Tips for choosing corporate gifts - Brief Article

Nation's Business, Jan, 1996 by Roberta Maynard

What is the best type of gift to give as a sales incentive, an achievement award, or a simple thank-you to a loyal client or supplier? Vern Kagan, owner of Smart Jewelers, in Lincolnwood, Ill., has operated a successful corporate-gift program for 15 years, and he suggests that companies consider the following:

Is the item practical? Can it be used or displayed? Many gifts are attractive, but function adds value. For employee gifts, consider an item that is not related to work.

Is it appropriate for both men and women? Choose something with designs for both, but of equal value.

Is it a known brand? A recognizable manufacturer or brand helps convey value.

Can it be personalized? Determine whether you want your company logo or the recipient's name--or both--to ap pear, and choose a gift accordingly.

In addition, Kagan offers some questions that can be asked of gift suppliers:

* Can they deliver quickly? Be sure you can get a quick replacement if you discover the day before an event that someone has been overlooked or that an engraved name was misspelled.

* What are the quantity requirements? Can you get a single item, or must you order in large numbers?

* Are volume discounts available? If you need only a few gifts a year but discounts are available for volume, consider purchasing enough gifts to last a few years.