The YES Network shows how to give truly personal business gifts this holiday season
After more than two decades on the air, “The Michael Kay Show” bid farewell to its loyal listeners. The popular sports talk radio program, a fixture in the New York City area since 2002, aired its final episode last week, marking the end of an era for sports fans and the YES Network.
To commemorate the show’s long and successful run, the YES Network presented the three hosts with unique and personalized parting gifts, each reflecting their individual passions and contributions to the program.
Don LaGreca, the show’s resident hockey expert, received a life-size replica of the Stanley Cup, hockey’s most coveted prize. Adding a special touch, the names of everyone who ever worked on the show were engraved on the trophy, symbolizing the team effort behind the program’s success.
Michael Kay, the show’s namesake and the voice of the New York Yankees, received a personalized Hall of Fame plaque reminiscent of those found in Monument Park at Yankee Stadium. The plaque served as a tribute to Kay’s illustrious broadcasting career and his deep connection to the Yankees organization.
Peter Rosenberg, known for his expertise in professional wrestling, was presented with a WWE championship belt emblazoned with his name and the show’s logo. The belt, a symbol of triumph and achievement in the world of professional wrestling, recognized Rosenberg’s unique perspective and his ability to connect with fans beyond the realm of traditional sports.
These thoughtful and personalized gifts resonated with the hosts and symbolized the show’s enduring legacy. The YES Network’s thoughtful farewell gifts to their departing radio show hosts offer valuable lessons in corporate gifting, especially during the holiday season:
Personalization is Key: Each gift was incredibly personal and relevant to the recipient’s passions and contributions to the show. Don LaGreca, the hockey expert, received a Stanley Cup replica; Michael Kay, the Yankees announcer, received a Hall of Fame-style plaque; and Peter Rosenberg, the wrestling enthusiast, received a WWE championship belt. This level of personalization demonstrates genuine appreciation and makes the gift truly memorable.
Go Beyond Monetary Value: While the gifts were undoubtedly valuable, their true worth lay in their sentimental value and connection to the recipients’ careers. This emphasizes that thoughtful gifts, even if not extravagant, can be far more impactful than generic, expensive items.
Celebrate Achievements: The gifts served as a symbolic recognition of the hosts’ 22-year run on the radio show. Organizations can apply this by using gifts to commemorate milestones, achievements, or significant contributions of employees.
Foster a Sense of Belonging: Engraving the names of everyone who worked on the show on the Stanley Cup replica created a sense of shared history and camaraderie. Similarly, incorporating the show’s logo on the WWE belt connected the gift to a shared experience. This highlights the power of gifts to foster a sense of belonging and team spirit.
Timing Matters: While this wasn’t a holiday gift, the principle applies. Choosing a significant moment, like the end of an era or a major achievement, can amplify the impact of a corporate gift.
The YES Network’s approach to gifting provides a valuable template for organizations. By focusing on personalization, celebrating achievements, and fostering a sense of belonging, companies can leverage corporate gifts to express genuine appreciation and strengthen relationships, whether during the holidays or at any other time of the year.
Any thoughts, opinions, or news? Please share them with me at vince@meetingsevents.com.
