Selecting a gift for someone that you do business with, whether it is a boss, co-worker, or client can be tricky business over the holidays. When choosing a corporate gift this year there are many things to keep in mind to help you make sure youre using proper gift-giving etiquette.

One of the first things that you should do before you choose a gift is to check the corporate policy. Many companies have a no-gift policy and giving a gift under these circumstances may result in trouble for the recipient. Even a gift given with the best intentions can be a problem if that gift violates the corporate policy. The best way to find out if gift giving is allowed is to contact the Personnel Department of the company in question for their guidelines. They will be able to tell you if your gift is allowed and appropriate.

Gift giving should be done only when you are currently doing business with the organization that you want to gift. Make sure that you do not give gifts to organizations that you are negotiating with. These well-meaning gifts may be misconstrued as a bribe and it would be inappropriate to give a gift in this situation.

Great people to give gifts to this season are long-term clients. These are the clients who pay their bills, and have stuck with you over a period of time. Examples of these people would be sub-contractors that you regularly work with, your postal carrier, your accountant, or lawyer, as well as any other professionals that you rely on to run your business in the day to day. These are the people who often go un-thanked and therefore, the holidays are an excellent time to remember those who help you conduct your business.

If you are looking to give a gift to several people within a company and want to forgo individual gift giving, as it may seem too personal, consider sending a gift that can be shared. These types of gifts include gourmet food baskets, or other types of gifts that include non-perishable goodies. Be sure to avoid items that require preparation, are perishable, or contain alcohol.

A great tip for corporate gift giving is to tailor the gift to the person who will be receiving it. If you are giving a gift to an individual, try to find something that reflects the persons hobbies or interests, if they are known. Be sure to not get something that would be too personal or embarrassing, especially if you are giving a gift to someone of the opposite gender.

Whenever possible, try to deliver your gift personally. If this is not possible, include a brief, personalized, hand-written note. This will add an additional element of generosity as well as let your recipient know how much you care. In a world where everything is shipped, it is nice to receive a gift that is hand delivered.

If you choose to ad your logo to a gift, be sure to keep it small and discreet so that the gift doesnt appear to be an advertisement. Also, never put a logo on an item that you intend to be a personal gift.

Items that are commonly given, but rarely appreciated are necessity items such as mouse pads and mugs. Giving these items may make you look insensitive and are extremely impersonal. Instead consider a calendar with motivational sayings, or a beautifully potted plant, if you are looking for something for their office. Try to add a personal touch to show you care to any item you give.

Setting a budget is very important when purchasing business gifts. Spending too little or too much can create uncomfortable situations where the recipient either feels you are being cheap, or is uncomfortable with your extravagance. Make sure you know your recipient and choose the appropriate gift.

Make sure your holiday gift giving goes smoothly this year when selecting your business gifts. Keep in mind these guidelines and you are sure to choose a gift your recipient will truly appreciate.