Do You Need to Get Your Boss a Christmas or Holiday Present?

The holidays are coming up, and that age-old question pops up:

“Should I get my boss a Christmas present?”

Ah, the awkwardness of holiday etiquette in the workplace! It’s a classic dilemma that really depends on the culture of your office, your relationship with your boss, and how much you want to make things weird (hint: you probably don’t).

Read→ The #1 Gift You Should Give Your Employees in 2024

The Golden Rule: Totally Optional

First things first:

You do NOT have to get your boss a gift.

Let’s say that louder for the people in the back—you are under no obligation to buy your boss anything. 

In most workplaces, gift-giving flows downward—from boss to employee—not the other way around. The last thing you want is for your well-meaning gesture to come off as trying too hard or, worse, like you’re sucking up.

What’s the Office Vibe?

If your office has a culture where gift-giving is common, sure, go ahead and join in. But keep it modest. You don’t want to be the person giving a personalized gift basket while everyone else is handing over a $5 coffee card. Talk to your colleagues, see what others are planning, and keep it low-key.

What Makes a Good Boss Gift?

If you’re going to get a gift, keep it small and thoughtful. Here are some foolproof ideas:

• A Nice Card: Seriously, a heartfelt note can do wonders. Thank your boss for their support over the year, and you’re golden. Simple, meaningful, and zero pressure.
• Coffee or Tea: If your boss runs on caffeine (as many do), a small set of specialty blends or a nice mug can be a great touch.
• Office Plants: A small, low-maintenance plant can add some life to their workspace. Plus, it’s neutral enough that it doesn’t scream “I know too much about your personal life!”
• Personal Interests: If you know your boss well, something small that relates to their hobbies works—a book, some golf balls, or even a cozy candle if they’re into that kind of thing. Etsy has great stuff, but you need to start now for holiday delivery. 

Avoid anything too personal, too pricey, or just plain awkward. You’re aiming for appreciation, not a power move.

When to Skip the Gift

Sometimes, no gift is the best gift. Here’s when you should absolutely skip it:

• If Nobody Else Is Doing It: If no one else is buying gifts, don’t be the outlier. It’ll just make things weird for everyone.

• If It Feels Forced: If you’re only buying a gift because you’re stressed about how it looks, save yourself the trouble. A forced gift isn’t really a gift—it’s just a headache.