Sometimes the corporate world can come off as a sterile, emotionless environment because of how cut-throat it can be. Many pleasantries are a thing of the past in today’s modern business word as things become more and more digital and disconnected from individuals. One such tradition is that of holiday gift-giving. What with an increasingly politically-correct work atmosphere and a lack of old values, many corporations are veering away from the annual gift giving the holiday season brings.
Especially as a new hire, it can be hard to know what your office does for the holidays and to find out with enough time to prepare before the holidays arrive. Should you be getting gifts for everybody? Is that what they typically do there? Some offices do a Secret Santa, others throw a holiday party, and some don’t celebrate any holidays at all. It’s good to find out what is appropriate for your office as some companies restrict exchanges like holiday gift-giving.
Once you know what is acceptable for your corporate environment, you must become aware of the additional guidelines for appropriate gift-giving. Look at what gift you’re giving, the cost and implication of said gift(s), your relationship with the recipient, etc. While giving and receiving gifts for the holidays can be fun, many offices have strict expectations for their gifting etiquette. Keep in mind, it is almost always appropriate to give corporate coworkers seasons greetings cards to wish them well during the holidays.