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Best Gifts For Your Boss

Gigi Gastevich |
December 5, 2013 | 3:31 p.m. PST

Staff Reporter

Christmas gift politics are tricky business. This is true nowhere more than at the workplace, where office opportunism often turns gift-giving into a power play. Giving a gift to your boss can be risky. Some bosses see employees who do so as attempting to kiss up or expecting a gift (or favor or raise) in return.

Etiquette expert Emily Post says that generally, getting a present for your boss is not necessary. She suggests instead pooling your money with other coworkers to get your boss a bigger group present. However, others argue that getting your boss an individual gift can be perfectly appropriate, as long as the gift itself is appropriate. 

SEE ALSO: Best Presents For Your Best Friends

In general, the gift should be nice but impersonal. Today.com says that a good rule of thumb is to stay away from anything that touches the skin, such as jewelry, clothing, perfume/cologne, and spa products. Unless you're really good friends with your boss (and almost no one is), stay away from gifts that you think are funny or that you think will "fit their personality." You're going for nice, tasteful, and, frankly, bland.

The amount you should spend on the gift depends on your salary, but Today says that most people are safe within the $10 to $25 range. Some suggestions:

Polyvore, @geegeegeee.
Polyvore, @geegeegeee.

 

1. A small, cute bowl filled with candy (for example, Hershey Kisses) is a thoughtful and affordable gesture.

Anthropologie Inside Out Bowl, $8. Buy here.

2. A luxe snack box is a great treat for any boss, because it assumes absolutely nothing about their personality or your relationship.

Harry & David Snackbox, $19.95. Buy here.

3. A cozy scarf or winter gloves can be an exception to the no-clothes rule, provided that the scarf is a chunky cold-weather wrap (not a fashion scarf) in a neutral or dark jewel tone.

BP. Ribbed Infinity Scarf, $22. Buy here.

4. A festive candle in a pretty tin is appropriate--make sure the scent isn't ridiculously strong or weird. No "juicy hibiscus kiss" fragrances, please.

Illume Balsam & Cedar Candle, $19. Buy here.

5. A pretty mug is a good bet too--bonus points for pairing it with some quality hot chocolate mix or coffee beans.

Jonathan Adler Carnaby Vertabrae Mug, $18. Buy here.

6. A nice pen is always a winner--stick to black or grey for a man, or go more adventurous with a pretty bright color for a woman.

Retro 1951 Tornado Rollerball, $20.21. Buy here.

 

Don't feel obligated to get your boss a gift, but if you have a good relationship with him or her and truly want to, doing so can be a nice way to show your appreciation for the work they do. Avoid boxers and lingerie and you should be just fine.

Gigi Gastevich is a Staff Reporter who likes to shop online. Say hi to her here.



 

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