Believe it or not, extensive scientific research and theorizing has been done on the giving and receiving of gifts – what motivates people to do it, what purpose it serves, and what benefits it brings to the parties giving and receiving.
One school of thought views it as a purely pragmatic way of generating obligation on the part of the person getting the gift, putting pressure on them to reciprocate in some way – I gave you a present, now you owe me something just as good. One study looking at people who buy lots of gifts for their pets, however, points out that these folks can’t be expecting a dog or cat to feel obliged to buy them something in return for that nice chew toy or catnip mouse.
One thing experts do seem to agree on is that the giving and receiving of gifts plays a major role in how people co-exist and relate to each other. The choice of a gift sends a message to its receiver about what kind of person we think they are, what kind of relationship we have or want to have with them, and how much we value them.
True For Both People and Companies
What’s true of individuals in this case also goes for organizations. When you give a corporate gift, the evidence that you put some thought into your choice, and made it with the recipient in mind, counts for a lot. In a 2010 article in the Harvard Business Review, corporate CEO Peter Bregman suggests that gift-giving, whether personal or corporate, should be all about appreciation – “We give people gifts to show them that we are grateful for them and value the role they play in our lives.”
One simple and effective way to show you chose a corporate gift with its recipient in mind is to select something you think they will really use or appreciate. Another is to personalize whatever gift you choose with a custom engraved message.
The Best Corporate Gifts Aren’t Cookie-Cutter
Gifts are meant to add value but it’s easier said than done to find one that genuinely makes the recipient feel appreciated. The best way to create an intimate attachment between a gift and its recipient is to have the award engraved. But engraving is always the last step when finding a gift, especially if you’re drawing a blank as to what to purchase. The best way to find a corporate gift that adds value to the recipient is to figure out their likes and dislikes. Speak to colleagues and managers to find a unique corporate gift that feels one-of-a-kind. A gift doesn’t necessarily need to have a practical, workplace-oriented purpose to it. While engraved pens can have employees engaged while they sign documents and contracts, it may not make them feel as empowered an engraved acrylic achievement award would.
What’s the difference between engraved pens and engraved acrylic awards? The former is directly tied to work and performance, meaning the employee immediately relates their personalized gift to boost their performance. It’s seen as a direct incentive to work better and faster. Whereas engraved crystal recognition awards don’t serve a purpose beyond acknowledging one’s accomplishments and sometimes that’s enough to keep employees motivated. It serves as an artistic reminder that their hard work is being recognized and noticed by their employers.
With engravable trophies and plaques, you can tap into several different themes and ideas to create a response that leaves the employee recognized and fulfilled. Crystal awards like the Keepsake Box are great for employees who are known to be sentimental and love to immortalize events and the people in their life. For something more inventive and novel, engraved glass gifts like art glass trophies are great way to spice up any office or desk. Employees will always cherish the beauty that these awards bring.
Once you come across a theme or idea that speaks to the employee, it’s time for have the award engraved. How long does it take to engrave an award or corporate gift? We can have your personalized corporate gifts ready for you in a matter of days, shipped out before you actually deliver it. Whatever recognition gift you choose, make sure that the engraving notes that you appreciate the employee’s efforts.
