Putting your logo on cheap swag and calling it a “gift” is a bit counter-productive.
We recently heard of a seasoned employee who received a cheap company-branded pin for her 10th anniversary gift. She shared the story on her Instagram page with her feelings about receiving such a thoughtless gift.
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How do you think her friends and followers will now feel about the company she works for?
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Would you want to work for this company if this is how they show appreciation for 10 years of commitment?
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Does this gift feel like the end goal was well thought out, or simply an afterthought?
Let’s be honest—if you’re approaching your team’s appreciation gifts like another box to check on a to-do list, it’s time to rethink your whole strategy.
Because here’s the truth: A thoughtful gift isn’t just a gift. It’s a chance to say, “We see you, we value you, and hey, you deserve something great.” Not a sad logo-slapped stress ball destined for the landfill, or a cheap plastic pen that will get lost in the junk drawer.
If you understand the value of sending a gift - why make your gift a crappy one? The woman we mentioned earlier said that the cheapness of the gift itself was more of an insult than receiving nothing at all. So why invest your resources in a gift at all if it’s not meaningful?
Give Thoughtfully. Not Thoughtlessly.
When you slap your brand on something flimsy and forgettable, your message doesn’t land. In fact, it actually backfires. When you put your logo on a gift, it’s directly communicating the values that your brand upholds. It’s a non-verbal way of saying “this is what we care about.” If you say your company values quality, how can you justify giving gifts that don’t match the same standard of quality?
Instead of dedicating funds to gifts that get tossed, think of gifting as part of your company’s larger brand experience. Just like you invest in great marketing, solid tech, or good coffee at the office (you do that too, right?)—remarkable gifting is an investment in your people. And when it’s done right, it boosts morale, strengthens culture, and leaves a lasting impression.
What Actually Works in a Good Corporate Gifting Strategy?
1. Match the moment to your company culture.
Does your team value creativity? Go for gifts that inspire imagination and expression. Big on community? Choose gifts that bring people together. A virtual-first crew? Think remote-friendly self-care gifts or productivity boosters. These gifts will show them that you not only value their interests, but you care that they will get use out of what they will receive. Now that is thoughtfulness.
2. Add a human element.
A little personalization goes a long way. Custom gift boxes designed specifically for the occasion. A handwritten note inside the gift box. It doesn’t take much to show that the company gift wasn’t just pulled from a dusty shelf, but it does take a second to think, "what will make this a little extra special?” The additional step transforms a regular gift into a special moment.
3. Make it something useful.
Let’s stop pretending that another branded pen will spark joy. Choose items that get used repeatedly and loved for the long haul. Think elevated clothing items or jackets, high-quality travel gear for your jet-setters, or sustainable bags that become daily staples. A gift that gets used = a gift that reminds them every day about how much they’re valued.
4. Take an opportunity to surprise (and delight).
Not every gift needs to wait for the holidays. Give gifts to celebrate a random Tuesday. Recognize small wins, like your team getting through a tough week. Send unexpected gifts after a big client pitch, or because it’s National Pancake Day. Give gifts just because you’re feeling generous. Surprise gifts say, “I’m always thinking of you, and I want to show that I appreciate all that you do every day of the year.”
5. Create share-worthy moments.
Great gifts have ripple effects. When your team receives something truly thoughtful and cool, they share it—on social media, in group chats, or during Zoom calls. On the flip side, they might also share a crappy gift through those outlets too! Which result would you rather have? A share about how appreciated and excited they feel - or how underwhelmed and slighted they feel after receiving your gift? Make the gifting experience a positive one, and these little acts of joy will broadcast your company culture organically. It’s brand marketing, morale-building, and memorable, all at the same time.
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At Clove & Twine, we don’t do "meh" swag. We craft and curate gifts that are truly intentional, and make people feel seen, known, and excited to be part of your company. And because sustainability is baked into everything we do, you’ll know your gifts are as responsible as they are remarkable.
The best part? We’ll handle the logistics from start to finish—so you can focus on all the celebrating.
Ready to give gifts people will actually keep? Let’s make it happen.
