The practice of giving gifts as a token of gratitude or for special occasions is universal. Indeed, it is a tradition everyone has been doing for years, yet very few people know the proper etiquette and nuances involved in gift-giving. Here are a few things you should keep in mind, whether you are on the giving or the receiving end:
1. Consider the person’s status. In the real world, not all men are created equal. In gift-giving, there’s a certain hierarchy we have to take into consideration, whether the gift is for your colleagues at the office or for your relatives. For instance, if you have two secretaries at the office – one has worked for you for 5 years while the other is a newbie – you can’t expect to give the same gift to both and get away with it.
The one who has stayed with you longer has given more in terms of loyalty to you and therefore deserves a bit more recognition. If you can’t afford to give a more expensive or valuable gift, then you should at least give them different presents to make them more personalized.
Similarly, older relatives such as aunts or grandmothers should not be given gifts taken straight from a fire sale. If you need to scrimp, you’re better off scouting for a one-of-a-kind item at a flea market, such as an antique candy dish or photo frame.
Gifts for parents or bosses need not cost you an arm and a leg. Books and bestsellers are inexpensive but useful gifts, especially if you know the recipient’s favorite genre. You can also give them a burned CD of their favorite songs. They only cost a few dollars but will be well appreciated.
2. Consider the person’s culture. If you’re a guest in another country and want to leave something for your hosts, take the time to study which gifts are taboo in their culture. What may be considered tasteful in your country may put the receiver in an embarrassing situation.
Study the country’s gift-giving etiquette in order to avoid mistakes. In Japan, for instance, the ritual is more important than the gift itself, so you can’t just leave a gift for the host on the desk or send a parcel to his home. In addition, while presents are immediately opened in the U.S., for example, Japanese prefer to open gifts in private.
3. Acknowledge any gift you receive. No matter how trivial a present may be, or even if it’s something you don’t really have use for, it’s always good manners to acknowledge it. Say thank you even if the gift looks odd, is too personal, or is just plain unsuitable for you (you can always recycle it or return it at the store).
When you receive a gift of money, think of something you’ll use it for, and let the giver know this. You can tell Aunt Linda, for instance, that you plan to use it for the swimming lessons you’ve always wanted to take, or mention that it will help a lot for your car fund.
Cheap and practical or expensive, all gifts deserve to be acknowledged. However, an extra-special gift deserves extra-special attention, so take the time to write a note of appreciation to grandpa, for instance, who’s just given you and your spouse an overnight stay in a hotel resort.