When it comes to gift giving,the old proverb has always been “it’s the thought that counts.” And though we would readily agree,it’s safe to say that at one time or another we all have been guilty of not following proper gift giving etiquette.
Most of us love to go shopping,but how many of us like to buy things that strike our fancy,not the fancy of the recipient? Plus,it’s no fun to buy something you consider ugly or tacky or ridiculously out of style,even if that item is exactly what best friend or your sister would love.
Yet,according to proper gift giving etiquette,when purchasing a gift for someone else,you should never make your taste overriding that of the recipient.
■Silent Rules of Gift Giving
A perfect gift should show that you invested a little time and energy and that you actually cared about the preference of the recipient.If you go the extra mile,it’s more likely that the recipient will love the gift.When you don’t invest some time and effort into your selection of gifts the recipient’s smile will be forced,which is a sure sign they don’t like their gift.What’s worse,you’ll both know it.Their forced smile will be followed by that uncomfortable occasion in which two things usually happen: the recipient lies and says they love the gift and you scramble to find the receipt so they can return the gift as soon as you leave.The easiest way to avoid this problem is to purchase for a gift that they are really like.
■Gift Etiquette
The best way to avoid this conundrum is to find something in common between yourself and the recipient.Sit down and really think about the recipient.Once you figure this out,you can easily delimit an area that would be safe shopping around.
For example,if you both like gardening,buy a garden basket,and fill it with gardening tools.If you both enjoy the same music,you would be safe in purchasing a nice basket and filling it with CDs you would like.
■Taste or the Lack There of
There is no accounting for taste.Just grit your teeth and buy that ugly yellow sweater with the brown zipper that your sister wants so badly.You’ll preserve the gift-giving magic and reinforce your sisterly bond for life.As ugly as you think it is,she’ll love you all the more for buying it.Knowing you made her happy is much more fun than shopping for a nice pink sweater that would have looked perfect on you.
■Appreciated or Not
Giving a gift is an act of kindness.When someone sends a gift to someone else,the expected reaction,which is not always received,is gratitude.Therefore,when one receives a gift for whatever reason the automatic response should be to offer a sincere thank-you in return.
It matters not whether the thank-you note arrives by telephone or email or in person.What does matter,however,is that the recipient appreciates the gift.
■Flowers as Gifts
Flowers may be sent by almost everyone to almost anyone for pretty much any occasion,such as weddings,birthdays,showers,thank-you’s,a hostess gift,and a myriad of others.Flowers are considered by most to be a very thoughtful gift.While some people are constantly sending flowers,others seldom do.So be remember not to assume that we shouldn’t send flowers because we think those we can afford are not good enough.The gesture of a gift is always appreciated,no matter how small the gift is.
■Money Gifts
At times,money is the most welcome and popular present of all,and it may also be an easy way of avoiding the challenge of selecting the perfect gift.There are very few teenagers and elderly who do not favor the idea of a little extra spending cash.And for those who don’t like just handing over cash,a gift certificate to their favorite store may seem a little more personalized.
■Gift Giving at Work
Gift giving strengthens relationships,both at home and at the workplace.Usually,bosses set up a system where gifts are given to exemplary employees in the form of the ever popular gift baskets or gift certificates,which are easy on the eyes and easy on the budget.
Additionally,during the holidays,many companies exchange gifts or conduct Secret Santa programs.Not only do these types of activities break up the boring daily grind,but they also serve keeping goodwill and cheer flowing throughout the office during a maniac time.
■The Element of Surprise
If you want to give a gift that’ll be remembered all year long by the recipient,you need to put your imagination to work.Listen to what the recipient talks about,particularly if they say they need something.For instance,if a person often says they’d love to paint but never have the time,then a set of paints and brushes might be the perfect gift to inspire them to get started.
Occasionally,you’ll come across a recipient who seems to have everything.That’s when you can let your imagination run wild.Your purpose in this case is to find something that will surprise and delight.Buy a gift that they may not have said they wanted but which reflects their personality.You’ll show them that you always pay attention to and remember what they have to say.
■Thank-you Notes
Properly appreciating the person that the gift came from is also very important.Thank-you notes are highly recommended when a gift is received,regardless of the reason for the gift.The Thank-you notes do not have to be a formal or even purchased,what matters is the sentiment that the note conveys and the thank-you note should always be handwritten.