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Is Holiday Gift Giving in the Workplace Appropriate?

 

Ensure that gift-giving is allowed in your workplace and if there is a dollar limit.  Then consider the appropriateness of the gift.  There may be religious, or gender issues attached to some gifts, such as perfume or jewelry for women and religious icons or pork products for some religions. 

Gift for The Boss

  • Simple gifts to the boss, so as not to appear like an apple polisher. 
  • Homemade treats
  • Anything for the desk: calendars, stationery, pens, letter openers, picture frame...
  • Book
  • Box of candy

Associates to Each Other

Gift giving is not equal, because we give gifts according to our relationship with the person.

Not Close:

  • Small items for the desk: ‘to-do’ lists tablets, coffee mugs, treats...
  • Filled coffee mugs: candy, teas, coffee...
  • A book
  • Cute holiday-themed items: Santa bobblehead, etc.
  • $5 Gift certificate: coffee shop?

Those Who are Close:

  • Consider the person’s preferences.
  • Anything for the desk: calendars, stationery, pens, and letter openers
  • Personalized cards
  • Golf balls or other sport and hobby item
  • Candles
  • Gift certificates to places he/she frequents

Boss To Employees or Staff

Bosses should give gifts of equal value to each employee, except perhaps to her/his personal assistant and those with whom he/she works closely. 

  • Do not give logo-bearing gifts for the holidays—tacky.
  • Charity in name of the company
  • Large box of candy, bagels, or even danish for everyone
  • For individual employees: gift certificates, candy, or something similar. 

How About Giving to Clients?

  • Giving to clients must be done carefully.
  • Gifts should not be too extravagant or too cheap.
  • Bottle of wine with special label (if it is allowed)

Bottom Line

Consider if the gift is appropriate to give, what is appropriate to give, and to whom to give.  And, all gifts should be thoughtful and given because the giver wishes to give.

  • No gag gifts!!
  • In most situations, gifts should cost less than $20 per person.
  • Give in private and gift wrapped or at least nicely presented, including a card.
  • Reciprocal gifts are not obligatory, but you could stash a small box of candy ready just in case.   
  • All gift-giving is optional.   

More by Rebecca

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