There is no secret to the change in the work environment over the past few decades. The work force has quickly transformed from a male dominated setting to a combination of male and female counterparts that share the same titles, roles, positions and class. This remarkable transition has evolved into a new outlook in business relationships and how we exchange corporate gifts. The ancient run-of-the-mill pocket flasks and cigar cutters have moved aside to pave the way for more family friendly corporate gifts.

In this new era of business, employers and business developers are encouraged to think outside of the box when it comes to the corporate gift incentive. With employees and clients of a two parent working home and in some cases single family homes, it is a good idea to include the family when pondering ideas for gifting, There could be awesome rewards when taking this approach. Let's take a look at a few benefits:

• Reduce turnover rates. This is no guarantee, but recognizing your employee's and client's family could result in long lasting work relationships. In fact, studies show that family oriented companies (those who put family first instead of dollars) have the lowest number of employee turnovers. A small incentive can save a boat load of money with loyalty you may gain in your business relationships.
• Promotes family activities. Let's face it, as an employer or partner it is not your job to purposely promote family activities unless you're a family therapist. However, gifts that include the family plant seeds in being recognized as a thoughtful institution and aids in developing lasting relationships; not only by you, but by the recipient's family. The entire family will feel appreciated with notable alms.
• Give mental breaks not mental breakdowns. Any break from the job in any form is good medicine in business. A unique corporate gift that takes the recipient and family away from the daily grind will be a memorable keepsake that your company has aided in a mental escape with a unique gift. You will always be hated for a mental break down, but you can gain years of appreciation from the entire family for giving a mental break.

It would be bad practice to give the recipient a family gift if he has no family. Be sure to know a little about your potential client or loyal employee before offering something for a family.

Here are some good ideas for family corporate gifts:

• Picnic Baskets. Picnic baskets are fun and the entire family would most likely enjoy a weekend of ball catching and even kite flying over a lovely picnic. This gift would promote family activities which is a great incentive for your business.

• Barbecue Totes. If you are pondering what to get a male client and his family…what about something for the grill? Barbecue totes come complete with the latest queuing equipment and some even come with aprons. These totes are available as corporate gifts in that there is room to advertise your company image on the tote itself. What a great way to encourage family gatherings.

• Beach Totes. Give your employees a relaxing day at the beach. Snuggle beach towels or mats, inflatable beach balls, sunscreen lotion and even swim goggles in a tote complete with your company name.

• Entertainment tickets. Treat the entire family to Disney on Ice or even a Broadway play. The entire family is sure to be pleased.

You may not use any of these ideas, but I'm sure they've got you thinking. When was the last time you received a family gift? If your answer is never, then start a new trend of family gift giving in your corporate incentive program. The rewards may be plenty.

Visit Corporate Snobs for the solution for all your gift giving needs.