You're a Co-worker

  • Know the office customs - If you're new to the company, check into the policy on gift giving; ask others what's generally done.
  • Decide who's participating - If an office gift swap isn't taking place, but you want to exchange gifts with several of your co-workers, do it in a restaurant. Go out for lunch. Meet after work for drinks. Just don't exchange presents in front of everyone else.

You're Buying Gifts for Any Business Associate

[Note: These rules apply to buying gifts for clients and customers, as well.]

  • Never buy anything too personal - e.g., earrings or jewelry, perfume or cologne, scented soaps or body lotions. Even if you know his or her favorite scent, or what brand of tie he wears or scarf she prefers, these types of gifts are appropriate only when given by spouses or significant others. Never buy gifts that imply intimacy. You don't want to send the wrong message to anyone.
  • Don't be insulting - The gift of pampering - e.g., a manicure or facial - is thoughtful. Three months of membership in a weight reduction program isn't.
  • Be cautious about giving alcohol - This is another gift that has the potential to cross the line, especially if you don't know the recipient's preferences, or worse, you learn later that he or she doesn't consume alcoholic beverages.
  • Safe gifts - The key to making a business gift a total winner is to include a note expressing genuine appreciation along with your holiday wishes.

Here are some simple, fail-safe gift ideas for any business associate on your holiday list:

  • Food items or gift baskets - tea, coffee, nuts, chocolate, jams, cookies
  • A decorative item for their office - business card holder, picture frame
  • A flowering holiday plant in an attractive planter - cyclamen; kalanchoe; poinsettia; Christmas cactus
  • A gift card to a local coffee or gourmet shop, gift shop, or restaurant
  • A gadget or other item related to their hobby - gardening, biking, golf
  • A donation to their favorite charity
  • Books/CDs/DVDs or a gift certificate to a store that sells these items
  • Gifts of storage and organization - attractive nested baskets, desk accessories, photo album.

You might also enjoy:

Plan the perfect company holiday party
Multicultural and festive: Great office holiday parties
Business events getting friendlier
Tasty & Trendy: What's now and what's next