If you work in a corporate setting, there are many reasons that you may want to give your boss an executive gift, but finding just the right one can be quite problematic. Gift-giving, when you only know one aspect of the person, can be tricky, but by following a few simple guidelines, you’ll be sure that you can make the right choice. It is possible to be both friendly and professional, and just because you’ve seen people trip on that fine line doesn’t mean that you have to as well!
The first thing that you need to do is to think about your boss as a person apart from the job. This does not mean that you will end up getting him something that is completely divorced from the job; instead this will help you figure out what sort of gift he is likely to enjoy. Is he constantly stressed and under a lot of pressure, or is she more relaxed and takes everything with a smile? Does she like working in pressure cooker conditions or does he like to keep things pleasant and calm for everyone? Avoid thinking of this as a problem you need to solve for them (getting a busy an executive a stress ball might be construed negatively, for example) and more as a way to learn about what they are interested in.
One thing that many people can appreciate is gadgetry, so if it is appropriate and in your price range, you might want to consider things like Blackberries, PDAs, and GPS devices. These can be quite high end items, so choose carefully and make sure that the gift won’t make your employer nervous or apprehensive. A gift of this type is usually meant for a boss that you greatly appreciate, so make sure that you feel comfortable enough with this person to give them a gift like this.
Something that many people do is take a look around their boss’s cubicle and try to think about what would be appropriate given the pictures involved there. If he or she has calenders of cats, for example, a framed piece of feline artwork or a small figurine might be nice. Office gifts that play to your boss’s hobbies is also a good idea. A golfer can always use more golf balls, and someone who appreciates nice chocolate will never say no to an artfully wrapped gift basket.
One standard gift that people often give their boss’s relate to their boss’s families. The next time you’re in your boss’s office, take a look around. Does he have teenage sons, or very young daughters? Some people like the idea of giving board games, while others simply try to find things like foods and candies that would appeal to the whole family. When you are looking for a great way to show your boss that you care, showing that you have paid attention to his or her family is a great way to do so. Including a card where you address the whole family by name can also be a great finishing touch to this sort of gift.
No matter what you give your boss, whether unique desk accessories or a handmade card from the heart, make sure that you give it cheerfully and that it shows that you have been paying attention!
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November 7th, 2008 at 11:08 pm
We done a secret santa last year and i got my boss, lol just got him some aftershave! Easy ah!?
January 14th, 2009 at 12:00 pm
Thank you for sharing your guidelines to choose perfect executive gifts and personalized gifts as well.