How to Survive Office Gifting

Because of the high cost and heartache of office politics, there are several rules in office gift giving that are good to follow.

1.You are NEVER obligated to give anyone gifts.
It is actually considered inappropriate to purchase gifts for bosses or management as it can be considered buying favors--unless you are particularly close or have a good relationship with said person where the gift won't be misunderstood. Some corporate companies actually discourage any gift giving among employees in general as it can cause jealousy among the personnel. They would prefer that personal things be done outside of business hours.

2. If you can't afford a gift, don't give one. More people are in debt due to an unfounded obligation to get a "nice" gift for someone they really don't know that well or don't care about. Simple cards or notes to let the individual know you are thinking of them are considered appropriate.

3.Gifting is reciprocal. If someone gives you a birthday gift, then it would be appropriate to give a small gift for their birthday...Generally, try to stay under the $10- $20 mark. If you are unable to afford a gift, a card or note to let them know you remembered is equally appropriate. Be aware of your company's policy on gift giving. Consider the fact that gift giving can be thought of as preferential treatment among other members of your office.

4. It is acceptable to only give to friends. If you never talk to the person or don't ever see them, you're not obligated to give them a gift. Gifts should be a outpouring of you friendship...not an obligation. However, if you are close enough to give a gift, consider doing so during a lunch break or outside of work hours to avoid discussion and from distracting others from their jobs. The last thing you want to do is to cause a situation where people have their feelings hurt because you bought one person a gift but not them.