Before you know it, the Christmas holidays are going to be here. It is a great time of year to help establish a solid relationship with some of your newer customers. It is also a great time to find a way to express your gratitude to all of your current employees, clients or both. One of the best ways to do these things is by sending a holiday gift. If you're going to be buying a holiday gift, you might as well increase the awareness of your brand while you're at it, right? Here are four categories of promotional gifts that you should consider buying this year for the company, whether for clients or employees:

1. Tech-Related Gifts

If you are looking for a gift that will demonstrate that you're "in the know" with the latest happenings, you may want to consider a tech-related gift. These types of gifts are usually used on a daily basis, which make them ideal for just about anyone and everyone. You can opt for laptop bags, Bluetooth speakers or even power banks.

2. Apparel Gifts

Apparel is one of the longest shelf life options that you could purchase at the holidays for clients and employees alike. When you have a shirt or jacket that you absolutely love, you can often keep it for years. More often than not, this shirt or jacket of yours has a logo on it. Therefore, it goes without saying that logoed apparel can be a wonderful option this Christmas. Consider winter accessories, fleece jackets or a branded company t-shirt.

3. Office-Related Gifts

Since the office is typically the second home for a large number of people, it would make sense to plan your holiday gift for them around this. Think of gifts that your clients or employees could use while they're in the office, while also being able to boost brand awareness for yourself. A few ideas here include debossed padfolios, branded journals and even laser-engraved executive pens.

4. Food Gifts

Who in the world doesn't love food? They say that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach, but this is honestly true for any person, regardless of their sex. So why not send a basket of chocolate, fruits or sweets? You could also consider sending a bottle of wine with some cheese and crackers for someone who doesn't like sweets or who you would like to provide a more upscale gift for.

You may feel overwhelmed with all of the choices that you have available to you for your clients and employees when it comes to holiday gifts. However, if you take some time to research your target market and develop a budget beforehand, you will be able to find the most appropriate and useful promotional holiday gift that will show your employees and clients that you care about their loyalty. In the end, you'll be able to promote good tidings, generate good will and endorse your brand all at the same time.