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.”
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
EastEnders at 40: are soaps still relevant?Talking Point Albert Square's residents are celebrating, but falling viewer figures have fans worried the soap bubble has burst
-
What will the thaw in Russia-US relations cost Europe?Today's Big Question US determination to strike a deal with Russia over Ukraine means Europe faces 'betrayal by a long-term ally'
-
Why Spain's economy is boomingThe Explainer Immigration, tourism and cheap energy driving best growth figures in Europe
