It’s that time of year when many of us receive holiday gifts from clients, suppliers, and colleagues. It’s also an excellent opportunity for companies and organizations to send gifts to good leads and prospects in the hopes of opening a door or two. That’s not an uncommon business tactic. But, let’s be frank … how many gift recipients actually thank senders?
Our company sent out several gifts to clients, colleagues, and prospects. I can count on one hand how many sent an e-mail or thank-you note to show their appreciation. Of course, there’s no obligation on their part to have a relationship with us, but surely, they can say thanks regardless. It’s not only business etiquette— it’s personal etiquette. And it speaks volumes about their personal brands and the organizations for which they work. Now, maybe some will acknowledge receiving their gifts early in January, but I’m not so optimistic.
Has the economic downturn created a general malaise in business? Or have good manners gone by the wayside? With so many blog posts and articles on relationship building and engagement, why do you think so many people blow off the concept of saying thanks?
Have you experienced this, too? Have you ever neglected to thank a business-related gift sender during the holiday season? Do tell.
Tags: Business and Economy, engagement, Etiquette, Gift, holiday gifts, Lead Generation, prospects, relationships
Sorry, but business gifts are in the no-man’s land between real gifts and marketing. Real gifts show that you care about family or friends, business gifts usually have ulterior motives and fall in the same category as business lunches. I try not to let business gifts or lunches influence my evaluation of the business’s products or services. Although, I like Bill Swanson’s philosophy that how a business vendor treats the waiter can be telling about how they will ultimately treat you.
Hi, Rob. I agree that holiday business gifts are part of a marketing strategy – to show appreciation to (and retain) existing clients and to try to foster new ones. There’s no ulterior motive; I think the objective is fairly obvious.
As for business lunches, whenever someone treats me to lunch, I always follow up with an e-mail or handwritten note of thanks. Of course, there’s no obligation that I do business with that individual, but I believe it’s simply good manners.
Thanks for your comment!