Client Gifts - Ideas?

While many think an appropriate gift for your client is a good old box of chocolates or a gift certificate to your local Applebee's, think again! Chocolates are coming in by the dozen and why tell your client to spend their dollars at another business? The secret to holiday giving is to promote yourself and your company while showing the client you really care.

In my recent blog readings, I've come across many holiday card and gift giving ideas. Being that we're so close to the holidays, I thought I'd share a little of my knowledge with you.

Open House
One of the easiest things to do for your clients over the holidays is to have an open house. Work up some one-of-a-kind invitations and invite your guests to stop by your nicely decorated office for some nog and some laughs. Include a few gingerbread men and you've just given your client a good experience and possibly some new business ideas, if the networking opportunities are there. Plus, it's bank-account friendly.

Wine
Nothing says happy holidays like a bottle of wine or liquor. However, this one can be a little tricky. I would shy away from this option unless you and your client have a more familiar relationship. Make it easy on yourself and avoid asking, "Red or White? Brandy or Rum?" Instead, I'd stick with a bottle of Champagne if you're unsure, after all, New Year's is just around the corner. With this gift, your client is sure to think of you as a classy colleague.

Gift Certificates
If you're lucky enough to have connections for some cool sports tickets or a great concert, feel free to pass these along. However, this can be a great networking opportunity. Gift certificates for your service (i.e. a free logo evaluation, a free month's of website maintenance, or whatever comes to mind) are a great way to give your client something they can really use. Furthermore, it can up your sales. If the client doesn't have a need for it, chances are they'll pass it along to someone who does. Referrals, referrals!

Custom Made Gifts
One trend a lot of creatives have been shelling out at Christmas is their very own, custom made wrapping paper. Gift wrap is a great creative outlet and everyone can benefit from it. Furthermore, it's an opportunity to show off your skills and have it passed from person to person! What's better than having your client wrap a gift for their boyfriend's-sister's-friend's-uncle and then, what do you know, you've got your work in front of them. A few more creative options are calenders, greeting card kits, stationery systems, notepads, etc. Put on those creative caps!

Music
Ahhh, the gift of music. Such a good one. What's a cooler gift than you customizing your very own mix CD - and it doesn't have to be cheap either. Compile a disc of holiday music, jazz, whatever, and add a cool CD cover. Customize it to reflect your service or creativity and slap your contact info on there. BAM! You've got a holiday disc that's so good, they'll pull it out for a listen every year. Furthermore, you've got a business card in the form of a cool CD right in front of them.

Green Option
I am crazy about the eco-friendly gifts. Love them! The coolest thing I think I've seen this year is grow-a-note greeting cards. You send out the cards and the receiver can plant them. In the spring, they'll have a beautiful flower garden right before their eyes! You also get to look like the hero who's out to save the environment in a cool and trendy fashion. For some other awesome gift ideas, check out greengiftguide.com.