I ran across an interesting word:  lagnaippe (pronounced lan-yap).  It’s a creole term meaning “something extra” or “a little extra surprise.”  For example, the 13th donut in a baker’s dozen. 

Clients and patients love receiving lagnaippe.  For one thing, it makes them feel special.  That sucker you give the child as he leaves your office is lagnaippe.  Here are some other examples you might want to consider:

• When a new patient fills out paperwork, give him/her the pen to keep.  Of course, it has your name on it, but it is still a nice thought.
• I know a new doctor who gives each new patient a canvas bag to carry paperwork and directions on exercises in.  Great idea!
• Another professional gives a cookie to clients who fill out a satisfaction survey

Some tips for lagniappe:

1. Keep it small and simple.  You don’t need to spend a lot of money to make people feel special.

2.  Don’t do it all the time.  People take it for granted, and expected gifts aren’t valued.  Only give once in a while.

3.  Give unexpectedly.  Avoid the traditional holidays and occasions.  One doctor I know sends Thanksgiving cards instead of Christmas or Hanukkah cards, to express his gratitude to patients who have been with him for a year.

4.  Finally, the best present is a sincere “thank you,” which costs nothing and gives huge payback.

Happy Lagnaippe Day!