Thank Your Customers with Gifts
<p>With Christmas fast approaching, we are in the middle of a time of year when we should thank the people we care about. For a freelancer or self-employed person, this can be translated into giving a gift to your collaborators or your most important customers. Do people still thank their customers with gifts? What should you give? Let's take a closer look so that you avoid any missteps.</p>
<h3><strong> Why You Should Give Your Customers a Gift</strong></h3>
<p> For starters, there are several reasons why you should give a small gift to your customers–if you can afford it of course. First, it could be part of your loyalty plan. People appreciate when you think of them and that leaves a lasting memory of your collaboration or professionalism. Otherwise, gifts can certainly help ensure you are not forgotten. That's why it's important to choose a gift that will be useful–we will talk about that later on in the article. You also don't have to wait until Christmas to thank someone, you could do it at the end of a big contract or on their birthday, for example.</p>
<h3><strong> Who Should You Give a Gift to?</strong></h3>
<p> Partners, suppliers, customers... There are a few people who probably deserve a little kindness from you. However, start by checking your budget, and try not to do things at the last minute. There will be times when a nice personalized card is a reasonable gesture. Also, consider paying the delivery fee if you want to send something tangible in the mail. You don't have to give something to everyone either. Make a list of your customers for the year based on their importance, but also on how much you'd like to keep them for the long term. Then make some choices. Do you prefer to give a small gift to everyone or bigger gifts to your best customers? Have partners or suppliers stood out in the past year?</p>
<h3><strong> What Could You Offer?</strong></h3>
<p> It is very easy to give a tacky corporate gift or one that is overused. Pens, notebooks, calendars, and keyrings are given far too often. When searching for the perfect gift, why not take inspiration from what you do as a self-employed person? If you are a graphic designer or illustrator, you could give an object with one of your designs. You could also give something complementary and free that is tailored to your customers' needs. However, be careful not to appear too promotional. For example, if you already have an ongoing contract with a client for photos, you could offer an additional free photograph as a holiday present to thank them for doing business with you.</p>
<p> Then try to find a gift that will be useful and not placed in a closet. If your client regularly uses your gift, they will more easily think you when they need your services. Don't hesitate to put your name or logo on the gift for more visibility. But where do you find the perfect gift for your customers? First, do you know their interests or tastes? Don't hesitate to search the web for sports or culinary accessories. Perhaps there are craftsmen in your area who might have something that will set you apart from the other gifts. Otherwise, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca">you can get inspiration on Etsy</a>. Many also like receiving food or wine but check first if your customers have any allergies or restrictions before choosing these options.</p>
<h3><strong> What The Law Says</strong></h3>
<p> Before you rush to the store to buy the perfect gift for your customers, we would like to advise you of some important legislation. You may have heard of several scandals related to gifts, sponsorships or bribes in recent years. Here are some rules to follow to avoid trouble with the authorities.</p>
<p> Regarding your customers' gifts: According to the Canada Revenue Agency, you can accept gifts from your customers on the condition that they are not given as payment for work done. If this is the case, you will need to declare the gift on your tax return.</p>
<p> According to the Revenue Agency, you can deduct gifts you give customers from your income as a demonstration that you are "committed to establishing or maintaining a customer base." Some of these expenses could also be considered representation expenses. However, it is very important to keep your receipts, and that gifts remain reasonable. Find in this article the expenses that can be <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/as-a-freelancer-what-expenses-can-i-deduct">deducted as a self-employed person</a>.</p>
<h3> <strong>If you have any questions about this, please check with your accountant.</strong></h3>
<p> In conclusion, giving thank-you gifts to your customers are at your discretion. However, we hope we have given you some ideas that will help you build customer loyalty. Follow the law, then know how to find a little something that will represent you well so that your client automatically thinks about your services when he/she needs them. That being said, the entire Momenteo team would like to take this opportunity to wish you a happy holiday season and many great business opportunities in 2020!</p>
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