Last updated : Thursday, December 11, 2008

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10 Gift Ideas for Your Boss

Buying your boss a gift can be tricky business. You don't want to spend too much and come off as a brown-noser, but you definitely don't want to spend too little and seem cheap. Worst of all, you don't want to get something offensive. For all of us employees out there who want to put a smile on the boss' face, here are 10 gift ideas that will put you on the "nice" list this year.

1. Spirits
Always a good go-to, wrap a ribbon around a nice bottle of scotch, wine, bourbon, champagne … whatever his or her drink of choice may be.

If you go the wine route, check out our video with a sommelier who shares tips on gifting the perfect wine.

2. Cigars
If your boss is a cigar smoker, this is a good option. Make sure, however, you are buying good cigars. Go to a reputable cigar shop (avoid the corner shops in the mall with limited selections) and ask a sales person for a recommendation that is made of 100 percent tobacco. You can find good quality cigars that cost anywhere between $6.00 and $15.00, so don't assume the $20.00 option is necessarily the best.

3. A book
Even if you don't know what your boss enjoys reading, biographies of distinguished people in business are always a safe bet (think Warren Buffet, J.P Morgan, Henry Ford, Martha Stewart etc.)

4. Portable speakers
For the gadget lover, this portable speaker won't break the bank and will deliver great sound. It's an especially great gift for your boss who has to travel a lot for work.

For more great gadget gifts, click here.

5. A scarf or gloves
While you should proceed with caution when gifting clothing, small fuzzy items like scarves or gloves are generally safe territory. Go with something neutral and plush; cashmere is always a crowd pleaser.

Doing a Secret Santa at the office? Check out these stylish accessories.

6. Omaha Steaks
As long as your boss eats meat, he or she can enjoy this gift long after the holidays are through.

If your boss is a foodie, here are a bunch of other gourmet options.

7. Leather necktie travel case
More creative than a leather journal or passport holder, a durable, yet stylish necktie case will come in handy when your boss is on the road.

8. Tickets to a game, concert or show
Is your boss a theater-goer? A huge Springsteen fan? Maybe he or she LOVES hockey. A couple tickets to an event of preference will surely impress.

9. Subscription to a magazine
Figure out what your boss likes to read and get him or her a year's subscription to a magazine of choice.

10. Hands-free headset
If your boss doesn't already use one, a hands-free headset is a must-have for any busy executive. Now, when the phone rings off the hook, your boss won't have to be hooked to a desk all day and can answer the phone from anywhere.

For more tips, go to the career section.

 

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