ForumsShop Talk

I agree with the previous recommendations -- with one caution/addition: Is the buyer employed by a federal, state, or local government entity (or by a commercial firm with a government operating contract), and/or is the buyer purchasing your firm's products or services through any type of competitive bid process? If so, I would call her manager, state your intention, and confirm that your gift will not be perceived as a problem -- you don't want your thoughtfulness to actually cause her or her organization (or your organization) any trouble down the road.

Just a simple call like that shows professionalism (which will be appreciated -- as will your gift when the baby is born). If the manager does object to or advise against the gift, consider a sincere card of congratulations along with a donation made in her and her baby's name to the maternity ward or children's wing of her hospital (or some similar charitiable cause that she would appreciate).

That's the approach I take if I feel a personal gift to a business associate could be misrepresented (for instance, by a competitor of mine who wants the business I have with that client, and tries to get it by stirring up ethical issues -- like telling an investigative journalist that I'm giving the client's buyer personal gifts). I have one competitor who is not above pulling that sort of thing, so it's worth the extra call to avoid putting anyone in a compromising position.

Welcome to the community. Best wishes.