Prior to examining the perspectives of human resources on the disadvantages of organizational gifts, we compiled a list based on their opinions regarding common mistakes in purchasing corporate gifts. Additionally, from the viewpoints of other professionals on LinkedIn, we reviewed opinions that highlight the benefits of buying organizational gifts and their impact on human resources and organizational culture. In this article, we aim to share some insights from senior managers and influential LinkedIn figures who have shared their experiences regarding corporate gift-giving.
But what do organizational managers tell us about corporate gifts?
1- Mahdi Parhizkar, a Digital Marketing Manager, says: “Don’t forget about ‘inappropriate gifting’: Giving gifts doesn’t always have to be on occasions like International Women’s or Men’s Day or birthdays. Don’t overlook the value of spontaneous gifts, which might even surpass occasion-based ones; because unlike event-specific gifts, they carry less of a sense of obligation.”
2- Mohammadreza Mahdizadeh, a Sales Manager, shares: “The best gift a CEO can give to their team is information they need and can use at any time without having to request it. This is what constitutes a good leadership strategy. Leaders use it as a test of their actions and behaviors—provided that the strategy is actively implemented.”
3- Reza Farhnak, a Digital Marketing Manager, also recommends the following when preparing organizational gifts:
- The more personalized, the better!
- How hospitable is your brand?
- Based on needs (convey the feeling well – premium items do this effectively)
- The recipient’s name should be engraved on it
- The message and brand name should be engraved
- Ensure your gift is visible and used (practical)
- Try to tell a story with your gift
- If your company has branding guidelines, strictly adhere to them
- Follow organizational policies
- Your gift should appear thoughtful and compel the recipient to reflect deeply, immersing them in it
- Consider the age of the recipient
4- Omid Sharifi, a Human Resources Supervisor, reminds us: “Many companies support large organizations by handling promotional activities. They give away gifts for free in exchange for some advertising. If your budget is limited, this can be a suitable option for you.”
5- Saman Raki, a Quality Control Manager, shares this insight about purchasing organizational gifts: “Dear employer, the well-being of your organization is directly linked to the well-being of your employees! One of the most effective ways to improve employee morale—and ultimately the organization—is by recognizing and appreciating your staff. Recognition and appreciation during various occasions feel like a burst of energy for me as an employee. So, please take this seriously—it really works!”
6- Mohammad A’laei Zadeh, a Co-Founder, writes about Employee Appreciation Day: “Our familiarity with giving and receiving gifts dates back to childhood, experienced in friendships and family relationships. We probably have fond (and maybe some not-so-fond) memories of exchanging gifts. But what if the exchange is based on our position within an organization?”
Here, the gift might be perceived as a bribe, so it’s important to distinguish between a bribe and a gift. A simple criterion for this is whether, after giving the gift, the recipient is expected to take a step that contradicts ethical standards or benefits us unfairly.”
7- Finally, Art Yar, a reputable dealer of authentic art pieces in the country, states: “Organizational gift-giving should serve the benefit of human resources. Spending on the most expensive gifts doesn’t necessarily make employees happy. Therefore, purchasing artworks as organizational gifts is a solution that helps enhance your human capital while also promoting culture and art within your organizational culture.”