The holiday season is nearly upon us, and this time of year isn’t just for celebration—it’s the perfect time to connect with the people who help shape your business. And one of the best ways to do that? Sending thoughtful, personalized gifts to your professional network.

Corporate gifting might seem like a small gesture, but it makes a big impact in terms of building lasting relationships with your clients and employees. Let’s dive into why sending gifts during the holidays is more than just a nice-to-do; it’s a smart strategy that can drive business opportunities in the new year and beyond. 

Why Appreciation Gifts Matter

When we talk about “making lasting connections”, what it really comes down to is helping your network feel valued. And what better way to show someone in your network that they matter than with a customized, high-quality gift just for them? Corporate gifts can do so much more than simply saying thank you; they’re a way of strengthening the bonds that help drive your business forward.

A gift says, “I see you, and I value what you bring to the table.” It helps foster trust, loyalty, and stronger relationships, whether that’s with a long-term client or an employee who’s been grinding away all year.

If valuing your network doesn’t quite convince you that corporate gifting is worth it, check out these proven impacts that sharing branded gifts can have on your business. 

#1 - Strengthen Relationships With Clients and Employees

A recent industry study showed that a whopping 80% of corporate gift buyers say that gifting helped improve their relationships with clients and employees. Surprised? It’s an impressive stat, but the reason is simple: corporate gifts make people feel seen, valued, and appreciated.

Gifts with a little creativity and personal touch can also deliver a memorable experience to recipients. This approach taps into the idea of “surprise and delight”, and shows that you value your relationship beyond business transactions.

Pro tip: Choose gifts that align with the recipient’s interests or reflect your shared values to really drive home your connection. 

2. Improve Customer Loyalty

If you want to keep your customers coming back, consider sending them a holiday gift. Roughly  70% of businesses believe that gifting enhances brand loyalty.

And that makes sense, right? A thoughtful holiday gift lets your customers know they’re more than just a number; it shows that you appreciate their business, and builds an even more positive association with your brand.

Bonus: Your branded gifts serve as regular reminders of your company. When a customer uses their branded gift (for example, a cozy new fleece or sleek tumbler), they’re more likely to think of your brand when it’s time to make a purchase again.

3. Boost Employee Retention and Productivity

Everyone wants to feel appreciated, and your employees are no different. In fact, 75% of employees say they feel more valued and motivated when they receive gifts from their employer. And during the holidays, a small gesture can really lift spirits.

Gifting your team members something special shows you see their hard work and dedication, and that you value them beyond their workplace responsibilities.

And in return? Happier employees do better work. So take time to share gifts that your team will use again and again to help your employees feel recognized and part of the bigger picture.

4. Generate New Leads and Nurture Relationships

Here’s where gifting really starts to have a measurable ROI: a well-chosen gift can increase the likelihood of a prospect taking a favorable action by 2.3 times. That’s right—a thoughtful gift can help turn a lead into a customer or reignite a connection with someone you haven’t heard from in a while.

Think of holiday gifting as an icebreaker or a relationship-building tool. It gives you an excuse to reach out in a way that feels warm and personal, rather than just a business transaction. 

5. Increase Brand Awareness

Branded gifts aren’t just appreciated—they're cherished over time. As many as 87% of recipients keep corporate gifts for over a year, meaning your brand stays in front of them for a long time. A useful or unique branded item becomes a part of their daily lives, subtly keeping your company top of mind.

Whether it’s branded drinkware or a tech accessory, these items carry your brand into the recipient’s workspace or home, continuously promoting your business in an organic way. This brand visibility is invaluable, particularly during the holiday season when competition for attention is high.

How to Build an Effective Corporate Gifting Program

If you’re thinking of incorporating corporate gifting into your holiday strategy, consider the following best practices:

Personalization is key: Tailor your gifts to the recipient's interests or your shared business goals. Customization adds a thoughtful touch that makes your gift stand out.

Think practical yet unique: While you want your gift to be useful, adding a creative element helps make it memorable. Branded tech accessories, stylish drinkware, or premium apparel are great options.

Focus on quality: Low-quality gifts can reflect poorly on your brand. Choose items that convey the same high standards you apply to your business.

To ensure your corporate gifting program is a success, consider partnering with an expert who can help you navigate options, customization, and fulfillment. Our corporate gifting services at Stran are designed to help you make a lasting impression with thoughtfully curated, high-quality gifts that align with your brand and your recipients’ preferences.

Make an Impact this Holiday Season

This holiday season, leverage the power of corporate gifting to strengthen relationships, enhance loyalty, and increase brand awareness. A thoughtful, well-executed gifting program can leave a lasting impression on your clients, employees, and business partners.

Ready to take your corporate gifting strategy to the next level? Reach out to our team today to start building a custom holiday gifting plan tailored to your business needs.

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Sources: 

Giftafeeling Inc.: https://www.giftafeeling.com/pages/corporate-gifts-statistics-2023#pbitm-id-274 

Tremendous: https://www.tremendous.com/blog/how-to-give-the-ideal-holiday-gift-with-tremendous/ 

Workhuman: https://www.gallup.com/workplace/236441/employee-recognition-low-cost-high-impact.aspx