Latest "Etiquette Edge" Posts
March 5, 2019
Organizing an upcoming meeting? In today’s busy world everyone is multi-tasking; juggling both personal and work-life. With more and more meetings on our agenda, sometimes its difficult to get anything accomplished!
It doesn’t have to be that way though. With a little preparation, meetings can be very useful and productive. Here are seven tips that not only help you take control, but make sure it’s productive and is a valuable use of your time and that of others.
- Get to the Point
Identify the reason for the meeting. Does your department need to be updated on a new company initiative? Is there a problem that needs solving? Is input necessary from various stakeholders to solve a recurring problem or issue? Most importantly, before you set up a meeting, make sure a meeting is required. Can it be resolved via email or a quick face to face with another staff member? Whatever the reason for the meeting, knowing ahead of time what the purpose is ensures a more productive meeting.
- Who needs to be there?
The outcome of Step 1 will determine who needs to attend the meeting. Identify any key decision-makers and staff members that need to be informed (as part of their role) and anybody that will be involved in implementing a deliverable. If you are new to the firm and have not yet met all the attendees face to face, get familiar with their position in the firm and with their background.
- Book it Danno!
Determine the size of the space required and book the room well in advance. Make sure it can accommodate the number of people attending and it has the necessary technology (could be you need a phone or just a mic) access to any AV equipment required. If the attendees will be participating in a virtual setting,test the equipment ahead of time so that everyone can see and hear properly.
- Let’s Talk about it
Draft a suggested agenda that outlines the time and place, purpose of the meeting, attendees, assigned roles and objectives. Determine if any supporting documentation is required and who needs to supply it.
- Presentation Templates
If there is a company presentation template available, provide it to any attendees that will be presenting. For some great resources, see my blog post from January 31, 2019, “Eight Helpful Resources to spark your creativity”.
- Get the word out
Email the agenda along with any supporting documentation to the key participants for comments or questions at least one week ahead. Post the meeting on any team-sharing digital calendar if one exists.
- Ready, Set Go!
On the day of the meeting, print agendas and documentation for all the participants. Sometimes this is digital for those wanting to save paper and be green. Take care of any last-minute details such as coffee and equipment, etc. Lastly, as meeting chair, arrive 15 minutes early to make sure the room is all set up and ready to go!Soon: How to run a meeting using Roberts Rules of Order.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Uncategorized, Business Etiquette, Communication and tagged meeting, meetings, office
February 17, 2019
What is the first thing that comes to mind when someone says the word ‘family’? Consulting a dictionary tells us that the definition of family is, “a group consisting of parents and children living together in a household”. A second definition is, “all the descendants of a common ancestor”. However, as our we enter the 21st century, the definition starts to take on a much broader scope.
The Modern Family
Families today come in a variety of shapes, sizes, ethnicities and genders. Perhaps it’s time to re-engineer what the word means. As per the TV show ‘Modern Family’, today’s family truly defies the traditional meaning. Today it could mean single parent households, multi-generational, a child-less couple, same-gender couples with children, and couples with adopted children to name a few. Gone are the days of ‘Leave it to Beaver’ where the only concept of family is a mother and father with two children. Today’s meaning is much more open and inclusive.
Sometimes though, the bonds you create with people in your life can be just as important as blood relatives. Families can be chosen too. We all know the saying, “you can choose your friends, but you can’t choose your family”. But I think you can. Your family can be the people in your life that you want to consider as family.
Human beings are social creatures and families are very important to our social structure. They add stability, financial security, happiness, emotional security and a general feeling of belonging and well being. Communities benefit from the family unit as it is relieved of the burden of supporting people who need the extra help.
Let’s look at the 2nd definition of family. Our prehistoric ancestors were also very social. The caveman version of family was a tribal unit. They lived in a very communal setting and quite often traveled together as a unit to seek alternative living areas when the seasons dictated. Research indicates that these ancient tribal communities were polygamous, and children were raised in a much more communal-style setting. Some social anthropologists would agree that human beings as a species are not meant to be monogamous.
