4 Ways to Overcome Gifting Decision Fatigue
Unsure of what rewards will win over the hearts and minds of your team members? These corporate gift tips will help!
Have you ever walked into the mall or scrolled through Amazon only to feel like there are so many options, there might as well be none? We’ve been there and felt that to our core—especially when the product hunt is for gifts.
Not only is the vast array of options overwhelming, but we want to be sure to send the right message. (For example, gym clothes or a diet book is probably not a wise idea to present someone with for a birthday, Valentine’s Day or holiday gift…unless you are absolutely positive the recipient wants that exact thing and won’t believe you’re trying to send a not-so-subtle memo about their health or body size!)
When it comes to corporate gifts, we understand that there are a wide variety of gift trends and options. Whether you’re searching for something for a milestone gift, an event welcome package or otherwise, keep these selection strategies in mind to help narrow down the choices and hone in on the perfect gift(s).
4 Ways to Overcome Gifting Decision Fatigue
Pay attention.
This sounds simple and perhaps obvious, but it can make a major difference in combating gifting decision fatigue. Invest some time into being curious. Without prying or invading their privacy, you can start keeping a mental (or digital) log of what your team members enjoy doing outside of work, what they snack on or pack in their lunch and what birthday or holiday gifts they comment about after the big day. All of these little details can shed light on their hobbies, passions, cravings and pursuits.
Paying attention to little details in an effort to make others feel “seen” is one of the core building blocks of “unreasonable hospitality,” a concept brought to life by restaurateur and author Will Guidara. In his book Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect, Guidara says, “When you create a hospitality-first culture, everything about your business improves—whether that means finding and retaining great talent, turning customers into raving fans, or increasing your profitability.” Here at BOCS DSM, we couldn’t agree more.
Ask around.
If observation isn’t offering enough insight, feel free to call in some reinforcements, within reason. Whether you ask the individuals directly via staff surveys or share casual conversations with their work BFF or teammates at social outings, sometimes the best way to know what gift might resonate is just to ask.
Let them choose.
To show appreciation through a gift, it must be thoughtful, useful and inclusive. That probably means that T-shirts or mugs with the company logo aren’t often your top choice. At the same time, personalizing every gift for members of a large company or sizable groups of event attendees can be extremely time-consuming and daunting.
If that situation hits home, consider letting the recipient choose their own adventure. Airline credits, gift cards, subscription credits and gift selection platforms are all wise ways to let the gift-getter take some ownership to select their picture perfect present.
Outsource the gifting.
If you’re still unsure of where to start, or simply don’t have adequate time or resources to dedicate to researching yourself, BOCS DSM can guide you through the entire process. Contact Amy and we can take it from here.
No matter which path you choose and regardless of the occasion for the gift, don’t forget a thank you note. A handwritten expression of gratitude is a simple yet elegant way to add a personal touch to any present.