The holiday client gift handbook: Create lasting relationships

The holiday season is not just a time for festive decorations and gatherings; it's also a perfect opportunity for businesses to strengthen their client relationships through impactful client appreciation gifts.

In this holiday client gift handbook, we'll explore the art of selecting the right gifts, the return on investment for client gifts, the importance of personalization, the significance of timing and delivery, and how to navigate cultural sensitivities. Let's unwrap the secrets to creating lasting connections with your valued clients.

Gift-giving isn't just a holiday tradition; it's a strategic investment in your business relationships. When you take the time to select thoughtful gifts for your clients, you send a powerful message that goes beyond the tangible item. You convey appreciation and recognition for their trust and loyalty.

This gesture of gratitude can foster a sense of value and connection, often resulting in increased client loyalty and a higher likelihood of repeat business. In a world where genuine relationships are a cornerstone of success, client gifts are a meaningful way to nurture and strengthen those connections.

According to a study by Corsight, 80% of corporate gift buyers reported that their client relationships had seen notable improvements due to gifting. In this research, involving 300 corporate gift buyers, nearly half of the participants (48%) described these improvements as a "substantial benefit." Another advantage included enhanced customer loyalty (43%).

Gifting your clients creates an emotional connection between your brand and the gift recipient. Customers who establish an emotional connection with a brand exhibit a significantly higher lifetime value (LTV), amounting to a remarkable 306% increase in their LTV. This was shown in research by Motista, which involved over 100,000 customers across various retail sectors.

Emotionally connected customers exhibit greater brand loyalty and remain engaged with a brand for an average of 5.1 years compared to 3.4 years for those who lack this connection. Additionally, they are far more inclined to recommend a brand they are emotionally connected with, with a recommendation rate of 71% compared to 45% for those not emotionally connected.

Increasing customer retention by just 5% can increase profit gains by up to 95%. Gifting fosters a stronger bond between customers and your brand, and this inevitably bolsters their loyalty and retention. Research conducted by Bain & Company revealed that a 5% boost in customer retention rates translates to profit increases ranging from 25% to a remarkable 95%.

Furthermore, Bain & Company’s findings emphasize the significance of nurturing repeat business. Repeat customers, on average, contribute 67% more to revenue than their first-time counterparts.

Selecting the right client gifts is more than just a gesture; it's a strategic move that can leave a lasting impression and build relationships. The gift you choose reflects your appreciation and an understanding of your client's likes, dislikes, and preferences, setting the tone for your ongoing business relationship. A good gift should be;

One size doesn't fit all when it comes to client gifts. Take the time to understand your client's tastes and interests. Are they coffee enthusiasts or tech-savvy individuals? Do they value relaxation and wellness or prefer experiences? Knowing these details can help you select gifts that resonate with them.

Personalization goes beyond monogrammed items or branded merch. It's about showing that you've put thought into the gift selection. It could be as simple as choosing a book on their favorite topic or a gadget that complements their lifestyle. Personalized gifts make clients feel seen and appreciated.

Go one step further and gift your clients a choice this holiday season. By hand-selecting a few items you think they would love and offering your clients the option to choose which they would prefer, you show how much you value the relationship. Discover the power of choice in holiday gifting.

Still trying to figure out how to choose the right client gift? We’ve mapped out the rules for giving a good gift and here are a few great client gifts for the holidays.

Personalization is a powerful tool for strengthening client relationships. Personalized, branded gifts show that you've gone the extra mile to make sure they will love your chosen gift.

Here are some of our favorite personalized and branded gifts.

In this digital age, tech gadgets are always a hit. Consider gifting clients items like noise-canceling headphones, smart devices, or speakers. These gifts showcase your appreciation and suit the modern lifestyle of many professionals.

Our top tech gadget picks for your clients:

The holiday season can be stressful. Show your clients you care about their well-being by gifting relaxation and wellness items. Options like essential oil diffusers, cozy blankets, or a subscription to a meditation app can help your clients unwind and recharge.

See our top relaxation and wellness gifts here:

Sometimes, one gift isn't enough to express your gratitude. Bundles and hampers offer a delightful assortment of goodies. You can choose a collection of gourmet treats, spa products, or even a selection of wines and cheeses. Bundles and hampers bring an element of surprise and indulgence to your client's holiday season. And who doesn’t love a hamper during the holidays?

Check out our top hamper gift sets:

Consider digital gifts or charitable donations in the form of cause gifts for a unique approach. A subscription to Masterclass, or an Airbnb experience are great client gifts. Additionally, charitable donations can demonstrate your commitment to social responsibility. Read more about sustainable gifting here.

Our favorite digital and cause gifts:

Being culturally inclusive when giving holiday gifts is essential. Here are some guidelines:

Uncover the history, cultural significance, and global practices of meaningful holiday gifting with our blog: The joy of holiday gifting.

Choosing &Open for holiday client gifting campaigns creates unforgettable experiences for your recipients.

Our ethos at &Open is to gift less but gift well. Since you’ve picked out the perfect client gift, when and how should you send it? Well, it’s simple for holiday gifts: the holidays, but let’s drill down a little more on that.

Timing is crucial when it comes to holiday gift-giving. Aim to send your gifts early enough to arrive before the holiday rush. Consider the specific dates and holidays that hold significance for your clients. Sending gifts on their birthdays or customer milestones can also be thoughtful.

As we wrap up this holiday client gift handbook, remember that giving is more than the gift itself. It expresses gratitude and appreciation for your client's trust and partnership. In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, a thoughtful gift can remind your clients of the value you bring to their business.

As you plan your client gifts, consider each client's unique preferences and interests, and remember to start early to ensure your gifts make a significant impact.

Ready to create memorable holiday moments with your clients? Strengthen your client relationships today and make this holiday season one to remember. Explore &Open's corporate gifting platform via a demo.