The Mother of everyone Alive Today
Ever heard of “Mitochondrial Eve”? Anthropological scientists believe all humans alive share a common ancestry. We carry evidence of this ancestry in our DNA. We all carry a 47th chromosome that resides in the mitochondria which is also found in an unbroken line of matriarchal ancestors stretching back to Africa. Scientists have identified this ancestor from 150,000 years ago as being related to all of us. She is the mother of everyone alive today. This woman is Mitochondrial Eve. In the truest scientific sense, we are truly all family.
Some of you are lucky enough to be living in a country or provinces/states that have a designated national Family Day like in Canada, South Africa, Vietnam and Uruguay to name a few. No matter what your definition of family is, make the time to spend it with the people you love and care about. What could you be doing with your family? Skiing and snowboarding at your local ski resort? Sleeping in and enjoying a nice brunch? Spending time together hiking a local trail with your family members and family pet? Whatever it is you choose to do, no matter who you do it with, you will be spending it with family. Guaranteed.
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Posted by Margaret Page in A Page of Insight, Just for Fun and tagged Family, families, love
February 6, 2019
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and many of you are probably planning a romantic night for your loved one. Valentine’s Day means different things to different people – depending on how long you’ve been together and how serious the relationship is. Traditionally, it means chocolate, flowers or a romantic evening out at an upscale restaurant. This time-honoured tradition can usually fit into most budgets but planning a romantic evening can also be memorable if you consider what your partner really enjoys but does not get to do as often as they like.
Planning a personalized Valentine’s Day outing shows that you took the time to organize a day or night out that is meaningful to them. Cooking his favourite meal with soft music playing in the background is very romantic. Make the evening special by getting dressed up, lighting some candles and setting the table with your best china. Perhaps a picnic in the park with her favourite dishes and a nice bottle of wine followed up by activity she enjoys like cycling or visiting an antique market nearby. Handmade cards and love letters tucked in the picnic basket would be a great hit! E-cards by Hallmark and Blue Mountain are also a good option. Just keep the presents like that new car battery for another occasion!
If you choose to go the traditional
route of dining out, keep these tips in mind:
- Make reservations early: If you have a favourite restaurant
that you would like to take your romantic partner to then don’t wait until the
last minute to book that reservation. Chances are that if it’s your favourite,
then it’s other peoples as well as you don’t want to be caught having nowhere
to share your special evening.
- Be on time: Valentine’s Day is not the time to be
late. Make sure you are on time to pick up your date or be on time at the
restaurant.
- Turn your cell phones off: It goes without saying that you should
always give your date your undivided attention, and most especially on such a
romantic day as Valentine’s Day. Turn your cell phones off—and leave them off
the table–so you’re not tempted to check sports scores during dinner or your
favourite food blog!
- Mind your table manners: As with any time you’re sharing a meal
with someone, be sure to bring along your best table manners. Chewing with your
mouth open or shoveling food into your mouth is NOT romantic. Place your napkin
with the fold towards your body and keep the used side between the fold.
- Fine Dining Knowledge: If you are at a five-star restaurant
for the first time, perhaps check out the menu ahead of time. This is
especially true if it’s a cuisine that you are unfamiliar with or the menu has
items written in French! Not only will you learn about any signature dishes,
but taking that extra step learning how to pronounce the menu items will earn
you extra bonus points with your date and show that you took the time to do so.
- For the men: Remember the simple things, like
opening the door for her, helping her with her coat, and pulling out her chair
for her if the wait staff don’t do it for her.
- Who pays? Many women are still looking for
that knight in shining armor–chivalry is desirable. However, modern etiquette
dictates that whoever extended the invitation should be the one picking up the
tab.
If there is not currently a romantic
partner in your life, you can always participate in this year’s Random Acts of
Kindness Day on Feb 17, 2019 . There are various categories you can choose from to
pass along kindness to others.
Wishing you all a very happy (and romantic) Valentine’s Day! Do you have a favorite Valentine’s Day memory you’d like to share? We’d love to hear it!
