The holidays are a time of giving, but, for many of us, what we receive are the added pressures of navigating family dynamics, balancing work commitments, and, of course, buying thoughtful holiday gifts for our fellow employees.
Exchanging gifts in the workplace can certainly be a fun and festive way to bring the team together and build camaraderie. However, it can all go wrong pretty quickly if certain etiquette rules aren't followed, and guardrails aren’t put in place. So, before you suggest a gift exchange, it’s important to establish a policy that helps avoid conflicts of interest and ensures all your colleagues feel included and comfortable.
Your workplace gift-giving policy should let everyone know who you can give gifts to and who you can receive them from – especially when it comes to superiors, customers, vendors, and suppliers. It should also state what kinds of gifts are appropriate and which are prohibited. Your definition of appropriate holiday gifts for employees may be different from another workplace; however, it’s typically best to give gifts that show a genuine appreciation for your colleagues (and avoid gag gifts and/or gifts meant to tease someone).
Holiday Gift Ideas for Employees, From Employees
Generally, most company holiday gift exchanges happen laterally between colleagues at the same level in the org chart. A Secret Santa exchange with a reasonable price-per-gift limit (e.g. $25) is one way to ensure gift giving and receiving is equal.
- Make it personal, just not too personal. If you know the person you’re giving to, try to show them that you gave some thought to what they would like based on what you know about them. For example, if they love coffee, a new mug and gift card to their favorite coffee shop. A good book also makes a great gift. Stay away from anything too personal like jewelry, perfume or cologne, or articles of clothing (although accessories like a hat or scarf may be OK).
- Avoid things that are usually not allowed at work. Stay away from alcohol as a gift, and as mentioned before, don’t give any gag gifts or inappropriate presents. Also, stay away from anything that disparages your company or a particular department. Whatever you give, keep it professional, but thoughtful.
Employee Holiday Gift Ideas from Bosses
In this scenario, it's important to follow company policy and try to be as equitable as possible.
- Keep it professional; definitely not too personal. A good rule to follow is to give simple, work- or business-related gifts. For example, a motivational or inspirational book. Another nice idea is to offer everyone an extra PTO day or two around the holidays to shop, destress, or do whatever they need. Just keep in mind how your gift will be seen by others in the workplace, so make your gifts fair and not too extravagant.
- Give with no expectation to receive. There are a lot of pressures on your team during the holidays - in and outside of the workplace - so they don’t need the added pressure of what to give their boss. That said…
Holiday Gift Ideas for Employees to Give to Bosses
Yes, a boss should never expect a gift from their employees, but it is still OK for the employees to give something. Again, we stress that it’s important to keep it professional and not too personal. Honestly, your best bet is to pitch in as a team and give a group gift like a gift card for their favorite restaurant or store. Sharing the cost of a group gift can help your team afford something a bit nicer while keeping it professional.
How Much Should I Spend?
Once again, check your company policy as there may be a limit on what to spend for gifts. Otherwise, between $20-$50 is typically the sweet spot. For employees paid by the hour, one hour’s wage is usually a good benchmark. Remember, every colleague’s financial situation is unique, so no one should feel pressured to give a gift at all. Sometimes, a simple, heartfelt handwritten holiday card can make the most impact.
Gift giving in the workplace can be difficult to navigate, but if you keep things professional and respectful, you can help ensure a happier, less stressful holiday season for all.
For more tips on workplace etiquette during the holidays, reach out to your recruiter to request our guide, “Celebrate Like a Professional.”