Wow! – The winter holiday season is upon us already. With everyone’s busy schedule and increased activities, there never seems like there is enough time to get it all done.
Traditionally, this is the time of year when many business owners and professionals put on their to-do list purchasing a gift for their customers and clients as an appreciation of their business or patronage.
Do you give gifts to your referral sources?
Over the years, we have worked with companies that give everything from small items with a logo to grand dinners to specialty food baskets. But a holiday gift does not have to be expensive, and in some markets, it is not appropriate to send anything too lavish. However, even a simple holiday greeting with a sincere thank you shows your referral source how much he or she is valued.
If you are planning on sending a gift, here are some ideas to consider:
• Package six coffee mugs with your logo, two pounds of coffee, and a box of shortbread cookies – great for an office group.
• Support a local business by purchasing a favorite specialty like BBQ sauce, chocolates, nuts, or other treat. Send with a handwritten note with best wishes for the coming year.
• Make a donation to a local charity on behalf of your referral sources; send a card with holiday wishes and notification of the donation.
• Produce a calendar with images of your successful patients (or obtain photos from manufacturers). The calendar will be hung at nurses’ stations and PT gait training areas year-round. You can have extras at your reception desk for patients.
• Fill a candy jar embossed with your logo. This also is an opportunity for you to provide refills throughout the year.
• Send a personal hand-written note to a physician wishing them the best for 2010 at no cost but your time.
While the current economy may make it tempting to not do anything for your referral sources, holiday gifting is a way to say thank you for the people who help your business grow.
Merry Christmas, happy holidays, and may the New Year be a great one for you!
Make your day matter!
Patty Johnson
P.S. – Patients like to be appreciated too. Create a festive office atmosphere with warm cider and cookies. Ask patients to register to win local movie passes or dinner gift certificates.
