Is It Better To Give -- At The Office?

The holidays can be tricky with gift giving and various celebrations and religious beliefs. Who do you give a gift, how much do you spend, what happens if you receive a gift and do not have one in return?

This month will be offering a few tips to help keep your stress levels low and your holiday spirits high during this busy season. The following are a few things to remember about gift giving if you work in a big office or a small one.

1. If you are exchanging gifts in the office with all but a few, avoid exchanging them at the office. Instead, meet after work, and do not talk about your gifts the next day in the office.
2. Do you give your boss a gift? Not necessarily. It becomes a contest of who gave what and how much did they spend. The boss can give gifts to the employees, but not necessary to reciprocate. A nice card showing your appreciation is always welcome or giving something homemade, such as cookies or artwork. Another nice gesture is getting your co-workers together on a gift.
3. Be respective of traditions and religious believes. It does not mean you have to exclude people from holiday parties and gift giving, but give them the option to participate. Office festivities and holiday cards should state "Happy Holidays," "Holiday Greetings," or "The Best for the Season."
4. Always personalize your holiday cards. If your company name is embossed or printed at the bottom of the card, a signed name or names still apply. If possible, handwrite the address instead of using labels and use holiday stamps, instead of the meter.
5. Have a few gifts in reserve. A gift certificate to the local bookstore can come in handy; a few candles in gift bags can save you an embarrassing moment.

Remember - If you receive a gift with nothing to give in return, do not apologize for not having a gift; just be extremely appreciative and follow up with a nice thank-you note.

Source: Colleen A. Rickenbacher is a business etiquette expert and author of Be on Your Best Business Behavior, and Be on Your Best Cultural Behavior. She helps clients improve manners, image and communication skills.

 

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Is It Better To Give -- At The Office?