The holidays are the perfect time to express gratitude to the people important to us, both personally and professionally. It can be a challenge, however, to select a business gift that sends the right message yet still feels meaningful to the recipient. Whether for a client, employee, colleague, mentor, important connection or a company gift exchange, here are a few gift ideas that work during the holidays or year-round.
For the Perpetual Learner
True professionals are committed to continuous learning about their industry, role and passions. When someone is dedicated to personal and professional growth, they will enjoy an educational gift such as:
- A book about leadership, motivation or mindfulness
- A professional-development course
- A master class for a skill, hobby or passion.
For the Experience Seeker
It can be difficult to know a person’s tastes or needs when it comes to material items. An experience can be a great gift for those who like to get out and about in their free time. Whether a thrill seeker or someone looking for holiday relaxation, consider gifts such as:
- A spa treatment, meditation class or sound bath
- Tickets to a local concert, play, attraction or event
- A shared dinner, cocktail hour or social event.
For the Interest-based Individual
For some, a regular commitment to an activity is a welcome way to keep a hobby, community, or professional network top of mind. Memberships come in all shapes and sizes and can be a thoughtful gift for those who are loyal fans in different communities such as:
- Book of the month club
- Membership to a local museum
- Subscription box to explore a product type
- Professional association membership.
For the Charitable
Sometimes the best gift you can give goes to someone else. A gift that benefits a charity or an important cause that aligns with the beliefs of your recipient sends a message about your shared values. Considers philanthropic ideas such as:
- A donation in the recipient’s name
- Symbolic “adoption” of wildlife, a star or a community
- A donation to a cause that resonates with the recipient
- Gifts that give back to charity.
For the Personal Touch
Sometimes, a simple but personalized gift is all you need to send a message of gratitude. Especially when giving a lot of gifts during the season, a personalized touch tells the recipient you are thinking about them and that you care. Possibilities include:
- A personalized tumbler, mug or reusable water bottle
- A gift basket, chocolates or food sampler of a favorite product
- Personalized stationery, notepads or desk décor
- A gift card to a favorite store or restaurant.
For the Practical Doer
There are a few daily needs you can expect that every professional has, like notetaking or organizing their workstation. A small, practical gift can fill a need that the recipient already has in a thoughtful way. Consider personalizing here, too, with ideas including:
- Stationery, notebook or high-quality pen
- A calendar, planner, or desk organizer
- A tote bag, reusable grocery bag or tech organizer
- A wireless phone charger, USB flash drive or outlet adapter.
Sharing Good Spirits With a Gift
Throughout the year, but especially during the winter holidays, it’s important to recognize the meaningful relationships you have with customers, employees, vendors, partners and other stakeholders. This is the time of year when professionals are encouraged to break free of their serious side and let good spirits and generosity shine. Show appreciation with a small gift, but don’t forget to simply express gratitude with a message of thanks to spread the joy of the season warmly across both your professional and personal life.
