Well it’s about that time of year already – you know the time when you really should start thinking about Christmas. What? Surely not; but as the management of department stores will tell you, Christmas planning starts in October – well the decorations are out already, so it must be!

Whether you are happy about it or not, now is the time to get the thinking caps on and explore ways of letting your clients know exactly how much you appreciate them. You might do this at other times of the year but for now we will concentrate on the festive season.

According to research a handwritten Christmas card and envelope are the most appreciated items received by clients and customers. This is something your staff could help you with too.

A donation to charity on a client’s behalf is not often viewed favourably. According to Flying Solo “Some people who receive this sort of gift think that you are too busy and they are not important enough for you to spend the time selecting an appropriate gift.” Of course this isn’t to say that it wouldn’t be appreciated by some – maybe make further enquiries about your client’s favourite charity if you wish to pursue this.

What about a hamper? Rather than a “Christmas hamper”, often full of little packets of shortbread and jams, why not source a hamper with goods supplied or produced by a local business. For others there are websites who will produce personalised labels for beer or wine. Perhaps you have a photo of your client or their logo that can be used (rather than your logo) – a thoughtful touch.

Another idea is to organise a local massage therapist for a seated massage session for your client and staff in their office. Perhaps a gift certificate for a champagne breakfast or a wine tour or even a package of time from a personal concierge would be appropriate for some clients.

Perhaps you have thought of some interesting gift ideas – would love to hear about them.

Remember, that if it starts to get ‘all too hard’ or you find yourself running out of time – give me a call, I’ll help you!

Have you surrounded yourself with great staff? You have? Well done!

Are they aware of how much you value their contribution to your company or business? What do you do to show how much you appreciate them?

Many progressive companies are incorporating personal concierge services into their structures. This is a great service to provide to your staff as a bonus, incentive or even as a reward.

It is particularly useful for busy senior managers and executives. If each staff member were given a personal 12 hour block of time to use every 3-6 months, they would spend less time attending to their personal tasks while at work. Any tasks they have on their “to do list”, they simply outsource to their personal concierge.

The employees appreciate this gesture too. They are more motivated, productive and focused when they have a better work life balance. They are part of a cultural change and they are included in a recognition program which in turn leads to increased self esteem.

If you would like to reward your staff, give us a call and we will look after you and your valuable employees.