Often it is the little concerned presents that have the most meaningful effect on the company overall outlook and perceptions.  It is as though the company director – apparently without due consideration - saying “take Friday afternoon off so you can get a jump on the weekend traffic!”   It permits the workforce to see that the company has a human face and that they as a workforce matter.

More examples are a ham or turkey for Christmas or Easter, and the immemorial gold watch on retirement.  Food in particular instills increased feelings for memorable occasions and is appreciated at any time.  Let cultural traditions and family work for you!

Buying anniversary gifts can be a very delicate scenario since it reflects what YOU think about that anniversary. Take the time to get it right! Gifts that are light-hearted and trivial would obviously be the wrong ones to commemorate the passing of a loved one, yet may be the exact right one to commemorate the first occasion you met someone.

Often gift certificates are the most diplomatic AND considerate solution to present giving. They are politically correct since the recipient can determine exactly how your dollar is spent and you do not offend anyone's tastes.

When you give corporate gifts you need to understand the political ramifications. The consequences of getting it wrong can have far-reaching financial effects.

Regardless of size, every company should instigate a corporate gifts strategy.  This uncomplicated proposal has become a science not an art but its challenges are not easy to learn.

Even if your intentions are solely humanitarian - for example, providing a vacational gift just because “you wanted to spread some light”, appropriate corporate gift giving produces a favorable return on your investment. 

When considering baby shower gifts you need to see the long term child's view AND the mother's. Rather than have your gift relegated to some crowded drawer space, take the time to see that it takes pride of place, long-term. Silver spoons and rattles may be cute for the first year or so, however the teenager will not want that gift prominently displayed when their friends come around.

Sometimes birthday gift ideas do not work out too well if you don't know what passions drive the recipient. Find out their tastes before committing. Perhaps they are heavily into music, so a magazine subscription to Heavy Metal Grunge Monthly may turn out to be considered the coolest present they ever received. If they are Vegans, they may not appreciate an annual subscription to Guns and Ammo magazine.