The holidays are fast approaching, and that means it’s time for giving. But many small businesses are rethinking their gifts to clients this year, reports this article from MSNBC.com. Some are looking to cut their spending; others feel that even if they can afford them, elaborate gifts are inappropriate when so many Americans are in financial straits.
Some of the creative options small businesses are using instead include:
- Taking money you would spend on client gifts and donating it to charity instead. Let the clients know about this in your holiday cards.
- Instead of a gift, offer the client a small discount on their bill as “our gift to you this holiday season.”
- Gift your products or services instead of buying things. One marketing company decided to give its clients free mini-press releases instead of the usual box of chocolates.
- Donate your time to a homeless shelter, veterans’ organization, nursing home or other group that needs some holiday cheer. Invite a client to join you. You’ll build relationships and goodwill.
What kind of giving are you planning to do this holiday season? I’m sure other readers would love to hear your ideas — and maybe try some of them out.
Rieva Lesonsky