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As much as you’d probably love to receive an iPad (or a puppy) as a present, is it the right gift to give your boss?
For National Boss Day this year you’d like to give something to show your appreciation. You greet your boss with a bright smile and a pleasant “Hello” every morning, but maybe you feel like it’s not enough for Boss’s Day.
While it’s not required to give your boss a gift for the holiday, going the extra mile to say “Thanks” couldn’t hurt. But if you’re hesitant to purchase a gift because you’re afraid it’ll make your boss feel uncomfortable or will look like you’re trying to “buy” your way into his or her good graces, ENTITY is here to help you with some gift-giving etiquette.
For birthdays, holidays or any other special occasion, group gifts are the perfect way to take away any individual pressure and prevent animosity or jealousy. Keep in mind, however, that not everyone may want to participate. So if your office organizes a gift exchange, “make it opt-in rather than opt-out,” suggests Alison Green from U.S. News. Some men and women may feel awkward being the one who declines to participate. To avoid this situation, ask for people to sign up (not sign out) if they’re interested.
If you want more people to participate, consider setting a low dollar limit in order to incentivize your coworkers. When the budget is small, more people can take part in the gift exchange. However, if you do decide that you want to give an individual present, avoid flaunting your gift in front of other employees. Be discreet and deliver it in private, preferably outside the office.
Keep in mind the popular saying, “The best gifts come from the heart.” When you give someone a present, it’s best to keep the gift simple and sincere. Think about gifts that are not only appropriate for the workplace, but are also thoughtful. Does your boss like stationery? Does he or she enjoy glass figurines? “It’s not important to give something overly substantial in order for the gift to be appreciated,” Kerry Preston, author and businesswoman, tells CBS News.
You can also opt for giving your boss something handmade, but The Balance suggests first considering how personal your relationship is with your boss. “If you see your boss from time to time a handmade knitted sweater is too much,” advises the website. “But if you have a close working relationship with your boss, a knitted scarf might be fine.”
Just always keep in mind that the goal of giving presents should be to make your boss feel appreciated and happy, not uncomfortable. Sometimes, a meaningful card is enough.
If you’re looking for a way to participate without breaking the bank, you can opt to give your boss food. Food items (especially homemade baked goods) are often low-cost and can also be enjoyed by the rest of the office. If you make a cake for boss’s day, you can share the slices with your coworkers.
Not only that, but as the Enterprise Engagement website points out, “Food items are very popular as corporate gifts [because] they tie in well to many holidays and can be taken home and enjoyed with friends and family.” If you really want to personalize the present, stay away from generic gourmet baskets.
Whatever you decide to give your boss, it’s most important to remember to give sincerely. In general, it’s a good habit to give gifts without expecting anything in return. Don’t give your boss a present and expect a raise, promotion or favoritism. If this is the reason you’re buying your boss a present, then you’re giving for the wrong reasons. Presents should always be focused on the recipient and not the giver.
So, think about your boss’s personality and preferences before purchasing anything. It doesn’t have to be expensive; it just has to be meaningful. If you’re still out of ideas and need some suggestions, visit Sara Butler’s article, “Forgot About National Boss’s Day? ENTITY’s Got You Covered.”
