Giving a Gift that won't Get You Fired: Tips for Buying Your Boss a Gift  

Whether it's for a holiday, boss appreciation day, or a birthday, there will be some point when you have to buy your boss a gift. Deciding on what to get your boss can be even harder than deciding on what to get a loved one. You may not know your boss very well, or be worried about making a bad impression. If you're trying to buying the perfect gift for your boss, here are some great rules, guidelines, and suggestions to keep you from being embarrassed or receiving a pink slip.

• Giving a Gift as a Group: If you're thinking of giving your boss a birthday or holiday gift, consider getting the entire office or department involved. Getting everyone involved in the gift giving can create a more comfortable situation for you, your boss, and your co-workers. Buying the gift you not only will cost a little bit more than a group gift, but it may also send the wrong signals to your boss and your fellow employees.

• Giving a Gift on Your Own: If you do decide to get your boss a gift on your own, make sure it's not over expensive. Buying a gift that is obviously pricey can make you look like your trying to improve your situation at work through bribery. It's also a good idea to give him or her gift in private instead of making a scene out of it.

• Setting a Budget:Regardless of whether you buying the gift yourself or have convinced a group of fellow workers to chip in, it's a good idea to set a budget. The amount of money you want to spend on the gift is an important factor in deciding want to purchase for your boss? Don't feel pressured to spend more on the gift then you can because it's your boss. It's a friendly gesture not a requirement and therefore it will be appreciated as long as it is thoughtful.

• What to Buy: Find something that your boss can actually use. Your boss most likely has an endless supply of novelty gifts and trinkets around his office that ultimately take up space and collect dust. A good way to find a functional gift for your boss is to think about what he or she likes. For example, if your boss is a big coffee drinker, get the office together and by a basket full of gourmet coffees, teas, and other morning essentials.
• Be Appropriate: Make sure it's appropriate for the environment you work in. No one knows better what is and is not okay in your office so use common sense. It's usually a good idea to rule out gag gifts that may insult your boss, gifts that may appear to be sexual in nature and gifts that can contain vulgar or inappropriate language coworkers such as mugs or signs with inappropriate language.

• Be On Time: If you don't have much time to get the present, check out reputable online florists or retailers who specialize in gift baskets. Things like gift baskets and flowers are usually delivered on time, but other items may be iffy. If you are really cutting it close on time, check out local shops or eateries your boss may frequent to see if they have gift basket or offer gift certificates.
  

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