Office Etiquette for Gift Giving

Thanksgiving is over and holiday shopping is officially in full swing. The holidays should be a time of celebration, but often they become a time of frustration as visions of gift giving dance through our heads. When it comes to giving within the office, it can be a virtual obstacle course filled with concerns, doubts and questions. As you prepare to spread holiday cheer, follow these simple tips for gift giving at the office.

Make your boss’s gift a team effort.

Shopping for your boss can be a bit tricky. Gathering the team for this gift is beneficial in many ways. Organizing a group gift keeps the costs low and helps in getting a nicer, more substantial gift. Team effort provides more ideas for the perfect present.

Stick to your budget.

Resist the temptation to go overboard. Going above and beyond will hurt your wallet and will look like you’re trying to impress or show off. Use this to time show genuine gratitude with a modest but heartfelt gift.

Save the gag gifts.

They can be entertaining and often times hilarious, but gag gifts can go bad quickly. Keep it classy and save the gag gifts for close friends and family who you know will appreciate your sense of humor.

Join in the fun.

Don’t be the office Scrooge! If your practice has a secret Santa or gift exchange, plan on joining in on the festivities. The cost is small, it’s fun and it’s a great way to deal with those gift giving woes.

Give discreetly.

If you choose to give gifts to a select few in your practice, ensure that you give discreetly or away from the office. Avoid making others feel hurt or excluded during a time of the year that focuses on goodwill and joy.

While it can be tricky and stressful, the office gift exchange is a great way to get into the holiday spirit. Follow these tips and you’ll nurture those essential office relationships and keep your workplace merry and bright.

If your medical office participates in holiday gift giving, we would love to hear your tips on our Facebook page!

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