When it comes to holiday gift giving in the office, err on the safe side, said Anna Prior in The Wall Street Journal. “Giving certain gifts could get you in trouble.” In other words, don’t give the “cute gal” in the cubicle next to you a Victoria’s Secret gift card, and avoid giving clothing, jewelry, perfume, or anything else that’s too personal. “Gag gifts can cause problems as well,” since your idea of funny may be another person’s idea of inappropriate. What about cash? That’s a big “no-no.”
Books, music, and movie tickets—assuming that they’re not suggestive in any way—are usually a safe bet for subordinates, said Michelle Goodman in The Seattle Times. Gourmet coffee, homemade cookies, and some “safe-for-work” novelties are good for grab bags. As for giving gifts to the boss, consider convincing your co-workers to agree on a gift idea and a per-person cost, and arrange for a group gift. If a colleague can’t participate, “put that person’s name on the card anyway.” Think twice before giving a gift solely from you—it makes you seem like a “suck-up.”
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