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Posted by Margaret Page in Valentines Day, Dining Etiquette, Etiquette Tips
January 31, 2019
In public speaking or business presentations, passive is passé — but it can be tough to break out of a creative rut and find just the right phrase or hook to keep your audience engaged. Fresh ideas can be a challenge!
That’s why I’m always looking for new presentation resources that will help get the creative juices flowing. Recently, these eight websites have been my go-to sites for extra inspiration and fun.
One Look: This is a one-stop shop for just about any word you can think of. Type in “bluebird,” for example, and you’ll get a list of definitions from 29 sources, plus a list of what the word means in various industries, professions, and casual situations (tech, medicine — even slang). You’ll also get synonyms, rhyming words, usage examples, and more.
The Noun Project: I think this website is so much fun! Type in any word and The Noun Project will match your word with an icon. I like to use them for PowerPoint presentations — much more useful and unexpected than standard clip art.
SlideBean: SlideBean is a godsend if you struggle to create professional presentations — and it’s a wonderfully intuitive alternative to struggling through PowerPoint. Choose a professionally designed template, create your slide deck, and then share it with your team. You can even ask one of SlideBean’s designers for feedback and assistance or to revamp an existing slide deck. The first presentation is free, but the pricing is reasonable after that.
Art Skills: This is a great resource if you’re creating posters or flip charts. You’ll find products like stickers, craft kits, even lights designed specifically for posters!
Rhymer.com: Rhymes are great for developing memorable turns of phrase. Rhymer.com offers ideas for any type of rhyme you might need: end rhymes like blue/shoe, last-syllable rhymes like timber/harbor, double rhymes like conviction/prediction, and more.
Title Generator and Portent’s Content Idea Generator: I like to use these sites when I’m stumped for ideas. You need only one keyword to produce hundreds of title options in seconds.
Trainers Warehouse: Even professional trainers can find it difficult to create tools and icebreakers that are fun and meaningful. Trainers Warehouse solves that problem with thousands of games, awards, toys, and other teamwork- and recognition-building supplies.
1,000 Best Clean Jokes from Reader’s Digest: This site is a great resource to stimulate humorous thinking, even if you’re not looking to add jokes to your speeches and presentations. You’ll discover riddles, one-liners, and many more.
What are your favorite presentation resources for spurring creativity? Let me know in the comments below.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Uncategorized, Newsletters, Business Etiquette, Communication and tagged Creativity, Resources, Presentations, Reports
January 24, 2019
Now that you have done all the preparation for your interview using the tips from our blog post on Preparation Is Key for Interviews, make sure you know how to make yourself stand out and shine during the actual interview.
Interview Tips:
- Stand when introduced to the #interviewer and do not sit down until invited to do so.
- Try to connect with the interviewer on a personal level at the beginning of the interview if the opportunity arises. “Is that your daughter’s university graduation photo? What school did she attend?” Establishing a personal connection right at the onset of the interview allows for some commonality and starts things off on a positive tone.
- Place your belongings on the floor, not the table or desk.
- Retrieve information quickly and easily in a well organized purse or portfolio. After all, spilling your private belongings across the desk is the antithesis of class. In case a 2nd staff member is asked to join the interview process, have a 2nd resume handy.
- During the interview, show interest, confidence and deference. Always have 2 to 3 questions prepared to ask your interviewer about the position or the firm. This ensures that you come across interested in the position you are being interviewed for and want to learn more.
- Anticipate the most common questions and have answers prepared. Practice them with a friend first.
- If you need a minute or two to compose and answer, it is perfectly acceptable to ask the interviewer for a couple of minutes to think about the question properly and formulate your answer.
- Stay focused. Don’t fidget, repeat yourself or move objects around.
- If you are in a panel interview, place full attention on the person speaking. When you answer, make sure you make eye contact with all the interviewers.
- If you find yourself in an online/virtual interview situation, test your background first using a variety of platforms to make sure your face is lit properly and there are no shadows. Wear contrasting clothing to your background and make sure the background ties in with who you are. Be cautious about what you are drinking.
