One standout method? Corporate gifting for recruitment. Thoughtful, personalized gifting can help you connect with candidates, win big contracts, and maintain lasting relationships.
At Reachdesk, we’ve experienced firsthand how corporate gifting can scale recruitment efforts. In the past few years, we’ve seen rapid growth and used gifting as a key strategy throughout the recruitment lifecycle to attract top talent, engage candidates, and nurture long-term relationships.
In this blog, we’ll explore five proven strategies that have worked for us (and many others) to effectively use corporate gifting in your recruitment efforts.
1. Personalization to attract top talent
Why do candidates choose certain opportunities over others? Often, it’s about feeling valued and understood. In fact, 66% of candidates report that a positive candidate experience increases their likelihood of referring others. A personalized gift can do wonders in demonstrating your company’s commitment to potential hires.
High-caliber, senior-level talent at the top of their game are constantly bombarded with opportunities. Don’t let your outreach get lost in the shuffle of generic emails or inMails. Instead, take the time to truly learn about them—just as you would with a potential client—and leverage corporate gifting for recruitment to break through the noise.
For example, if you’re reaching out to a creative professional, consider sending a high-quality sketchbook accompanied by a personalized note: “Your next masterpiece deserves a stage—let’s build it together!” Thoughtful gestures like these show you’ve done your homework and leave a lasting impression that sets you apart.
Tailoring gifts to candidates’ interests or achievements shows you’ve done your homework, making you stand out as a recruiter who genuinely cares.
2. Win recruitment contracts with standout gifting
For agency recruiters, landing a lucrative client contract can make all the difference. In a crowded market, a thoughtful gift can set you apart as a forward-thinking partner.
Sending a Corporate Gift Guide for Recruiters branded with the client’s logo, along with a tailored proposal, is a great way to demonstrate your innovative approach. Include examples of how you use technology, like Reachdesk, to source top talent.
Pair your proposal with something fun, like a gourmet snack box or a personalized coffee tumbler, to leave a lasting impression. Clients will see you as not just a recruiter, but a strategic partner committed to delivering results.
Wondering what you can send?
Here are the Best Corporate Gifting Ideas for Q1 2025..
3. Use gifting to boost candidate engagement
Virtual hiring is the new norm, but it comes with its own challenges—Zoom fatigue, no-shows, and disengagement. A small gesture can go a long way in turning things around.
One effective tactic? Offer candidates a coffee voucher before an interview with a note like, “Let’s chat over coffee, even if it’s virtual!” It’s a great way to replicate the atmosphere of an in-person meeting.
Similarly, if candidates are completing a task as part of your process, consider sending them a gift card with a fun note like, “Fuel your creativity while you tackle this challenge!” Thoughtful gifting not only boosts engagement but also leaves candidates with a positive impression of your company.
4. Nurture relationships for future success
Not every candidate will join your company right away, and not every client will sign a contract immediately. But those relationships still matter.
Keep your company top of mind by sending thoughtful gifts to nurture those connections. For example, send a small celebratory gift, like a personalized batch of cookies, when a candidate lands a new role elsewhere with a note like, “Congrats on your next adventure—keep us in mind for the future!”
For clients, a seasonal check-in gift—like a holiday-themed snack box or a summer-themed kit—can be a great way to maintain goodwill and keep the relationship warm.
5. Celebrate new hires with a welcome gift
The recruitment journey doesn’t end when a candidate accepts your offer—in fact, it’s just the beginning of building a strong, lasting relationship. A thoughtful, celebratory gift can make their first day memorable and set the tone for their experience at your company.
Welcome packages are a great way to show appreciation and make new hires feel valued right from the start. Include a mix of personalized and practical items, such as:
- A bottle of their favorite drink with a note like, “Here’s to new beginnings—welcome to the team!”
- Branded swag like high-quality notebooks, tumblers, or apparel to create a sense of belonging.
- A handwritten note from the team to add a personal touch.
This small gesture not only leaves a lasting impression but also reinforces the message that your company cares about its people and is committed to making them feel at home.
6. Incorporate a recruitment-specific gift guide
To make your gifting strategy more effective, create a Corporate Gift Guide for Recruiters tailored to your goals. This guide can include ideas for:
- Personalized gifts to attract candidates.
- Branded items to impress potential clients.
- Seasonal gifting options for nurturing long-term relationships.
By having a go-to resource, you can streamline your gifting process and ensure your approach is aligned with your recruitment goals.
Learn the art of employee gifting with The employee gifting playbook.
Hire and retain top talent with a recruitment experience—and thoughtful gifts—your candidates will love!
Corporate gifting for recruitment is more than a trend—it’s a powerful tool for connecting with candidates, winning contracts, and maintaining strong relationships. Whether you’re looking to attract top talent, improve candidate engagement, or nurture long-term relationships, gifting can help you stand out against other recruiters.
Ready to take your recruitment strategy to a new level? Book a demo to explore Reachdesk’s corporate gifting and swag solutions to build stronger connections and achieve your hiring goals with ease!
