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HR Insights: Navigating Holiday Gift Exchanges in the Workplace

How can we navigate holiday gift exchanges in the workplace to keep things fun and appropriate?

Present side by side with upset shocked woman

Scenario:

How can we navigate holiday gift exchanges in the workplace to keep things fun and appropriate? Last year, an employee received a humorous but highly inappropriate gift. What steps can we take to prevent similar situations this year?





Answer:

Ah, the holiday gift exchange, a cherished tradition that occasionally goes just a touch too far. While everyone appreciates a good laugh, last year’s 'inappropriate gift incident' is a reminder that humor in the workplace should ideally not double as an HR case study.


To prevent another ‘memorable’ gift-giving experience, consider these gentle guardrails:

  • Set a Theme or Category:

    • Choose themes like 'cozy winter,' 'favorite snacks,' or 'desk friendly.' This gives everyone guidance (and helps avoid questionable creativity).


  • Encourage Appropriateness with Good Humor:

    • Send a lighthearted reminder to keep gifts workplace friendly. A simple 'Let’s keep it PG!' or 'Nothing that’ll make HR raise an eyebrow!' sets a clear tone.


  • Detailed Wish Lists:

    • Consider a structured Secret Santa where employees create detailed wish lists. This way, givers can confidently choose gifts that hit the mark—without hitting any red flags.


  • Gift Approval Option:

    • If you sense your team’s creativity leans 'outside the box,' offer an anonymous submission process for questionable gifts. A quick 'thumbs-up' or 'not-so-fast' from HR can save everyone from a surprise that’s a bit too surprising. This option works best with a reasonable team size.


  • Focus on Experiences Over Objects:

    • Consider a 'Secret Santa of Thanks' where employees exchange heartfelt (and workplace-appropriate) messages of appreciation, rather than objects that might land them in the HR Hall of Fame.


Gift exchanges are meant to bring a little joy, not a cause for post-holiday follow-ups. With a touch of structure, everyone can enjoy the festivities without fear of a 'do you remember what happened last year?' moment. Happy gifting!

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