The holidays are just around the corner. Have you figured out what you are doing for your customers this year?

Now don't think that you need to spend lots of money or come up with a completely unique gift to make a good impression. The key for a successful gift is one that is accompanied by a personal touch.

A gift can be as simple as a holiday card. Have them imprinted with your company name, but make sure the card is signed by at least one person. Ideally this person has some relationship with the client and can script a small note. And when you choose cards, consider your recipients. While some will argue to send cards that have religious significance, I recommend one of the "Happy Holidays, Best wishes for the new year" variety instead.

If you have the budget, food is always a winning gift. Cookies, fruit, chocolate are more than welcome in most any office. With the right choice, you can even have your gift recipients talk about your present for months afterward. Don't worry about quantity as much as quality when choosing your food gift.

Gifts that can remind your clients of your company long after the holidays also make good gifts. Ideas range from durable desk toys to office calendars to clothing. To minimize the commercial feel of such gifts, it may be more appropriate to have your company's name tastefully embossed on a box or in a discreet position on the gift. Even if your gift doesn't have your company's name embossed on it, ribbon or wrap with your company's name for the presents can provide a smart touch.

Charitable donations to non-profit organizations can also be a thoughtful gift. Consider your customer base when you choose the charities to support to avoid offending your clients, though. As a nice touch, some charities will send thank you notes to the companies you sponsor.

No matter what gift you choose to send, make sure to send one to yourself first. That way you can ensure that there are no receipts or tacky catalogs included with the gift. Given the heightened sensitivity about opening unexpected packages, you may want to see how the box is packaged. An advance note that a gift is on its way is also recommended.

How much you spend is entirely up to you. You can spend anywhere from $5 to $50 or more per gift and have it successfully received. For those who have little to no budget, I have seen plates of homemade goodies hand-delivered to customers that were a huge success. To make it in time for this season, you need to start going now. For more tips on holiday gift giving for both customers and employees and for some gift ideas, click here.

You don't need to make a big splash to have a big impact on your customers. Taking the time to remember can simply be enough.