Christmas is a time of giving. In fact, it may feel to some that the giving never stops from late November until the New Year. But should you get your boss a gift? Should he or she buy you one? How do you handle the office Secret Santa? Ask a Manager blogger Alison Green has the answers.
To start off, Alison says gifts in the office are all about knowing your colleagues and the atmosphere. Not all companies run a Secret Santa exchange, while others might go all out in the name of the festive spirit. Make sure you understand how things will work and get to know your colleagues before diving in the deep end.
Should you get your boss a gift?
Typical etiquette says gifts should flow down from management, not up. This unwritten rule prevents people from spending money when they donโt want to or canโt afford it. However, there are some offices where everybody buys gifts for everyone and PAs are probably more likely to buy gifts for their bosses than others. In this case, really think about how much youโre willing to spend and whatโs appropriate. Sometimes a card and some chocolates is enough.
If the boss is typically expected to buy gifts for staff, a bulk treat such as baked goods or chocolates are a good way to include everybody without breaking the bank.
What if youโre being pressured and you canโt afford to buy a gift?
You might have an extended family to buy gifts for, or perhaps you just donโt earn enough to afford a present for a colleague. Maybe you just donโt feel comfortable doing it. Itโs perfectly reasonable to explain your reasons to your co-workers, but sometimes itโs also easier to say: โI canโt afford much, but hereโs ยฃ5 toward the bossโs gift.โ Donโt be afraid to speak up if youโre expected to spend too much; if youโre the one to say it, you might earn the gratitude of other colleagues.
Do I have to participate in Secret Santa?
In an ideal world, every company would allow its employees to opt in to Secret Santa exchanges. If not, and your co-workers see you as a miser if you donโt take part, donโt lose your cool. If you genuinely canโt afford it, be sure to explain that. Otherwise, keep it simple. Gift vouchers are sure to please most and food is also normally a winner. But be aware of your colleagueโs personal circumstances. Are they diabetic or allergic to something? Do they have religious beliefs that prohibit certain foods? Stay away from anything too personal, as well as alcohol, as some people donโt drink.
What if my colleague gets me a gift and I didnโt buy one for them?
A simple โthank youโ will often suffice. You canโt be expected to predict whether a co-worker will buy you a present. If it does feel awkward, follow it up with a voucher for the local cafรฉ or some sweet treats.
Read the original article from Time Money at ti.me/1NGvK6V
