The holiday season and all that it entails is just around the corner. However, this season brings more than just food, gifts, and (in particular places) snow. It is a time that professionals around the world begin to think about how they will handle client-given gifts.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a black and white answer for all professionals to follow. Instead, gifts should be considered on a case-by-case basis. Using factors such as the professional’s occupation, as well as client factors, it can be somewhat easier analyzing whether a gift is appropriate or not.

This process can be tricky, as some clients might feel offended or rejected when their gift isn’t accepted. Therefore professionals have to learn how to decline a gift gracefully to avoid harming the relationship. One good tactic of gracefully declining is explaining the ethical reasoning for why you are unable to accept the gift. This should help the client understand that the decline wasn’t personal. If done correctly, the results could go from potentially upsetting the client to ensuring them they have a considerate and ethical professional on their side.

Some may consider implementing a gift policy that all clients see upon entering the office or building. However, there could be some customers/clients who may feel that the policy doesn’t apply to them based on the relationship they thought they’ve built, putting the professional in a situation they were hoping to avoid. At this point, insulting the client should be avoided, but caution must be used before accepting any gifts.

When deciding whether to accept a gift, there are some factors to examine. The nature of the client business is a huge factor. For example, a lawyer who is representing a new client in a big case might want to decline a gift of money in June, whereas it would probably be okay to accept a phone case during the holidays from a longtime client who is a phone case manufacturer. Other factors to consider include the time of year and the relative income of the client.

The number one rule is to never solicit; never suggest, hint, or request gifts from clients. Once a gift is received, document it. This could be something as small as a thank you note. After writing and before sending, make a copy of the card for your records. It may also be a good idea to share the information with someone of authority, so that if there is ever an issue, you have proof that the gift was unsolicited, and you have another professional who can back that up.

Follow one question when considering whether to accept a gift or decline:

Will receiving the client’s present change my relationship with the client or create any sense of obligation?

Determining whether to accept a gift may never be a simple and easy answer; however, following the tips discussed above, the chances for ethical consequences will be significantly reduced.