- Follow your host’s lead if you are being interviewed over a meal. Don’t order any alcohol, unless you are interviewing with an alcohol-related company.
- Compensation package. Quite often, compensation is mentioned in the job description; especially if the job is in the public sector or appears on Indeed. If not, consensus indicates waiting until the end of the 2nd interview to ask. If another job offer is on the table and you need to make a decision, then don’t be afraid to ask. Just make sure you have done your research. If asked for a range, provide a realistic one and be prepared to explain why you should be at the higher end. Essentially, be realistic but confident in what it is you want.
- No matter what: never criticize a former employer.
- Lastly, be honest and sincere. Employers are generally more concerned with finding employees that are the right fit with the organization since training and education can always be provided while on the job.
Post Interview
When the interview comes to a close, be sure to request a card from your interviewer(s) so you can send a handwritten ‘thank you’ note within 48 hours. In the note, be positive and genuine, and if appropriate, refer to something that was discussed in the interview.
Social grace under pressure, specifically, the intense pressure of an interview, always makes a strong impression. It implies a certain degree of personal power, insight and self control, uncommon qualities that any employer would value.
It will give you the “etiquette edge” you need to ace your next job interview!
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Posted by Margaret Page in Interviews, Uncategorized, Business Etiquette, Communication and tagged career, job offer, interview etiquette, Employer, Job Search, job hunt
January 18, 2019
Competition is fierce in today’s job market. Quite often, job seekers find themselves competing with up to 100 other people, hoping to be short-listed for the interviews.
That’s why it takes more than just skills and education to land a great job. Qualifications can get you an interview – but class can get you the job. Get properly prepared for the interview using these important tips:
- Research your potential employer, the industry, and any recent developments or initiatives. Commit a few key facts to memory and mention them when the opportunity appears.
- Learn what you can about the interviewer(s). Study their social media profiles if you can to find out more about their background, interests and employment history. Find some commonality!
- Select your outfit the day before, making sure it is clean, pressed, fits well and flatters. Refrain from wearing anything low cut, short, tight. If you’re unsure about the dress code, dress “up” rather than “down” (i.e., dress a more formal way rather than a more casual way).
- Be freshly groomed, including nails, hair and face – and remember, no fragrances.
- Make sure the vehicle you drive to yours interviews is clean. Some employers view how you maintain your car as a reflection of how you’ll take care of their tools or equipment.
- Familiarize yourself with your destination so you are sure to arrive as scheduled.
- Arrive early enough to make a quick stop at the rest room to check your hair, teeth, and clothing.
- This is a given, but make sure you know your resume inside and out.
- Use the product/service ahead of time if this is appropriate.
Each step sets you up to feel relaxed and confident when the pressure is on. Interviews will be much easier to get through if you are prepared.
Next week: Sharpen Your Interview Skills
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Posted by Margaret Page in Interviews, Business Etiquette, Communication, Etiquette Tips and tagged Employer, compensation, Job Search, Interview, Jobs, Employment
January 11, 2019
Trying to lose those extra holiday pounds from all the seasonal holiday parties and events? You are not alone! Health clubs and gyms are busier than ever. If you are new to the gym, or it’s been a while, here are some gym etiquette tips to consider that will make your workout more meaningful and productive.
So what’s the biggest etiquette pet peeve of a typical gym-goer? Leaving the equipment sweaty.
No one wants to grip the handlebars of an elliptical machine only to find it damp and slippery! My best advice is to bring your own personal towel with you and wipe down the machines when you’re finished. Put your towel on a bench where possible. If you don’t have a towel, know where the paper towels are located and take some with you before you begin your routine. Many gyms have spray bottles filled with cleaning solution and encourage members to take the time to clean up after themselves.
I was at a class recently and the instructor was wearing a sweaty handkerchief on his head. My first thought was, “Gross.” But then I realized that he was actually using good manners by wearing the headband. It was a vigorous class and by wearing the handkerchief on his head, all the sweat was absorbed in the fabric, instead of tossed around at the class!
