Question

Topic: Customer Behavior

Thank You Gifts For Case Study Interviewees

Posted by Anonymous on 7/13/2010 at 8:39 AM ET 125 Points
We're doing a bunch (~30) case studies where we're interviewing senior executives from client companies about our engagements with them. We don't have ongoing relationships with many of these companies, so it's not as though it's an easy favor to ask.

Are there suggestions for simple ways to say thank you in the $50-100 range that would leave a good impression with executives (golf balls? gift certificates?)
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RESPONSES

  • Posted by michael on 7/13/2010 at 10:42 AM Member
    10 lbs of chocolate goes a long way....
    https://www.onlythebestgifts.com/products/Guittard-Classic-10-Lb-Chocolate-...

    Michael
  • Posted by mgoodman on 7/13/2010 at 1:44 PM Accepted
    If you are interviewing these executives because of their company roles, then a gift may not be appropriate. What they're doing is part of their job, not a personal favor.

    Perhaps you can make a donation to a favorite charity, or let them pick one from a short list you prepare in advance.

    A few years ago I had a project in which I had to interview several dozen senior executives, and a formal thank-you note was sufficient ... and probably more comfortable for them.

    If you give them a gift, there's an issue with whether it's taxable income, or whether there are company policies about accepting gifts when you are really representing the company.

    I know I'd be uncomfortable accepting a gift in a situation like that.
  • Posted by SRyan ;] on 7/13/2010 at 11:44 PM Member
    Go with Amazon gift certificates! They can buy just about ANYTHING there now.
  • Posted by Jay Hamilton-Roth on 7/14/2010 at 12:54 AM Member
    I'm with Mr. Goodman. A handwritten thank you and public thanks in the case study itself would be appropriate. A donation in their name to a local charity (school or shelter) would be a nice gesture as well.
  • Posted on 7/17/2010 at 3:41 AM Member
    I agree with all of the above. A thank you card and public acknowledgment of their participation is good enough.

    If you want a tangible gift, Gift Certificates are always welcomed by anybody.
  • Posted on 7/26/2010 at 10:31 AM Member
    Amazon Gift card and certificates would be the best thank you for them.
    As by recieving thank you cards, they can satisfy more and also further use these cards as a gift for their children.
  • Posted on 7/26/2010 at 11:22 AM Author
    Hi All,

    thanks for the responses. I had forgotten about company policies (and how varied they are) about receiving gifts from vendors. The donation in their name is a great idea.


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