Show the salesperson in your life, whether an employee or someone you do business with on a regular basis, that you appreciate what they do for you all year long. The gift is not as important as the sentiment of appreciation behind it. Here are some ideas that will pay dividends throughout the year:

~ Gift basket with a personal touch: Chicken Soup for the Soul has come out with a line of books that make a perfect accompaniment for a gift basket: one for the chocolate lover's soul, coffee lover's soul, tea lover's soul, and wine lover's soul. All you have to do is pick the one that suits the "taste" of the person you are buying for and you have a complete gift. Personalize the inside front cover of the book by writing a personal "thank you" and the date.

~ Clock/calendar set: These make an excellent gift because they are something we all use everyday. They can be presented with a note that reads, "Thanks for finding the time to make our business grow!" These sets can be formal with engraved initials on the desk clock or it can be a lighthearted gift. If you now the particular interests of the salesperson, try to find a funny clock or calendar and give the gift of laughter (make sure it is tasteful!).

~ Restaurant gift certificates: Find out what the salesperson's favorite restaurant is and give the certificate with a personal note: "Thanks for taking care of us all year long; now enjoy a night out on the town on us!" Never just give a gift certificate without a personal note attached.

~ Basket of shiny apples: This is a twist on the traditional fruit basket. You can buy them through a catalogue company with an array of different apples or put your own selection together. Pick a silver-plated container and have it engraved to serve as a momento, fill it with shiny apples, decorate with ribbon, and write a personalized note: "Thanks for being the polished salesperson that you are!" Never give a gift without personalizing the sentiment.

~ Personalized planner and business card set: These often come together and are less expensive when bought as a set. You can personalize it by having their initials engraved or personalize the card to express your gift of sincere appreciation.

~ Name a star: If the salesperson did an outstanding job, over and above the call of duty, why not express your gratitude by naming a star in their honor and present it at a special Christmas luncheon. You can begin the process by visiting the National Registry at: www.starregistry.com. I guarantee that this gift will be sure to please and will never be forgotten. The sentiment in the card can read: "A world of thanks that extends beyond the universe."

~ A gift to the salesperson's favorite charity in their name. This is becoming more and more popular as others are becoming more philanthropic in their mentality, whether it's a gift to the American Cancer Society, Little League, or Boys and Girls Clubs of America, find out where their interests lie and give the gift that keeps on giving!

The key to gift giving is knowing the person you are buying for and their specific interests. Regardless of the gift you choose, the time you took to write a personalized "thank you" will be the best gift of all. Have fun and enjoy this special season!

Learn more about this author, C. Kay Rowley.
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