Office holiday gift-giving etiquette. Who should you give gifts to and what? This could be tricky, however, not too bad if you follow pretty much what is standard in the office throughout the year for such events as birthdays and such, but most of all use common sense as to what you feel is appropriate as to gift-giving in the office. It is very important to keep in mind the kind of relationship that exists amongst employees and between the employees and the boss. Normally in small office settings the relationship amongst all employees, including the boss, is quite friendly and informal. However, in a large office environment there tends to be a more formal relationship, especially between boss and employee and gift-giving would, more than likely, be different than that of small office setting.
Small office setting: It would be acceptable for employees to either get together and give the boss a gift from all of them, or each individual employee give the boss a reasonably priced gift. The gift should be either office related or something of a non-personal nature such as a fruit basket or cheese and crackers basket. From personal experience, as a boss, you should give your employees something that you picked out yourself, which will show you took the time to think about them, as the gift really is a token of appreciation for all they have done for you during the year. Good gifts are Christmas tree ornaments or holiday tins filled with cookies or candy, but definitely the same for all the employees.
Large office setting: In this type of setting a more professional gift-giving etiquette would apply. What I have seen most often take place is for employees to take a collection and give the boss a gift from all of them. As far as the boss giving employees a gift, gift-giving should be limited to immediate staff such as secretary, assistant, and others that report directly to him/her. Once again, nothing of a personal nature should be given. Instead go with something that shows you appreciate what they have done for you throughout the year. Some ideas are coffee shop gift cards or hand made Christmas decorations (like the ones you would find at craft shows).
When is it appropriate to exchange gifts? Sometimes, besides wondering what would be appropriate for whom, is to figure out when would be the most appropriate time to give the boss or co-workers their gifts. Well, most offices have holiday parties or luncheons early to mid December because we all try to avoid leaving anyone out who may be going on vacation this time of the year. So, not only is this a great opportunity for your gift exchange activities, but it also makes it more appropriate to give Christmas-related gifts for all to enjoy the rest of the season.
One last great office gift-giving idea… try giving small potted poinsettias for your employees to place at their desks. Poinsettias are bright, cheery, and definitely say MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!
