Attitudes regarding gift giving in the workplace vary widely. Because so few companies have a gift giving policy, the majority of us wonder what to do as the holidays approach.
To eliminate hurt feelings, overspending and additional holiday stress, department managers should consider establishing some informal guidelines. First and foremost, it should be made clear that gift giving is not mandatory. For those who are overwhelmed with the work and expense holidays demand, buying office gifts can be more than they can handle. Their choice should be respected.
Those who choose to participate in a gift exchange should determine in advance how it will be handled; who will give to whom and within what price range the gift should be.
Without a policy or advance planning, keep these thoughts in mind:
- You do not have to give a gift to your boss but if you have a close relationship and would like to let him know you are thinking of him, do not give something too expensive or personal. Consider giving a CD or an office accessory.
- Your gift should be appropriate. Do not give a box of chocolates to your coworker who is struggling to keep his weight down. Gifts of books and music can be easily chosen with an awareness of the recipient’s preferences.
- Do not give any gift with a sexual overtone. What you think is humorous and clever, may offend the recipient and at worst get you fired.
- Give thoughtful gifts. Your gift should say you know what the recipient will appreciate and value. Try not to give the equivalent of the holiday fruitcake; the gift your recipient will pass on to someone else.
- Don’t use the occasion to try to improve your recipient. For instance, a chronically unorganized cubicle mate won’t appreciate “Organizing for Dummies.”
- Don’t overdo it. Be generous and give appropriately for the relationship but not to the point where the recipient feels uncomfortable. Even though you may be in a position to give lavishly, think of the message you could be sending.
- Be sensitive about giving alcohol. It is fine to give a known wine enthusiast a favorite brand, but if you don’t know anything about a person’s drinking habits, you could offend someone who may, for religious or personal reasons, not drink at all.
- Present your gift at the right time and in the right way. If you choose to give a gift to one person in another department, don’t present it in front of his coworkers. Deliver it discreetly.
- Deliver your gift personally and from the heart. Your recipient will not be touched by your generosity if you run into her office, drop it on her desk and run out. Show her you are happy to give by paying some attention to the act of giving and to her.
- Hand write a thank you note for each gift you receive. Saying and emailing a thank you is not sufficient even in an office environment.