Other gym protocols include:
- Wear appropriate workout Attire. Gym clothing that is explicit and exposes the front or the back is unacceptable. Secondly, make sure your attire is freshly laundered ~ nobody wants to small last week’s workout on you.
- Put your cell phone away. Respect those around you by leaving your cell phone in the car or your handbag when working out. Some health clubs and gyms have regulations against bringing your phones inside—especially since we have camera phones now! Leave the selfie for your next party instead.
- Take turns on the equipment. Set yourself a timer if the gym is extra busy. Be aware of others who are waiting to use the equipment. Don’t linger close to another gym patron hoping they will get the hint and move to another station.
- Unless you are staff or a personal trainer, don’t offer advice. Nobody wants to be told they are using equipment incorrectly. If another patron asks you something specific, that’s one thing, but don’t offer unsolicited suggestions.
- Avoid staring. Gyms are usually full of people with nice physiques who have taken good care of themselves. Try not to stare ~ focus on yourself and your routine.
- Return weights/equipment back where they belong. When you’re through with your weight lifting routine, put the dumbbells (or other equipment) back in their proper place. Not only is it good etiquette but helps staff to keep things more organized.
- Skip the perfume. Many people are sensitive to particular fragrances. In close quarters, like the gym, keep it clean and fresh. A little deodorant goes a long way!
- Share the water fountain.You need to stay hydrated when working out, but if your water bottle needs refilling, let people who are waiting for a quick sip go ahead of you.
- Keep the volume down. Exercising to the sounds of your latest music downloads is fun—and it makes the time go by so much faster—but not everyone wants to hear your latest playlist. Ensure you are using earbuds during your workout.
- Be on time. If a class has already started, you’re too late. If you have to leave early, notify your instructor in advance and slip out quietly.
Going to the gym should be an invigorating experience—not an aggravating one. Be courteous of other members at all times to make the gym experience pleasant for you and for fellow gym-goers.
Happy training!
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Posted by Margaret Page in Etiquette Tips, Everyday Etiquette and tagged Gym, Workout
December 11, 2018
Christmas cards are big business. Nearly 2 billion holiday cards will be purchased, addressed and mailed this Christmas season alone. From family, friends, and neighbors to work associates, clients and customers, virtually everyone is caught in the holiday card frenzy whether they celebrate the season or not.
But, like any type of correspondence, there are a few etiquette rules that apply when sending out those winter greetings. Here are a few tips from the experts:
For Friends and Family:
Even if you are using pre-printed holiday cards for both personal and business use, it’s important to always sign your name below the printed version and write a small handwritten note inside to make the recipient feel as if you truly thought of them this holiday season. When signing for the entire family, always begin with the father’s name, followed by the mother’s and finally he children, or simply write “John, Mary and Family.”
When sending a card to a couple or family with two different last names, always address the card to both people: John Smith and Mary Jones, or the entire family as in Mary Jones, John Smith and Family. And, always include the children’s name inside every family card.
For Business Associates:
Always mail cards to business associates to the office unless you have met their spouse and met with them socially at some point during the year. Then the cards may be addressed to both and sent to their home.
When sending a card to a married woman who uses her maiden name at work, always address the card to Mr. and Mrs. (using her married name), if she uses her husband’s name personally. If, however, she only uses her maiden name, it is acceptable to address the card to both using both recipients full names.
Business cards should always be written in a more formal and secular style. Never sign your spouse’s name unless the recipient has met them in a social gathering. And never, under any circumstances send your personal family newsletter to business associates.
Finally, even if you are sending out hundreds of holiday cards to a variety of business associates, never use bulk mail. Always send them first class.
Special Circumstances:
Every time you send out a holiday greeting, you mean well. Unfortunately, sometimes your good intentions may be misunderstood. To avoid any etiquette slips remember these important tips:
-When sending a card to someone with a different ethnic or religious background, choose a more secular card that is free of religious undertones. For those who don’t celebrate the holidays at all, opt for a winter scene card with a basic Season’s Greetings, Happy Holidays or message of Peace.
