I dread those Christmas work get-togethers where gifts are expected. After being self-employed for several years, I am back working in an office with several people reporting to me. Most of those who report to me are not close by. I go to those departments occasionally to check out what is going on.
Anyway, I’m the type of person who would prefer there be no gift exchange. It isn’t the money. There are two problems – I suck at picking out gifts. To make matters worse, I’ve been with this company only four months, and I hardly even know some of the people who work for me.
So, what should I get these people? They are all 40-62 in age if that matters. What do other Dopers do?
I never heard of bosses expected to give their underlings gifts - are you sure that’s the case? If so, you might try something easy and generic - give each one an ornament for their tree - maybe something representative of your company or the type of work you do?
What kind of gift exchange is it? Is it a “Secret Santa” type? Or one where gifts are selected and opened in order with the potential to “steal” previous gifts? What is the dollar limit for the gift?
Personally I find the gift exchange in our office fun, but we do a Secret Santa, so I am buying a present for a specific person which makes it easier usually.
After I posted, I realized you meant that you were buying presents for those who report to you. Have you considered asking someone at an equal level in the organization to you what they do about gifts? Failing that, I would go for gift certificates or gift cards if you are buying for a group of people where gifts can’t be personalized. I’ve done that in the past too.
I don’t know how much. It’s not secret Santa. I asked someone in a similar job, and was told all the big shots usually give something to their people. I’m a big shot with five people who are heads of other departments.
Hm, well I’d tend to go for gift certificates or cards of some description. Potentially you coul tailor the gift certificates based on your industry and/or profession. It’s difficult to suggest anything more without knowing any more.