Corporate Gift Giving Tips
Below are popular occasions for gift giving in the corporate world:
- Promotion
- Retirement
- Special Awards
- Successful Project
- Farewell Party
- Special Holidays like Christmas
Employers give gifts to their employees generally in appreciation of a job well done. Gifts are exchanged with peers as a token of friendship and camaraderie in the workplace. But when it comes to giving gifts to the Boss, many just feel awkward about it.
Here are etiquettes on gift giving in the corporate world from Please and ThankYou.
- Inquire first about the company's gifting policy. Many corporations do not allow their employees to receive a gift of any sort…while others have set guidelines on the value or type of gift. A departmental gift that can be shared by all is an excellent way to show appreciation.
- Avoid gifts that are too personal. Never give a gift that could give the wrong impression. It is always better to be safe than sorry. A gift that is too personal or too expensive may be perceived as a bribe. What's acceptable? Gift Baskets, Office Related Items, Gift Certificates and Books are good choices.
- Just because you receive a gift does not mean you must give one in return. When an employer gives a gift, often an employee feels uneasy about not reciprocating. Unless they have a special friendship, a reciprocated gift for the boss is not necessary. Should the employee choose to present the boss with a gift, there is no need to match the dollar amount of the boss's gift. A well-written Thank-you note is always in order.
- Unless it is a company Holiday party, avoid giving gifts during working hours. It is not only distracting, but can create jealousy if people receive gifts of perceived unequal value. We recommend the name drawing gift approach for large offices with set spending limits. Special gifts for select employees should be given separately without an audience.
- It is fine to set gift value levels based on company tenure. If you have an employee who has been with you for only a year or less, a nice plant or gift basket would be appreciated and is appropriate. For that loyal manager with ten years of outstanding service a gift with a higher value and or a Holiday bonus is deserved.
- It Is The Thought That Counts! A well thought out less expensive gift is enjoyed and appreciated more that a last minute expensive gift. Plan ahead and expect to spend time selecting your appropriate business gifts. Gifts that show thought…show you care and are sincere in your expressed message.
- Need To Return A Gift? If you receive a gift from a client or vendor that is too expensive or personal, send it back immediately with a note that thanks the sender for the thought, but also explains your company's gift guidelines.
Corporate Gifts for a Higher Purpose
Whether you are giving gifts to a fellow worker, a subordinate or your Boss, make gift giving more meaningful by thinking: for what purpose are you giving your gift? What are his/her needs at the moment? Does he/she happen to be going through a crisis? Does he/she have a major character flaw that antagonizes or oppresses others?
Being in the same work place, you must have enough knowledge about the other person's condition. Gift giving can go beyond the conventional. Consider giving gifts that build the person or help alleviate the person's present situation. Here are a few samples yo get you started:
- A subscription to an inspirational magazine
- Inspirational books, videos, music
- The Holy Bible (for Christian workmates)
- Ticket to a wholesome show/movie/sporting even
Gift ideas are limitless. Just think about the person's situation and you'll know the right gift when you see one.
As you choose your gift, use your reason and your heart. Once you have made a tentative choice, consult God if it's really the best. Click here for a simple way to confirm your choice.
And don't forget to append a note or card with your "message from the heart". Add a bible quote to declare a blessing.
Happy Gift Giving!!!