Gifting etiquette

Tips for organizing a holiday gift exchange at the office

Close-knit groups of co-workers often exchange gifts with one another come the holiday season. Most people enjoy bringing smiles to the faces of their friends and fellow employees, and these informal gift exchanges can benefit company morale and establish a familial atmosphere at the office.

Despite the good-natured reasons to exchange gifts with co-workers, some people are nervous about the prospect of buying gifts for fellow employees. Questions regarding what makes for an appropriate gift or how much to spend may arise, turning office gift exchanges into potentially puzzling situations.

Those who are ready to participate in an office gift exchange can follow certain etiquette guidelines to take the anxiety out of office gifting.

Determine if there is an office policy governing gift exchanges.

Some businesses may have a specific policy in place that establishes guidelines on what makes acceptable, appropriate gifts for co-workers. The larger the company, the more specific the policy is likely to be.

Consider the overall office climate.

Is yours a relaxed working environment, or is it ultra formal? Allow the corporate culture to play a part in your gifting decisions. A gift that may be appropriate for co-workers in a smaller, casual company may not be fitting for a large, rules-heavy corporation. Always let common sense prevail.

Establish a spending limit.

Spending limits let everyone know just how much to spend. Resist the urge to go above and beyond when choosing gifts for fellow workers. While you may just want to be generous, others may view an expensive gift as a way to show off or an attempt to flatter a co-worker — or even a boss.

Think of people’s lives outside the office.

When shopping, think about what your co-workers like to do when they are not at work. For example, golf enthusiasts may enjoy a box of golf balls or a gift certificate to play at an area course. Stick to generic gifts if you are unsure of what your co-workers do when they are not working. Personalized holiday mementos, gadgets for entertaining, items that can be used around the office or food-related gift baskets make great holiday gifts. Remember to take into account others’ religions and traditions when shopping.

Avoid choosing gifts that are overly personal.

Steer clear of giving fragrances or cosmetic products because unless the co-worker is also a close friend, you do not know what the other person will like. Scented products also may send the wrong message, indicating that you think someone needs to cover up with an aroma. Clothing is another gift to avoid, as certain items may be seen as suggestive, and you may not be in tune with the recipient’s personal style.

Consider sharing personal or handmade gifts.

Custom-decorated picture frames, handpicked gift baskets filled with homemade treats, or gift certificates to a favorite coffee shop or lunch spot in the vicinity of the office all make ideal office gifts.

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