2020 - The Year of Gifting
2020 has really pushed people to their limits - a pandemic, economic upheaval, and millions of Americans out of work. After facing those challenges, how does an organization thank those loyal employees, customers, partners and suppliers who have stood by them through it all?
In times like these, tokens of our appreciation are more important than ever. Just the simple act of giving can strengthen relationships with the people most important to the business. U.S. companies regularly spend an estimated $125 billion annually on corporate gifts according to the Business Gift Satisfaction Survey. We can only predict this number will rise this year as companies recognize essential workers and those loyal to their business.
Before we know it, holiday season (more notably, gifting season) will be upon us. Now is the time to start thinking about ways we can go above and beyond for those who did the same for us during this pandemic. Think of essential workers who came to work every day, suppliers who helped your business keep running, and customers who stayed loyal to your company. Many risked their health and made sacrifices to be there for your company – they deserve a huge thank you for their efforts.
Gifting the traditional turkey or ham sounds like a great idea. Logistically, however, it is a nightmare when you must send them to lots of people in different locations. And while gift cards allow them to pick out what they want, it’s less memorable and will often go towards buying necessities. Gifts like these are always appreciated but many fail to make a lasting impression because they can be so easily forgotten soon after. It might be best to think of gifts that are more personal, something that says, “We couldn’t have done it without you.”
Creating a memorable gift, one that is valuable to the intended, reminds them they work for or support a business that sees and appreciates them. There’s no greater feeling than receiving, or giving, the perfect gift. While you might wish you could personally pick out unique gifts for each and every person, there just isn’t enough time. Having to consider that they’re all in different points in their lives with distinct interests can make this a tricky situation. You might want to give thought to using programs that offer a variety of gifts that your recipients can personally choose, like Hinda’s Gift Select Now™ and Select An Award. Programs like this can change the whole gifting process from “Here’s your turkey” to “Your hard work, dedication and loyalty is appreciated by us.”
Though 2020 is a year to remember for many reasons, it should be remembered as the year of gifting as well. After the year we’ve had, there is no better time to gift. Now is the time to prepare a list of potential gifts for your employees, customers, partners and suppliers. Consider using programs that help make the gifting process easier for both the company and the recipients. Remember how each played an integral part in your business and how despite the circumstances, your company is still standing.