Holiday gift giving is often stressful enough without the added pressure of the office gift exchange. Especially in this economy, when so many are having to cut corners on spending, gift giving can become an added burden in an already stressful season. A common question asked to advice columns is “if a co-worker gives me a gift at the holidays, am I expected to give one in return, even if I had not planned to do so?” The answer is usually no. A good way to circumvent awkward situations is to have guidelines in place for the holidays. Small offices often do a Kris Kringle or Secret Santa exchange. This is where names are drawn and an individual anonymously gives small gifts to a co-worker for a week, with the final gift culminating in the revelation of the gift giver’s identity. Generally a spending limit is assigned at the beginning of the exchange and participation is always optional.

Traditionally, upper management gives employees a gift as a token of appreciation for a successful year. This can be done as a bonus, or even a holiday ham or turkey. Many companies even give a gift card to the local grocery in lieu of food, since every employee has different dietary needs. This is a nice idea, since it can be used by every employee and will always be appreciated. The major credit card companies also offer gift cards which can be loaded with any dollar amount and can be used for a purchase wherever that card is accepted. This idea is often more well-received than a gift card from a specific store, since employees have the freedom to use it for anything they choose.

A company in Provo, Utah made news several years ago for their innovative gift giving ideas. One year in particular, they gave employees subscriptions to trade publications specific to their industry. Since these subscriptions can generally be viewed as business expenses, the company was lauded for their savvy spending.

Many times, employees feel obligated to give a gift to their bosses. Financially, this may be difficult and stressful for some. Home baked goods are inexpensive and show the recipient that time and effort was put into the gift. If time is a factor, pre-packaging the ingredients for a dish and wrapping them festively are a great option. For managers, make it clear that you do not expect gifts at the holidays, even if you are giving one to your employees. That way, any gift that you do receive is that much more special and it takes the pressure off of your employees.

In giving gifts to vendors and business associates, first make certain you know that company’s policy on receiving gifts. More and more, in an effort to discourage the impression of impropriety, companies do not allow their employees to accept gifts from customers. If you are sending something to an office, a gift basket containing food can be enjoyed by the entire office. There are many companies today that can create gift baskets customized to your taste.

The bottom line is that the holidays can be as stressful as they are joyous. Always remember that your employees have their own obligations outside of the office, so gift giving should be seen as a pleasure, not a mandatory event. Sometimes a simple holiday card and a heartfelt “thank you for a job well done” are just as appreciated as any gift.