Last updated : Tuesday, December 1, 2009

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Gifting Etiquette at the Office

Before you run out and by a bank-breaking gift for your boss, it's important to know what message your gift may be sending. Expensive doesn't always mean better; in fact most of the time buying the boss a pricey present can make you look bad. So where do you begin when it comes to gifting your boss? We went to Jacqueline Whitmore, founder of etiquetteexpert.com, who went over some gifting guidelines.

Where should I begin when looking for a gift for my boss?
The old rule was that you never bought your boss a gift, but the office dynamics have changed over the years. First, you should know your company's gifting policies. Some offices don't celebrate the holidays at all. So make sure you know what the convention is at your place of work.

So if people do give gifts, how much should I spend?
It's hard to put a spending limit on a gift for your boss, but buy something that is meaningful to him or to her. Let's face it, bosses have everything – they don't need another coffee mug or picture frame. So maybe you buy a gift for his or her family or his or her pet, something small that says "happy holidays." Otherwise it can look suspicious to both your boss and your coworkers. A really expensive gift from just you could look like you're trying to win favor. A $120 massage you purchase by yourself is unprofessional.

If you do want to get something more expensive, go in on it with a group of people.

Are there any absolute no-no's when it comes to gifting at the office?
If you are a male giving to a female boss, stay away from perfume, lotion and clothing. These can all be interpreted the wrong way. In general, "funny" might not translate, so stay away from gag gifts. And depending on the culture of your office, if you decide to gift alcohol, you may want to give it to your boss off site, at the holiday party or another out-of-office gathering.

What if I have more than one manager? Do I have to get a gift for all of them?
No. Choose the one with whom you work most closely. If you do decide to gift other managers in your office, make sure it's something very small, like a homemade banana bread or something that is unique to you.

For more, go to the Career section.

Jacqueline Whitmore, CSP, has helped thousands of people around the world learn to be more confident and courteous in business and social situations. Regarded as one of the foremost authorities on business etiquette in the world, Jacqueline has appeared on a variety of national television shows including ABC's 20/20, The Fox Report with Shepard Smith, CNN's Anderson Cooper 360°, The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, ExtraTV, CNBC, and FoxBusiness.com.

 

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