-In the event your recipient’s are grieving the loss of a loved one this year, take special care to find a card that specifically deals with holiday grief. They’ll appreciate your extra thoughtfulness and assure them that their loved one has not been forgotten this holiday season. Also, when sending a card to a recent widow, always address her as “Mrs. So and so to make her feel less alone.
The 8 Rules of Business Greeting Card Etiquette
Buy Quality Cards: Start with a good quality business greeting card to show that you value your clients and colleagues. Skimping on your selection can be interpreted in a number of ways. Your recipients might take it as a sign that business has not been good or that they aren’t worth a little investment.
Update Your List: Make sure your list is up-to-date with correct names and addresses. If you do this on a regular basis, it does not become a dreaded holiday chore. As you gain new contacts throughout the year, take time to add them to your database for your business greeting card group. This way you won’t embarrass yourself by sending the card to the old address.
Sign Cards Personally: Even if you have pre-printed information on the business greeting card such as your name, you need to add your handwritten signature. The most elegant business greeting cards should have your personal signature and a short handwritten message.
Handwrite the Address: If you are ready to throw up your hands at this point and forget the whole project, then have someone else address the envelopes for you. Don’t use computer-generated labels. They are impersonal and make your holiday wishes look like a mass mailing. You may save time and even money, but can lose a client in the process.
Mail to Home Address: Mail your business greeting card to the home if you know the small business owner. Be sure to include the spouse’s name. The card is not sent to both husband and wife at the business address unless they both work there.
Use Titles: Whether you are addressing the envelope to an individual or a couple, titles should always be used. It’s “Mr. John Doe,” not “John Doe,” or “Mr. and Mrs. John Doe, rather that “John and Mary Doe.”
Be Sensitive to Traditions: Find out whether your business greeting card recipients observe Christmas, Hanukah, or Kwanzaa. Make sure your message is appropriate for each individual. If you decide to go with one card, choose a generic one that will not offend. “Season’s Greetings” and “Happy Holidays” are safe bets.
Avoid the Mail Rush: Mail your business greeting cards in time to arrive for the designated holiday. If you find yourself addressing the envelopes on Super Bowl Sunday, keep the cards until next year and send out a high-quality note thanking people for their business during the previous year instead. To avoid the last minute greeting rush is to have all your envelopes addressed before Thanksgiving. Then during December you can leisurely write a short message – one or two lines are all that is necessary on each card, sign your name and have them in the mail with a minimum of hassle.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Christmas, Etiquette Tips and tagged Christmas, Christmas Cards, Gain Confidence, Class and Communication Skills with Etiquette Products
December 5, 2018
It’s that time of year again. Holiday office party season is in full swing and even though the word “party” is in the phrase, it’s important to remember that holiday office parties are still business functions.
To ensure that you’re not afraid to face your co-workers the next day, here are a few office party etiquette tips to keep in mind:
Do accept the invitation
The first piece of advice when it comes to holiday office parties is this: Go! Your absence will be noticed!
Know what to wear
It can be tough to strike the right balance between festive and appropriate when it comes to what to wear to the office party, however, the time, location and details on the invitation will give you a sense of what to wear.
For example: If your boss is hosting an “Ugly Sweater Party,” then the answer to that question is pretty simple. But, if your company is hosting an evening party at a local hotel or restaurant, formal attire is more appropriate. And ladies, this is not the time to show off your cleavage. Keep it simple and classy. Whatever you choose to wear will reflect on you professionally. When in doubt, ask your host or hostess about the event’s dress code.
Eating
So that you’re not spending all your time at the snack table, my advice is to have a light snack before the party. This is also helpful if you plan on drinking at the party. When at the party, use common sense when it comes to filling (or over-filling your plate) — the hors d’oevre plate will give you an indication of how much to eat. You’re there for business, not for the food.
