iPod the Perfect Gift.
iPod the Perfect Gift. Finding the perfect gift for anyone can be challenging, but when that special someone is a personal assistant, secretary or other administrative personnel, the task can seem particularly difficult. You may know that person well enough that you can confidently choose a gift that otherwise might be considered a personal choice, but in many circumstances you may not feel confident enough to do that.
Recently a well-known marketer gifted an assistant with a puppy. Not just any puppy, but an expensive purebred from a well-known breeder. The marketer knew this was exactly the breed his assistant wanted, and also knew she couldn't afford the four-figure price. She was so pleased, she named the puppy after him. This is an example of buying something that most people would prefer to purchase themselves. In this case, it worked because he knew her exact wishes and also her financial limitations, which made it the perfect gift.
In the situation where you don't have clear clues, you have to use your 5 senses. Does the assistant have a favorite color? What does she keep on her desk? Does s/he wear jewelry? Often you can think of a gift by noticing what is NOT there. If s/he doesn't wear jewelry, maybe you can find something that would look perfect with that v-neck jersey, or a watch that would go with almost everything.
Does s/he wear cologne or perfume? Maybe an essential oil diffuser for car, home or office and a selection of essential oils would be welcome by someone who appreciates the power of scent.
A tactile person might wear clothing with a lot of texture, have a stuffed animal collection, decorate with fabrics, or appreciate artwork with depth and dimension.
Does the assistant have an iPod? What does s/he listen to - music? inspirational, motivational, self-improvement or instructional material? A gift of an iPod or a subscription to an MP3 download service might be just what s/he needs.
Last but not least, is the assistant a chocoholic? Does s/he love beef jerky, Greek food, or natural food, or is s/he dieting? A gift basket can be lovely to look at with the addition of flowers, but can also contain food, cookbooks, picnic supplies for 2, glassware or dishes, cookware, wine, herb vinegars, spices...a food theme has so many opportunities and possibilities.
Maybe you don't think you know your assistant well enough to choose a gift, but remembering to use your five senses will help you become a pro at gift selection. Of course, there's always that fifth sense, intuition, to guide you as well.