I received two gift cards for Christmas, and while I am anticipating the fun I am going to have spending them, I can't help but notice a difference between them -- and it has nothing to do with the dollar value.
One gift card came tucked in a little folder, a loop of ribbon attached to hold the actual card in place. However, the ribbon is way too large to actually do anything useful, so a piece of tape had been placed across one corner so it wouldn't slip loose. On the opposite side of the card is the typical message with the blank spaces for the name of the giver, recipient, and dollar amount. To "personalize" the message, different fonts were used to highlight certain words of the pre-printed message.
In contrast, the other gift card came in a small, embossed gift box, tied with a satin ribbon; it looks like a small diary or journal. Inside, there is a slight indentation in the center, sized to hold the card perfectly. There are three blank spaces for the giver to complete the very simple pre-printed, yet somehow genuine, message of good wishes.
The presentation of the first gift card is pretty. It features attractive colors and a decorative touch; it does its job, but is nothing outstanding. The presentation of the second gift card made me stop and say "Wow" when I opened it. It is classy, elegant and worth noticing, all on its own, regardless of the contents.
I would like to note that the gift cards came from similar stores, so I'm not comparing apples to hammers. Both will spend the same and I will enjoy what comes from my shopping equally well, but there is a world of difference between the two.
Clearly, one of them stands out.
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Remember...
As you start off the new year, give some thought as to how you are presenting yourself to others. Do you come across as someone who will "get the job done" or do you elicit a "Wow!"
Your first impression is a lasting one.
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