Xmas gifting

Question

While I have no problem with Secret Santa or small gifts for my officemates, there is a tradition in my office of gifting the boss.  One would think that would be something simple, with everyone giving a buck or two, but no, the general guideline is $10 from everyone for one boss' present, $20 for another.  This seems extravagant to me, since I'm on a tight budget (not much left over after paying for daycare out of pocket).  What happens at other companies?

Stacey Dunleavy · Answer

Original poster here:  I have a little change jar and  whatever singles I managed to set aside - they're getting the ~$10 in singles that I can spare...

Anonymous · Answer

My company is doing a 'white elephant' gift exchange at our holiday party, with a price cap of $15-20. Our bosses are included in that exchange, which I think takes some of the pressure out of navigating a separate gift like the one you're describing! Is it too late to suggest doing a white elephant instead?

Anonymous · Answer

That does seem excessive to me. This is my first holiday at this company, but no one has suggested (at least yet) to pool money for gifts for bosses. And if someone suggests it, I'm probably not gonna participate because it just seems weird to me. Can you just opt out of it?

Lady Pele · Answer

At my last company, our manager had twelve direct reports, and we all donated $10, which made a $120 dollar gift.  At  my current company, there is no tradition of gifting the boss.

Xmas gifting

You're invited.

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