MONEY MANNERS
DEAR JEANNE & LEONARD:
I recently was appointed the head of a nonprofit that has just less than 50 employees. This holiday season, I would like to give each employee a small token of my appreciation, specifically: a gift card. My preference is to give everyone the same amount, regardless of his or her title or position. Your thoughts? — Santa
DEAR SANTA:
You do realize that your namesake gives gifts only to children who’ve been good, right?
Look, we understand that what you have in mind is not a bonus for good work or recognition of longevity with the firm, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Nor is there anything wrong with giving the same gift to everyone in the office. But you need to make it clear to all that your gift is a token of appreciation and respect from a new boss to old hands. Because it would be a shame if your most productive employees — or your least — were to interpret your gift to mean that you had not taken note of the quality of their work.
DEAR JEANNE & LEONARD:
My parents know I love gaming. So for Christmas in recent years, they’ve been giving me a $200 gift certificate to get whatever games and gear I’ve wanted. Well, this year I’d really like the PlayStation VR Bundle, which costs about $500 with tax. But when I asked my folks if they’d be willing to give me that amount, they said “no.” So I offered to split the difference with them, saying I’d contribute $150 if they’d put in an extra $150. But they were unwilling to compromise. What do you suggest I say to them? I’ve never asked for anything special before, and my parents have plenty of money. So you know, I work in a pub and don’t make much.
— Luke
DEAR LUKE:
Wait a minute! You work in a pub? We thought you were 12. Look, holiday gift-giving is not a negotiation. It’s an act of affection and generosity. This means that when someone wants to give you a gift, you don’t start trying to make a deal.
But to answer your question, what you should say to your parents is this: “I appreciate your generosity, and I’ll be happy with whatever you give me for Christmas.”