Drinking
If you drink alcohol at the party, know your limits. Or set yourself a cap of just one drink for the evening and then switch to a non-alcoholic drink. I always tell people this, “Drink half as much, and you’ll have twice as much fun.” Remember, you’re at a work function and even a small amount of alcohol can loosen your inhibitions and lead you to do things you may regret the next day. Make sure you have planned how you are getting home after the event if you have a drink or two; like pre-arranging for a cab or your local ride-sharing company. If your employer is large enough, they may even allow you to expense your fare.
Conversations
This is a good time to get to know people you don’t work with on a daily basis, so mingle. Avoid excessive “work” talk and keep conversations friendly and upbeat. Have a few topics up your sleeve – and avoid politics and religion, as a rule. Remember to not indulge in office ‘gossip’.
Pause before you post
Remember those days when “what happened in Vegas, stayed in Vegas”? We all know that THAT isn’t true any longer! Cell phones allow us to post anything, anytime, anywhere. Before you post any photos from the holiday party, pause and ask yourself “Would this photo pass the CEO test?” If your employer has a social media policy, make sure you are aware of it. This is sometimes the case if you work for the public sector like the Federal Government. If the photo isn’t one that the CEO of your company would find appropriate, it’s probably not a good idea to share it with the world. Pause before you post to Facebook!
Show your thanks
Within 24 hours of the party, send out a handwritten thank you note to your employer – and also to anyone who helped organize the celebration.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Everyday Etiquette and tagged holiday office party etiquette tips
December 1, 2018
During the holidays, the rules for gift giving in the workplace are tricky. Many people are simply unsure of the protocol when it comes to inter-cubicle gift giving.
How much should I spend on a coworker?
Should I buy for my boss?
What should I buy my staff?
All of these questions are common this time of year.
Gift giving during the holiday season provides you with an opportunity to say “thank you” to those people who have supported you during the year—and that includes coworkers and mentors.
There are no mandatory holiday gift giving rules when it comes to how much to spend, however, some workplaces have guidelines in place that you must adhere to when giving gifts at the office. A good rule of thumb is to spend no more than the tax credit allowed in your country for professional gifts. In the U.S., the IRS allows a $25 tax deduction for each professional gift.
When buying for your boss, keep in mind that he likely has enough gadgets and trinkets. Be modest and consider doing something unique this year, such as making a donation to one of his or her favorite charities in the recipient’s name.
If you’re the boss, it’s a good idea to keep your radar up all year—listening in for your employees’ hobbies and interests. This will save you time choosing the perfect gift to give each one during the holidays. And it will make them feel appreciated!
Some gift-giving inspiration
Just can’t figure out what to buy? Here are a few ideas for you:
- Wine. When you give someone a bottle of wine, they can enjoy it now or save it for a long time.
- Chocolate. Dark chocolate is not only decadent, but it’s good for you! The perfect gift for everyone on your list!
- Treat someone to a service. Giving someone “permission” to treat themselves is the perfect gift.
- Food. During the holiday season, there are many stores that offer pre-made savory or sweet food hampers–or you can get creative and create a basket of goodies!
- Gift card. A gift card from Amazon is always a favorite gift because it gives the recipient an opportunity to buy whatever she wants anytime of year – guilt-free!
If you’re thinking about giving gifts to your customers this year, make sure you think about this first:
- Don’t give expensive gifts, but those intended to make the customer feel as though you appreciate them (not obligated to buy from you.)
- Don’t send gifts to prospective customers. By giving a gift too early in your business relationship, the intention may be misconstrued. Gifts are appropriate only if you have an ongoing business relationship.
- Don’t send promotional gifts. When sending a gift to a customer, refrain from sending something that’s tagged with your logo or brand. Save those items for trade shows and business events.
- DO send something of meaning. Tying a gift to a customer’s hobby or outside interest shows that you value the relationship.
The most important aspect of gift giving is that it comes from your heart so if you’re wondering where to draw the line, go with your instincts. If you’re uncomfortable with the idea of giving a particular person a gift, then don’t do it.
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Posted by Margaret in Everyday Etiquette and tagged holiday gift giving etiquette tips
