7 Tips To Avoid a Gift-Giving Gaffe

There always seems to be an occasion to buy a gift for someone at work. Whether it’s a thank-you for a client, a colleague’s birthday, promotion, or farewell, make sure you are familiar with office gift-giving etiquette. With Christmas coming next week, it’s even more important to be aware of what to buy and what to avoid completely.{{more}}

When buying for a client, ask about the company gift-giving policy, as some companies have a no tolerance policy. Some others have a price limit or other limitations.

Avoid gag gifts, personal items, home made and expensive selections. You can be seen as a show off if you splurge, or cheap if you give a bad homemade gift.

Wrap the gift. A nicely wrapped gift indicates that you are a person who is organized and understand the importance of details and first impressions

Recycling gifts. If you have a great gift that you do not want, please rewrap the gift (remove the name tag), and if you got it at work, don’t recycle it at work.

Gift certificates, books and gourmet foods are great. Be sure you know a little about the person’s likes or dislikes before you buy.

Before you buy for a supervisor or manager, ask what the company policy is. It could be seen as seeking favoritism.

Giving is optional, but be fair. If you participate in an office Christmas Santa, stick to the rules and don’t forget to buy the gift.

Karen Hinds is “The Workplace Success Expert” For a FREE SPECIAL REPORT on 7 Ways to Develop your Competitive Edge in the Workplace, send an email to info@workplacesuccess.com Visit online at www.workplacesuccess.com