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Gift-giving etiquette is essential to show thoughtfulness and consideration for others. This is especially true during the holiday gift-giving period that begins in November. Here are the top 8 tips for gift-giving etiquette:
DO
1. Consider the recipient: Think about the recipient’s interests, preferences, and needs. A thoughtful and personalized gift is always more appreciated.
2. Plan ahead: If you didn’t begin this process the first week in November, the first week in December should be the week to finalize all purchases. This avoids last-minute shopping and shipping at higher rates. Strive to be done by the 10th of December.
In fact, don’t wait for November to come up with gifts. Try jotting down names of people you plan to give gifts to throughout the year. Keep this list in your wallet or purse. Check the name off as you come across gifts while out and about. Store all gifts in a closet until the holiday season arrives. This way, you’ll have no more worries about last-minute shopping or stress during the holiday season.
3. Include a card: A handwritten note must express your well-wishes. The thought behind the gift can make the gesture even more special.
4. Respect cultural differences: Be aware of cultural and religious considerations when giving gifts. Some cultures have specific customs or taboos related to gift-giving. Example: It is considered bad luck to give clocks or knives as gifts in Chinese culture. This is because both items symbolize death – the clock when it stops ticking and the knife when it is used to kill someone. I have received multiple clocks over the years as speaker gifts, yet I recognize the gift-giver was clueless in cultural awareness.
5. Ask for a wish list: When in doubt, ask the recipient or their close friends or family for a wish list or suggestions to ensure you choose something they’ll truly appreciate.
6. Mind the occasion: Select a gift appropriate for the occasion, whether it’s a birthday, wedding, holiday, or other special event.
7. Consider the presentation: Wrap the gift nicely and present it appealingly. A great presentation adds to the excitement of receiving a gift.
8. Respect gift-giving boundaries: Some people may have personal reasons for not exchanging gifts, due tofinancial constraints and other reasons. Respect their decisions without judgment.
DON’T
1. Re-gift carelessly: When done discreetly and thoughtfully, it’s meaningful to give a gift you don’t want to someone else. Do not to give the gift to someone who knows the original gift-giver.
2. Overdo it: Stick to your budget when buying gifts. People appreciate thoughtful presents more than extravagant ones.
3. Give inappropriate presents: Avoid giving gifts that may be perceived as too personal or inappropriate for the recipient, as doing so could be considered offensive. Giving perfume to someone who doesn’t wear perfume. A bottle of wine to a non-drinker.
4. Be thoughtless: Don’t give generic logo merchandise you got for free. Use these items as a bonus, not the primary gift.
5. Compete or show off: Gift-giving should not be a competition where you try to outdo the person who is giving you a gift.
6. Ignore dietary restrictions: It would be insensitive to give someone food items with dietary restrictions or allergies that may cause harm or discomfort.
7. Assume everyone wants a surprise: While some people don’t mind surprises, others don’t appreciate them. Make sure the recipient is comfortable.
8. Procrastinate: Rushed gift selections often result in less appropriate choices. Consider year-round purchases as outlined in No. 2 of Do’s.
By following these 8 dos and don’ts of gift-giving etiquette, you can ensure that your gifts are well-received and that people will appreciate your intention to make them feel special.
Bonus: Over the years, I’ve written several articles on gift-giving, each from a slightly different perspective:
- Gift-giving from the Heart (Also at https://www.advancedetiquette.com/life/holiday-gift-giving-from-the-heart/)
- Gift-Giving and Receiving Gifts (Also at https://www.advancedetiquette.com/life/gift-giving-and-receiving/)
- Giving and Receiving Gift Cards (Also at https://www.advancedetiquette.com/life/giving-and-receiving-gift-cards/)
- My favorite: ABW to Gift-Giving (Also at https://www.advancedetiquette.com/life/abw-to-gift-giving/) Yes!!
Happy Practicing!