Gift Ideas For Co-Workersby Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger 17 Dec 2006 03:00 PM What do a stuffed rattlesnake, a stained potholder, a bag of frozen potatoes, a statute of Cher, and a partridge in a pear tree have in common? Okay, nix the bird in the tree, and you've got the makings of a list of the oddest gifts given to co-workers by fellow co-workers during office present swaps. According to a recent survey of 250 advertising and marketing executives, the most off-the-wall office gifts tend to raise questions about the givers holiday spirit. No kidding. We went through an entire list of them in my previous blog, but I failed to mention the gifts some of those surveyed listed as "wacky yet thoughtful." For example, a segment of those quizzed said they received live animals as gifts from their colleagues. Experts say even though the holidays can be a lonely time for some people, they may not enjoy the company of a wild turkey, or a pig, or sea monkeys, or even a goat. Other workers surveyed said they used the holidays as a time to give subtle hints - or not so subtle--in the case of the employee who was given a treadmill and a personal training session. So what should you give to someone in an office setting that won't make you look cheap, insensitive, thoughtless, or self-centered? Experts say generally, it's best not to get too outrageous with your gift-giving ideas. You should aim to give presents that are thoughtful and can be enjoyed by the recipient. Another tip: Think small-in price and scale. Some of the best gifts are ones that are homemade. Baked goods or other small tokens of appreciation are always appropriate and tend to be greatly appreciated by the recipient. As for price, unless you are mandated to spend a certain amount of money there's no reason to purchase an extravagant present for someone you barely know. Also, remember to be practical. Look for gifts the recipient can use throughout the year. For example, an organizational kit for the home office or basic kitchen gadgets that you can never have enough of (measuring cups, whisks, etc.) And, once you've found the perfect gift don't forget the details. A gift has more of an impact if it's packaged nicely and comes with a thoughtful note. Related Articles: Office Party Etiquette---Seven Tips To Preserve Your Professional Image The Office Christmas Party---To Go Or Not To Go Why You Shouldn't Slack-On The Job-Around The Holidays Top 15 Unusual Excuses For Not Showing Up To Work Learn more about Michele Cheplic  Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism. Relevantemployment tags User Comments  QueenAngie Central Illinois, USA (60086) 17 Dec 2006 06:02 PMMichele, that is a great topic for holiday gift giving these next few weeks. Things not to give the boss: deodorant, toothpaste & toothbrush, intimate apparel, socks, if they are diabetic - a box of chocolate candy or fudge, if they have high blood pressure - salty huge can of popcorn, and more. Better be on the safe side and give a gift that is universally enjoyed. Gift certificates to restaurants, plants, charitable gift to the charity of their own choice, or home baked goods are always appropriate & acceptable.  Michele Cheplic (37349) 18 Dec 2006 04:45 AMQA--Thanks for the comment and the great suggestions! Have a great holiday!! Community Tags co-workers, Gifts, holiday gifts, office, office party Discuss this article
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