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Gift exchanges are a popular custom in many offices.
But, constraints of time and money can leave people wondering how
to make merry without going broke. Assuming that everyone's
100% behind the idea of a gift exchange, here are some options
to consider from GiftElan.com and other experts.
- Draw names and specify a price range for gifts
exchanged among coworkers. Many clever and appropriate gifts — scented candles,
small boxes of candy, puzzles, picture frames, key chains, and
magazines — can be found for less than five dollars.
- Other items perfect for workplace giving can be purchased for
$10 to $25. Choose from page-a-day theme calendars, desk plants,
movie tickets, compact disks, books, restaurant gift certificates,
videocassettes, virtual pet computer software, pocket calculators,
and the like.
- As a group, contribute your time or make a
donation to a charitable cause or appropriate organization. You
could also contribute individually and during your holiday party,
each of you could explain why you chose that charity. It's a good way for people to get to
know each other and what's going on in the community.
- Collectively give the office a gift — a
microwave oven, an espresso maker, a clock, a plant, an accessory
for the reception area or another common area. Note: Determine
how much each member of the staff is willing to contribute before
deciding what to buy.
- Exchange only token gifts (tree ornaments, home-baked cookies,
candles, greeting cards) with immediate coworkers.
- Invite everyone to donate a favorite item
such as a favorite book or tree ornament. Then, have a gift-wrapping
party to wrap all your donations. Books could go to a local nursing
home and ornaments could be delivered to a local Children's
Hospital.
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