Etiquette for Office / Business Gift Giving
From Giftypedia
- Many companies and large corporations have rules and restrictions on whether their employees can accept gifts. Some have guidelines on the type or value of gifts that can be accepted. Check with the person you want to give the gift to or the HR department where the person works to make sure they can accept gifts and not be required to decline gifts, as well as any restrictions.
- Gifts of a personal nature should be avoided. Gift certificates related to health, beauty, fitness or gifts such as perfumes are better off left to a family member. You don't want to give a gift that could possibly be misunderstood as an implication that they need to change something about their appearance.
- While a bottle of wine may seem like the perfect gift for a client, alcohol is usually not recommended unless you know their likes and dislikes in this area. You don't want to take the chance of giving alcohol to someone who doesn't or shouldn't drink.
- There's a saying, "There's two things you should never talk about... Religion and Politics." This also applies to gift giving with clients and business associates. Avoid gifts related to religion or politics unless you are confident of their beliefs or the recipient/group is part of an organization affiliated with this topic. You don't want to take any chance of offending the recipient.
- Using your gift to advertise your company may give the impression that the gift is no more than a company giveaway. When giving a gift to a single person from a single person, or from a small group to a small group, avoid sending gifts that have your company logo plastered all over it. However, this can be acceptable if this is a gift given from the company to a large group of recipients.
When looking at office gifts, always ask yourself, "How would I feel if I received this gift from a business associate?" As with any gift giving opportunity, giving a gift that you have put some thought into will be reflected in the gift. Your gift will leave an impression with the recipient, make sure it leaves the impression you want to give.
[edit] International Gift Protocol
Gifts in the business world are a symbolic way to show appreciation and further relationships. If your business extends beyond US borders, it is important that you research not only the policies of the companies you are doing business with, but the customs of the countries, as well. Global companies are influenced by different cultures and different religions.
Whenever considering a gift of food, be cognizant of religious dietary restrictions. In the Muslim faith, alcohol and foods from pork, birds, and shellfish are prohibited. In the Jewish religion, pork and shellfish are prohibited. The cow is sacred In the Hindu culture, therefore foods made from animal products are to be avoided.
The traditions of gift giving vary dramatically from one country to another. In Japan, the graciousness in which you give and receive is focused on. In some countries, gifts given before establishing a relationship give the impression that the gift is meant as a bribe, while in other countries, gifts of the wrong color are offensive.
Taking the time to learn more about who you are doing business with will help develop good business relationships. Having chosen an appropriate gift will send the message that the gift was chosen specifically for him or her. The recipient will appreciate your thoughtfulness and your business relationship will flourish.
