7 Common Mistakes When Choosing Gifts and How to Avoid

Gifts have long become an “invisible bridge” in relationships, especially in business and corporate life. However, many people have found themselves in awkward situations simply because of an unrefined gift choice. An inappropriate gift not only fails to create a positive impression but can also backfire. To avoid such unfortunate mistakes, let’s explore with Tracy Gifts the 7 common mistakes when choosing gifts and how to avoid them, helping you always leave a confident impression in any situation.

1. Choosing overly common gifts

One of the most frequent mistakes is choosing gifts that “anyone can buy.” Paper calendars, cheap logo-printed mugs, or plastic keychains often make gifts boring and unimpressive.

How to avoid: Prioritize unique items, custom designs, or limited editions. A premium Tet gift box or an elegant office accessory set will make a clear difference.

2. Not suitable for the recipient

Giving a female boss a fruit knife, or a VIP client a logo-printed raincoat – these will surely leave an unpleasant impression.

How to avoid: Before choosing gifts, categorize recipients (VIP partners, long-term clients, employees, colleagues, friends) to select the right product for each group.

3. Ignoring feng shui factors

In Asian culture, feng shui plays an important role. A gift that clashes with the recipient’s element may unintentionally cause discomfort.

How to avoid: If giving feng shui gifts, research the recipient’s zodiac and element. For example: agarwood bracelets suit those with the Wood element, while yellow or brown gemstones are more suitable for those with the Earth element.

4. Careless packaging

Even if valuable, a gift will lose its elegance if poorly wrapped. Many people wrap hastily, making the recipient feel underappreciated.

How to avoid: Invest in premium gift box designs, use luxurious wrapping paper, and combine red – gold – black for a sense of power and good fortune.

5. Overemphasis on monetary value

Some believe that the more expensive the gift, the greater the respect it shows. In reality, what matters is not material value, but meaning.

How to avoid: Choose symbolic gifts with a clear message. For instance: a pen engraved with the partner’s name may carry more meaning than an expensive bottle of imported liquor.

6. No accompanying message

Giving a gift without a message or handwritten card makes it feel “soulless.”

How to avoid: Always include a few sincere words. Just 2–3 short sentences are enough to make a mark. For example: “Wishing you a prosperous grand opening and smooth success in all endeavors.”

7. Rushed and unprepared gifting

Many only think of gifts when the event is near, leading to hurried, careless purchases. As a result, gifts turn out not only unrefined but also more costly.

How to avoid: Plan your gifting early. Businesses can create a yearly gifting calendar (Tet, client birthdays, partnership anniversaries) to stay proactive and save costs.

Tips for office workers & sales

• Always keep a “standard gift list” for each recipient group.
• Prepare a few elegant gift boxes in the office – for unexpected occasions.
• For salespeople, skillful gifting can become the “key” to closing deals.

Gifting is an art, and this art requires refinement. By avoiding the 7 common mistakes in gift selection, you will always leave a lasting, positive impression on partners, clients, and colleagues.

At TracyGifts.vn, we provide premium gift solutions with refined, personalized designs, helping you not only avoid common mistakes but also elevate the value of every gift into a lasting memory.