Do you feel burdened receiving gifts from co-workers?

Question

Excluding planned gift exchange, do you feel like you have to give another gift back? Do you still do it when the co-workers give you the gift, and it is her/his last day before vacation and by the time he/she comes back it will be after christmas or new year?

Answer 1

Some people are just that,they like to give.There is no need to reciprocate ,otherwise you would have already bought a present for this person.Just thank them and wish them well for xmas.

Answer 2

I buy all of the people in my department a gift. I don't expect one back, nor am I trying to put pressure on anyone to buy me one. I don't think most people buy you a gift to get one back, but I am sure there is an exception to that - to which I say get outta here! I leave them all on Christmas Eve, so if someone is on vacation they know it was there Christmas Eve, and it is all about a nice gesture so they won't question if you bought it the day after or anything. If they do - everyone will let them know they got something, too.

Answer 3

I think you can at least give each person a thank you card or a Christmas card. I was a little hurt when everyone in my department decided to give each other Christmas presents and excluded me. Oh well, I guess they do not like me, but it really is not a kind way to be shown this. I gave everyone a Christmas card anyway because I try to be professional as possible. I think a simple card with a candy cane works nicely if you cannot afford to buy everyone a present.

Answer 4

When someone gives me a gift that I was particularly expecting, I do feel burdened to give them a gift too. I try to give them the gift ASAP even if I need to meet them for coffee or drop it off at their house. That is just the type of person I am.

Answer 5

Yes, it is a burden and is also dumb and unnecessary! Better to give to a charity.