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#Post#: 61737--------------------------------------------------
gifting to reciprocate?
By: Isisnin Date: December 19, 2020, 7:47 am
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This is at a retail store. I am not aware of any of us getting
together outside of work - not even after work drinks. I think
that's a function of us working shifts that end at different
times and maybe, for many of us, that we are all older and just
don't go out much anyways and/or spend a lot of time with
family.
One colleague recently gave me a holiday present ( a kitchen
towel). She did so to a few others too, like those of us who
work together often.
Should I reciprocate? Or would it look too reciprocatish? Other
options? She is one of my favorites. As are others. But I
wasn't planning on gifting. I am happy to not get into
work-place gifting. I have worked in offices where it got to be
more pain than pleasure don't want to go there again. But it was
lovely o her.
#Post#: 61739--------------------------------------------------
Re: gifting to reciprocate?
By: STiG Date: December 19, 2020, 10:14 am
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I would thank her but I wouldn't reciprocate. But if you work
the same shift with her, and the others you like, maybe bring in
some cookies or something to share.
#Post#: 61745--------------------------------------------------
Re: gifting to reciprocate?
By: lakey Date: December 19, 2020, 1:22 pm
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It depends on whether or not you want at work gift exchanges.
Some people like the fun of getting minor gifts from lots of
people. Then there are those of us who don't want a lot of
"stuff" cluttering up our homes. If you reciprocate, it is more
likely to reoccur. STiG's suggestion of an edible treat for
everyone to share shows that you are thoughtful, without the
obligation of going out and buying a gift.
#Post#: 61748--------------------------------------------------
Re: gifting to reciprocate?
By: Rose Red Date: December 19, 2020, 3:26 pm
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You don't have to reciprocate or spend a lot of money for the
whole team, but if you want to, a small treat is nice. I usually
bring in chocolates for everyone to share, or pass out candy
canes. I like to tie a regular peppermint and a fun flavor candy
cane together with ribbons. Cheap but festive.
#Post#: 61749--------------------------------------------------
Re: gifting to reciprocate?
By: chigger Date: December 19, 2020, 3:39 pm
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[quote author=Rose Red link=topic=1954.msg61748#msg61748
date=1608413212]
You don't have to reciprocate or spend a lot of money for the
whole team, but if you want to, a small treat is nice. I usually
bring in chocolates for everyone to share, or pass out candy
canes. I like to tie a regular peppermint and a fun flavor candy
cane together with ribbons. Cheap but festive.
[/quote]
That sounds like a fun thing to do!
#Post#: 61751--------------------------------------------------
Re: gifting to reciprocate?
By: TurtleIScream Date: December 19, 2020, 4:37 pm
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I am someone who loves to give gifts. If I were your coworker, I
would not expect reciprocation. That kind of small token gift
would be about spreading cheer rather than deepening the
relationship. But I would also never say no to cookies!
#Post#: 61753--------------------------------------------------
Re: gifting to reciprocate?
By: DaDancingPsych Date: December 19, 2020, 7:04 pm
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Do you WANT to give her a gift? If you do, great. Go ahead and
reciprocate. But do be aware that you could be starting
something that is anticipated annually. Also, if you do not plan
to gift others, then I think the kind thing is to do it in
private.
If you do not, then provide a hardy thanks and leave it at that.
It was a kind gesture, that requires acknowledgement. But I
don't think you are required to do the same. That would give the
message that you are not interested in exchanging gifts, which
may or may not change her behavior in the future.
But I don't think the act of a colleague gifting requires you to
reciprocate.
#Post#: 61775--------------------------------------------------
Re: gifting to reciprocate?
By: Isisnin Date: December 20, 2020, 1:23 pm
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Thank you for your replies. It helps me think things thru. I
love the idea of tying a fun flavor cane to a classic
peppermint!
Treats for everyone is a good idea.
Corporate has strict regulations now due to Covid, so we can't
bring in homemade treats for everyone like the old times.
Everything has to be individually wrapped. I suspect that means
in a state-inspected facility, not homemade. They have been
feeding us from restaurants and delis with individually wrapped
sandwiches and individually wrapped pizzas. Desserts are
individually wrapped pastries or cookies and brownies. So I'm
thinking a plate of homemade treats won't fly.
I'll stop at the store and check out individually, prepackaged
candies and get some for everyone to share in the break room.
Plus a separate plate and a card for the managers who gave us
coordinators chocolates and gift-cards.
I would like to show my affection and appreciation for the
colleague who gifted me - without it becoming an annual
escalation thing. A card and a small, specially chosen treat
perhaps.
I would prefer to do it privately, but that could be tough.
I pretty sure I know her coat and could hang it in a bag on her
hanger. Corporate has us covering our coats in opaque plastic
bags before we hang them up as a Covid precaution, so I can't
leave it in her pocket.
Thanks again.
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