My husband wanted to gift a female client an item to show his gratitude since she is one of our biggest clients. I said it’s inappropriate to gift the wife and leave out the husband who happens to be the CEO. We’ve only had contact with her and never met him or spoke with him but I still think it’s odd to not include him especially if we want to keep them as clients. I was thinking of an item they can both use. What are your thoughts?
seedy history
In my business dealings, I have often given a gift to someone I do business with. I have never included the CEO of the company or a spouse of my client unless I have also been, personally, doing business with them as well. Be professional, not invasive of your client's personal life. Do not treat this woman as a "wife" or "female". Treat her as a valued business professional.
Andrew Smith
To gift a person, who is a client, has all the hallmarks of bribery. Someone gains a personal kickback for their decisions on the part of the company. Yes I know "bribery works" but it plunges us all into a third world country. Keep it professional, not personal.
linkus86
Your husband is correct. Your business relationship with this client begins and ends with the point person (the wife). If a gift is offered, it should be to her and her alone. To gift both spouses would take away from the gratitude specifically meant for her, not someone you have never met.
Anonymous
Gift to them both.. and a very nice dinner reservation, with all the bells and whistles would be my suggestion. That way they both can enjoy the meal.
drip
If she is the only one you have contract with then give the gift to her. There is no reason to give a gift to her husband. You have not met him nor are you in contact with him.
Give a nice impersonal gift to her.
Order a basket from Harry and David.