We usually send business gifts to associates and clients to thank, congratulate, or encourage them in the work. The types of gifts we give out are usually generic ones—call it safe, if you will. When dealing with professional associates, the last thing you want to do is offend them with your business gifts.

There are no be-all and end-all tips in giving business gifts. Many times, we're simply guided by common sense and practicality. Here is some advice that will be helpful the next time you send out those business gifts:

1. Find out whether your recipient has a no-gift policy or if there is a limit to the value of business gifts they are allowed to receive. It will be awkward if, in the end, they will return your present. You don't want to make that faux pas, so try to find out. The best person to ask is the company receptionist or somebody from the human resources office. Knowing this will spare you the embarrassment of delivering business gifts that will only be sent back and will guide you in the future.

2. A little sleuthing is needed, but find out from previous experiences whether the company would prefer that you give a donation to charity in their name instead of sending business gifts. This will endear you further to them.

3. Try to find out a little more about your clients or the people to whom you'll be sending business gifts. Be alert to details during personal conversations. Find out about religious, dietary, or health restrictions or personal preferences. For example, you want to make sure you're sending eggless cookies to a vegan and that the bottle of Chardonnay does not go to the teetotaler. You also don't want to bear the blame if you happen to send peanut cookies to someone who is allergic to nuts.

4. Include a personal note along with the business gifts you'll be sending out so your recipients will know it wasn't just your secretary who did the gift list. You want to make them feel special, that they're worth your time.

5. Find unique, special business gifts that will remind your recipients of your company's gesture. These gifts are meant to impress, so as you would in a date, put your best foot forward.

6. Find quality gifts that last for a long time. Don't give cheap, shoddy business gifts. You don't want to send a negative message to your recipients. Surely you don't want your presents ending up in the trash, recycled, or given away to the cleaning staff?

7. Consider the timing of your gift. If you're sending business gifts before a contract is signed between you and a company, it might be misconstrued as bribery. If you have to say thank-you, do so when everything has been settled, not when a project is still pending between two parties.

8. Deliver your business gifts in person if possible. Taking the time to do such a chore will impress your clients.

In the giving of business gifts, remember the hard-and-fast Golden Rule: "Do unto others what you want others to do unto you."