Everyone gives gifts in a slightly different way; maybe you and your family always take a comedic approach, maybe you like to be serious and sentimental with all your gifts, or maybe you and your loved ones don’t really give gifts at all.
However, there’s going to be a point in your life when you need to give a gift to someone you’re just not sure about. You’re going to have to find them the perfect present that really makes them appreciate your efforts, and makes them think much higher of you for the year ahead.
And in this situation, you’ll need to follow the unspoken rules of gift giving, which we’ve detailed out for you below.
Think of the Person
The first thing to do is orientate your gift to the person in question, rather than get them something you’d rather they have, or only think they’d like. So think about what kind of person they are, and what they do; what do they work as, what kind of hobbies do they have, and what kind of conversations have you had with them, etc.
A gift that’s clearly had some thought put into it, whether it be practical or comedic or sentimental in nature, is always going to rock the room and ensure you all have a good time. Plus, it’ll prove just how good a gift giver you are, which can make a person very popular in the workplace!
Read the Room
Of course, if you’re thinking of bringing a gift along to an event, you’ll have to read the room ahead of time. Some weddings, which are often a surefire gift giving event, ask their guests to instead donate to charity, and when you’re off to a funeral, it’s 50/50 whether or not Memorial Gifts will be accepted. So don’t be afraid to do some research here. Get some clear signals to follow, and even ask around to see if anyone else is bringing a gift.
Always Show Your Gratitude
Finally, always be sure to show gratitude whenever a gift is given to you, even if you weren’t expecting anything and you have nothing to give in return. Even if the gift itself is a little questionable, and you know you’re not going to use it, there are plenty of ways to seem happy and thankful.
Moreover, when it comes to receiving a gift you weren’t expecting, there’s a good chance you’ll fly into a bit of a panic and be worried that the other person thinks you’re rude for not gifting in return. In cases like these, pull them aside after the event and ask if they wanted anything – it’s good etiquette, and it opens up honest communication.
There are rules to gift giving, even if they’ve never quite been taught to you before. But with a little common sense and an awareness of the situation you’re in, you’ll be able to find the perfect gift for anyone who expects one.
