Cultural Business Gift Giving

Sending a gift to a client or business with a cultural distinctiveness can pose some challenges, but can be very rewarding if proper consideration is taken. The following tips can help to ease the tension that may arise when considering a gift of ethnic or cultural uniqueness. It may also help to inform you of your client or business partner's particular preferences, and therefore create a closer relationship of appreciation and understanding.

Do some research. The uncertainty of how a gift will be received by a client or business with a cultural distinctiveness can be eased by some simple research of their culture. Certain foods restrictions, presentation rituals, and/or religious considerations may need to be accounted for depending on the occasion, time of year and belief system.

• The Jewish/Israeli Client- It is appropriate to send food to the home of a Jewish family during times of sympathy or condolence; remembering to be respectful of any dietary restrictions. Consider sending a kosher gift to the Jewish or Israeli client.
  



• The French Client- When sending a business gift to a French client, do not include a business card. This is considered improper according to French business etiquette.
  



• The Asian Client- Gifts are traditionally given in Asia at the start of a new relationship or at the end of a successful meeting. This is an expression of both hope in a prosperous future as well as friendship.
  



• The Japanese Client- A gift exchange is a strong symbol of a solid business relationship and is an integral part of the Japanese business process.
  



• The Chinese Client- The Chinese custom is to refuse a gift when presented, but don't stop offering. To avoid the appearance of greed, the Chinese will refuse a gift three times before accepting. When the gift is accepted, make certain to say how very pleased you are. Although reciprocal gift exchange is considered proper etiquette, if you are offered a gift it is expected that you also refuse in the same manner.
  



• The Taiwanese Client- The Taiwanese business culture also includes the popular practice of reciprocal gift giving. It is wise to have a varied array of gifts readily available in the event that you are the recipient of an unexpected gift.
  



• The Indonesian Client- Presenting a modest but thoughtful gift representing your country or company at the first meeting indicates your desire to develop a long-term business relationship. However, if invited by your Indonesian business partner to a dinner party, wait until after the party to send an appropriate gift, perhaps a small fruit arrangement; otherwise, it may be interpreted as an insult as to the adequacy of your host's hospitality.

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General Tips on Business Gifting Etiquette

During the holiday season, business owners naturally incline their thoughts toward showing their appreciation for relationships developed over the past year; or even sharing the anticipation of a deeper or renewed relationship in the coming year. Ideally, the gifts you select should be a reflection of your thoughtfulness, creativity and good taste. The "Tips on Business Gifting Etiquette" assembled here can be useful through the business gifting process.

• Avoid the "Oops" - Many companies (for example government and media outlets) have limiting or prohibitive gift acceptance policies in place. Prior to sending a gift, it is always a good idea to contact the recipient's company regarding any gift acceptance policies that may exist in order to avoid your recipient having to decline or refuse your gift.




• Make It Unique- The gift you choose to send is as much a reflection of you and your company as any other marketing in which you participate. Therefore, try to personalize a business gift so that it reflects your unique image. Use your imagination and creativity to customize your gift so that it makes an impression while it shows appreciation.




• The Repeat Offender- You obviously think highly of your client or you would not be sending a gift. However, if your client receives the same gift from you each year, the gift may be viewed as obligatory or can give a false impression of the value you place on the business relationship.




• Do Some Research- Job duties, personal interests and recipient's location are only a few of the attributes that could be factored into selecting your recipient's gift. Need help with some gifting suggestions? Feel free to consult with our Studio for ideas.
  
Gluten-Free Gift Basket


• Timing is Everything- Sending the appropriate business gift at the right time will always make an impression, especially gifts of appreciation. One caveat, however, would be sending a business gift to a business partner during business negotiations. This can be viewed as bribery. Avoid large, expensive gifts at this time if one must be sent and consider the occasion.



• The Relationship Value- Every business relationship is valuable. A business gift should reflect the value you place on the client; the more respected the client, the more attention and personality that should go into the gift.




• Attention To Detail- Names are very important. Make certain that you have the correct spelling of both the recipient and the company name when sending a personalized gift.

We hope that these tips help to make your business gifting easier. If you decide that a gift basket is the right gift choice for you, well just call our Studio and we will assist you in any way we can. http://www.mrdesignsandgifts.com/