Gift exchanges or Gift-giving is a big part of the holiday season.

While people typically exchange gifts with relatives and close friends, it's not uncommon for coworkers to exchange gifts as well.  

Office gift exchanges are not as simple as giving gifts to friends and family members. Gifts that might be entirely appropriate to give to relatives and friends may raise eyebrows if given to coworkers.  Some categories may be more appropriate than others to find the right item to give. Gift exchanges categories like: pens, journals, ornaments with each co-workers name are just a few.  To avoid awkward situations, professionals can consider the following tips before purchasing gifts for coworkers.

· Contact your human resources department. Many companies have established protocols that govern office gift exchanges. Some may prohibit present-giving altogether, while others may place dollar limits on gifts or restrict gifts to certain items, such as food or gift cards. Contact human resources before organizing an exchange or purchasing gifts to ensure you don't violate company rules.

· Keep it simple. Even if your office has no rules governing exchanging presents, keeping things simple and placing a dollar limit on giving can avoid hurt feelings and awkward situations. No one expects an elaborate present from a coworker, so something as simple as a $20 gift card should suffice.

· Reach a consensus regarding gifts for supervisors. Discuss exchanges with your coworkers before purchasing gifts for supervisors. Workplace environments can become awkward and uncomfortable if one person appears to have spent more on a supervisor than his or her coworkers. When gifting supervisors, decide on a dollar amount that everyone is comfortable with and agree to only purchase gifts for a supervisor if everyone can afford to do so. Someone may not be able to afford the exchange, and that person should not be made to feel bad.

· Supervisors must think before buying gifts as well. Supervisors who intend to buy for their subordinates also must take steps to avoid potentially awkward situations. Giving the same present, such as gift cards to local stores and restaurants, will avoid giving the impression that you're playing favorites.

Office gift-giving is common during the holiday season. Such exchanges should be handled delicately and be respectful of everyone in the office.

Here's a gift idea we're sure you're coworkers will enjoy:

You can also contact us for custom orders. We'll help you great the perfect gift for everyone in your office.  Contact Us!