Want to make yourself “unforgettable” to your clients and associates? Try this novel idea…give a book!
One great benefit of giving a book is that it won’t get thrown away. Even if it doesn’t immediately get read, a book certainly won’t get pitched in the trash. Be honest. Like most people, you probably have a stack of books somewhere in your home or office that have not yet been read, but there they sit, patiently awaiting a quiet, relaxing hour of your time.
Books are also flattering to the recipient as an “intellectual” gift. Even if your recipient isn’t a big reader, they will be flattered that you thought that they might be! And many people even claim that a house is not a home without a few good books at hand.
Books are cost-effective. Most great books are available for well under $20, and many are even less than $10. You can save yourself even more money – and time – by purchasing several copies of a favorite book to have on-hand, or ordering multiple copies online or through your local bookstore. Book aficionados might even enjoy a trip to browse through the aisles of the local bookstore, but if a fast search and online ordering is more your speed, try www.amazon.com.
Books are also perfect for the whole family. Most parents would agree that the best way to win their hearts is to be thoughtful of their children. Especially if the family is going through a major change such as moving to a new home, don’t forget about the kids.
Books can be easily personalized. A simple handwritten inscription inside the front cover of the book such as, “Very best wishes to you in your new home!” or “This is a great read – hope you enjoy it as much as I did!” followed by your signature really makes the book something personal and special.
And speaking of being personalized, if you really want to do something special, select a book on a specific topic you know they will like. If they’re into remodeling or just purchased a “fixer-upper,” a how-to book would be perfect. If they’ve recently retired and are ready to hit the road to explore and travel, find a book about ways to plan terrific vacations. Your selection will show how much you care, in a far deeper way than, say, a fruit basket ever could.
Amazon’s website has an excellent search feature. Simply enter key words such as “new home,” “gardening,” or “road trips” and you will be quickly directed to a great selection of books to browse. You can now even “thumb through” the book online, viewing the front and back covers, table of contents and an excerpt from the book, as well as reviews.
One great idea is to purchase regional books that showcase what might be little-known facts and history of your city or state, secret spots for a day trip, pictures of “then and now.” For the young and the young-at-heart alike, try Shel Silverstein’s The Giving Tree or Dr. Suess’s Oh, The Places You’ll Go! Simple and understandable, these books are moving, meaningful, and memorable. And for anyone and everyone on your list, George Clason’s The Richest Man in Babylon is a home run. It is a quick, easy parable about wealth-building principles, one of the best-selling books of all time.
If there are some books you think I should add to my list, please don’t hesitate to give me a call.
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