Garza Protocol Associates: Newsletter

U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act: In general, the FCPA prohibits corrupt payments to foreign officials for the purpose of obtaining or keeping business. In addition, other statutes such as the mail and wire fraud statutes, 18 U.S.C. § 1341, 1343, and the Travel Act, 18 U.S.C. § 1952, which provides for federal prosecution of violations of state commercial bribery statutes, may also apply to such conduct.

Greetings!

In many parts of the world people are celebrating or preparing for the holidays: Divali, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas and the New Year. For many companies it is the time of corporate gift-giving. In this issue I'd like to share a few guidelines and ideas for global gift-giving. Companies often spend thousands of dollars on gifts without much thought as to the who, what and why. With some thought and a little research your company's investment can result in a memorable and positive token of appreciation.

Like in most things there are rules and regulations so check with the legal or human resource department for company guidelines. Embassies and consulates can also give some guidance and the U.S. & Foreign Commercial Service can provide some tips as well. City, state and federal governments have their own rules on what government officials can accept so check first. Customs and traditions vary by country and culture; there are dos and taboos that can impact how your gift is perceived. For more information on country-specific ideas for China, Japan, Europe, India, Mexico, or Saudi Arabia just send me an e-mail specifying which country to executivediplomat@garzaprotocol.com.

Thanks for your continued support by sending the newsletter to your friends and colleagues. During this holiday season I wish you peace and goodness.

Sonia Garza-Monarchi

Principal, Garza Protocol Associates, LLC

832.692.4842

sgm@garzaprotocol.com

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7 Strategies for Global Gift-Giving

It's the thought that counts so give it some thought. Select memorable gifts that represent your company and values. If using a company logo, do so discreetly. Buy only from reputable vendors. Check with colleagues, the Better Business Bureau, chamber of commerce or a concierge for recommendations.
Remember your objective is to continue building a professional relationship, thank a client, supplier, vendor or employee and extend goodwill.
Know the policies of the donor and recipient as well as any applicable laws. Is gift-giving allowed and what is the monetary cap? Contact a company or government office's legal department for specific rules, adhere to the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and specific country laws. Not accepting gifts could insult the donor, resulting in loss of face which could affect your business relationship. If your company does not allow you to personally accept gifts, consider accepting gifts on behalf of the company. Gifts could then be displayed for the enjoyment of all.
Gift selection: consider the recipient's rank, as well as the item's quality, size, symbolic value, price, function vs. decorative; gender neutral, fragility, weight, shipping and packaging costs. Be creative and if appropriate customize the gift to reflect the recipient's personal preferences or have the item engraved or monogrammed. Beware of symbols, colors, and numbers that may have negative or political connotations.
Sign and personalize the enclosure card. If using a business card handwrite a brief message such as "Happy Holidays" and sign.
Wrap it up-pay attention to packaging and presentation which can be as important as the gift in some countries.
- Wrap gifts simply; use good quality paper (preferably recycled) with double-sided tape.
- The colors of a country's flag are usually considered positive and typically are a good choice for wrapping paper. Avoid black or white paper which is often associated with death.
- Gift bags with discreet company logo or seals are fine.
- Presentation boxes that do not require wrapping paper are a nice alternative.
- Avoid bows, use ribbons or a seal.
- Check for place of origin labels and remove if needed.

Keep a gift log of items given and received and include:
- Recipient's name, title and affiliation
- Description of item
- Cost or estimated value (may need for financial disclosure statement)
- Vendor
- Giver/donor's name, title and affiliation
- Occasion and date presented or received
- Check gift log on subsequent visits to avoid giving the same item
- Note country or cultural customs
- Comment section: favorite color or food, other preferences, hobbies, family, and gift ideas (bios are useful sources.)

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International Gift Ideas: Gaffes & Glories

International Gift Ideas: The Glories

Unique gifts or items not easily obtainable in that country. Items indigenous to or representative of your city, state, region or country

From the U.S.:

NASA gifts
Native American pottery and jewelry
Items from Colonial Williamsburg
American West, cowboy hats, boots, belts, crystal hat on base
Arts & crafts: pottery and quilts
Items with cultural or historical significance, etched distinctive city skylines
Pewter items
Steuben glass
Food items: chocolate seals, gourmet food baskets, fruits, cakes, pastries and other sweets, selection of coffee or tea, liquor and wine-for non-Muslims (make sure item can survive shipping and consider possible food allergies)

Home, Desk or Travel Accessories

Pens (fountain pens are more popular internationally), pencils or pen and pencil sets (personalized), paperweights, pencil holders, bookends, customized calendars and agendas (stationery in Europe is different size)
Coffee table books
Vases, crystals, china, glassware, mugs and coasters
Latest electronic gadgets and toys
Digital picture frames and key rings
Computer accessories: games and software, flash drives, computer bags
Picture frames (engraved) or photo albums (include appropriate photo if available)
Business card holders (some cards are larger than in U.S. so check size)
Travel wallets/organizers, frames, catchalls, luggage tags, or umbrellas
Passport covers (make sure country size appropriate)
Boxed sets of assorted holiday gift wrapping

Personal: gifts that reflect the individual's interests

Sports equipment and paraphernalia (autographed)
University items (university of interest)
Ties and scarves made by local artists or depicting famous local scenes
The latest DVD or CD of interest
Key rings and lapel pins (many people collect them)
Event tickets (accompanied by framed poster of performer or latest CD)
Backpacks with wheels, compact binoculars, leather portfolios
Cufflinks, watches, brooches

International Gift Ideas: The Gaffes

Avoid giving items a country is known for i.e. silver in Mexico or chocolates in Belgium.
Avoid items that are too personal such as perfume or lingerie.
Avoid pointed and sharp objects such as knives or scissors which in some countries represent the severing of a relationship.

Gifts of art may not fit the décor or person's taste so check before giving paintings, sculpture and other pieces of art.
Religious items unless absolutely sure they are appropriate.
Gag gifts are inappropriate in international business.

GPA is a consulting company specializing in strategic corporate diplomacy and protocol. We provide seminars, workshops and coaching to prepare today's business executive to become tomorrow's global leader - the Executive Diplomat.

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