The Do’s and Don’ts of Gift Giving at Work
Holiday gifting at work can feel tricky. Should you buy for your boss? How much should you spend? And what counts as thoughtful but not too personal? Here’s a quick guide to workplace gift etiquette to help you navigate the season and give with confidence.
At MySanta, we see thousands of employee wishlists every year — from interns and remote workers to seasoned managers. That gives us a unique window into what people actually want to receive during the holidays. With that insight, we’ve pulled together practical tips and ideas to make gift giving at work simple, stress-free, and fun.
But first, let’s clear up a few common questions about workplace gifting.
Why Gift Giving Matters in the Workplace
In the workplace, gifts are more than just pleasant gestures. They are an important part of corporate culture, fostering trust and reinforcing a sense of community. Here’s why it’s worth giving gifts to colleagues, managers, and employees.
Reasons to Give Gifts to Colleagues
If you’re wondering whether to give a small present to a coworker, here are three good reasons:
- Express appreciation — a gift can say thank you for support and teamwork.
- Maintain good relationships — regular exchanges help prevent tension or misunderstandings.
- Boost team spirit — a thoughtful gift reinforces a sense of belonging to the group.
Should You Give a Gift to Your Boss?
While people usually feel comfortable giving gifts to colleagues, they often hesitate when it comes to bosses. Concerns range from crossing professional boundaries to worrying the gift might be misinterpreted.
But giving a small, thoughtful present to a boss is acceptable — and even encouraged — when it’s about showing gratitude or building warmer professional relationships.
Why Companies Should Give Gifts to Employees
Corporate gifts positively influence company image and workplace culture. Here’s what they achieve:
- Boost motivation — small tokens lift spirits and inspire employees to reach new goals.
- Show care — gifts demonstrate management’s appreciation and concern for staff.
- Encourage team bonding — shared traditions create a friendlier, more united workplace.
- Increase brand visibility — branded merchandise doubles as long-term company promotion.
General Rules for Choosing Gifts
No matter who the recipient is, follow these guidelines:
- Consider the recipient’s interests — find out about hobbies or preferences before choosing.
- Avoid overly personal items — skip gifts that might feel too intimate.
- Balance price and relationship — not too lavish, not too cheap; keep it appropriate.
- Respect corporate culture — gifts should reflect company values (eco-friendly, health-conscious, etc.).
Practical and Professional Gift Options
Here are five safe, go-to gifts you can give to coworkers, your boss, or your team without worry
Office Supplies
High-quality notebooks, pens, or desk organizers are useful and professional.
Tea and Coffee Sets
A universal choice — always handy at work or at home.
Books
Nonfiction, business titles, or literary classics make thoughtful gifts that look professional.
Gadgets
Portable chargers, desk humidifiers, wireless chargers, flash drives, and similar items that simplify daily routines are always appreciated.
Gift Cards
A convenient option that works even at the last minute.
Gifts to Avoid in the Workplace
Some presents are best left out of the office gift exchange, as they can create awkward situations. Here’s what you should avoid:
Personal items. Perfume, clothing, or cosmetics may come across as too intimate and make the recipient uncomfortable.
Alcohol. Even though bottles of wine or liquor are often given as gifts, they can be received poorly by certain colleagues or managers.
Humorous gifts. Gag gifts and jokes don’t always translate well. What one person finds funny may offend another, so it’s safer to skip them in a professional setting.
How to Receive Gifts with Grace
Business etiquette doesn’t require opening gifts immediately. It’s perfectly fine to simply thank the giver sincerely and open the present later. Afterward, you can send a short thank-you email or message to share your appreciation.
When receiving a gift, avoid over-the-top reactions, but don’t be too reserved either — even if the gift wasn’t what you hoped for. Express gratitude warmly, and if it’s common in your team, share the joy with colleagues.
How to Make Gift Giving at Work Easier
Secret Santa is a simple way to take the pressure out of workplace gift giving — no more awkward moments or worrying about whether you spent the right amount. The game has become a favorite in many offices, not just during Christmas but around other holidays too. Over time, fun variations have popped up with names like “Secret Pal” or “White Elephant”.
But whatever the name, the idea stays the same: an anonymous exchange of gifts. Each person becomes a Santa, secretly preparing a surprise for someone else. In the end, everyone gets a present — and a dose of holiday cheer.
Secret Santa can be played the traditional way or online. Either way, the rules are easy to follow.
Traditional Secret Santa
In the classic version, everyone gathers in one place, writes their name on a slip of paper, and drops it into a hat or a box. Each person draws a name at random and becomes the Secret Santa for that colleague.
The gifts are bought in advance and brought to the office for the holiday celebration. The golden rule is simple: Santas stay anonymous until the very end.
Online Secret Santa
A digital service like MySanta makes the game even easier — and a lot more fun. Participants are matched automatically, and each person gets a notification by email or message with the name of the colleague they’re buying for.
The platform also includes anonymous chats so Santas can ask questions without revealing themselves, personal wishlists that help avoid awkward presents, and even integrated gift shops for quick ideas. If the game is played remotely, organizers can track deliveries, set up exceptions, and manage the whole process with just a few clicks.
Final Thoughts
Workplace gift giving requires thoughtfulness, balance, and awareness of company culture. By keeping in mind the recipient’s interests, professional boundaries, and etiquette norms, you can avoid awkward moments and create meaningful holiday connections.
With these simple tips, your gifts will not only delight colleagues but also strengthen relationships, improve morale, and foster a positive atmosphere in the workplace.
