation specifically reads "No gifts please" then it is appropriate to respect that request. If you must bring something, try a card or other small sentiment. You could even make a donation
to a charitable organization in the recipient's name.
Do I have to wrap my gift?
YES! Presentation is everything and says "I care" just as much as the gift itself simply because you took the time to wrap it. If time or skills do not permit, buy a decorative bag and some tissue paper.
Could you list appropriate corporate gift occasions?
Gift occasions for the corporate world......
While the holiday season is the standard time of year for corporate gift giving, many other occasions merit gift giving and will make and impact on the recipient:
To Promote:
Your company's products or services
To Show Appreciation To:
A hard-working employee
A client for new or continued business
Someone who has referred business to you
To Motivate or Encourage:
Employees facing boring, unpleasant or difficult tasks
An ill client or employee
To Celebrate or Congratulate:
A business anniversary
The birth of a baby
A birthday
A retirement
A new job or promotion
Completion of an important project
The opening of a new office
Could you list some general corporate gift giving guidelines?
General guidelines and tips for "Business/Corporate Gift Giving":
1. Gift giving should only be done if you currently do business with the organization. Gifts sent during a bidding process or while in negotiations may be misinterpreted!
2. Your relationship with the recipient should play an important part in the gift decision. If you have a client that is not particularly friendly, do not assume that a gift will strengthen that relationship.
3. If you have several contacts within an organization, consider sending a gift suitable for an office setting. A food basket or tray is ideal but make sure the items do not require preparation and are non-perishable.
4. Always check the organizations policy on gifts. Many now have restrictions in place regarding the value of the gifts given.
5. If the gift is for an individual, try to tailor the gift to the individual's hobbies or interests. Make sure the gift cannot be misconstrued as "too personal", especially across gender lines.
6. When possible, personal delivery is preferable. When this is not practical, include a personalize note.
7. Frequency of gifts should be limited to major holidays and special occasions. Depending on the nature of the relationship, it is appropriate to send gifts on personal occasions, such as to mark the birth of a child.
8. While the corporate logo on a gift provides free advertising, it could be interpreted as tacky. It is more appropriate to leave logo customization to gifts that will be used daily such as mugs, keychains, coasters, etc. Never put a company on a logo you want to leave the impression that it is coming personally from you.
9. Do not re-gift a present that has been given unless: a) It is still in it's original packaging; b) it is appropriate for the next recipient; and c) the re-gifting will NOT be discovered (by the original giver not the recipient).
10. If you have any concerns about the appropriateness of the gift or how it may be construed, then reconsider! Choose a beautiful card and write a personal note or send a donation to a charitable organization. Always guard against even the appearance of impropriety. It can only hurt a business relationship.....it will never help.
Gift Receiving Etiquette
When you receive a gift, no matter what you think of it, say "Thank You". Always accept any gift politely and remember that it is a GIFT.
"Thank You" notes are highly regarded in the gift giving etiquette world. They are particularly common after bridal showers, baby showers or a wedding. However, if the gift was opened in front of the giver when it was given, then a "Thank You" note isn't absolutely necessary, although it is still appropriate. Notes do not have to be completely formal, their importance lies in the sentiment.
|
