What’s a good budget?

$10 to $50 per person, says Agnes Koh, director of Etiquette & Image International, depending on how many colleagues you’re intending to buy gifts for and how well you know them.

“For a company of 20 people, a generic but thoughtful gift costing a few dollars each will be appreciated,” adds Jessica Chew, a marketing communications executive from Adecco Singapore, a leading HR solutions provider. To avoid busting your budget, set a limit on how much you want to spend per person and don’t exceed it.

What should I get?

Mugs, chocolate, stationery and shopping vouchers are good generic gifts. If you’d like to give something more heartfelt, Jessica suggests baking cookies. Or make a donation in cash or kind to a charity that your colleague supports on behalf of him or her. Stay clear of personal items such as jewellery, lingerie and even perfume – you may be signalling that you think that your colleague smells bad, says Agnes.

Can I BUY gifts of obviously different value?

Preferably not. “It can create unnecessary bitterness among colleagues,” cautions Agnes. If you have co-workers who are also good friends, Jessica suggests giving them their pricier gifts outside the office.

MUST I GET GIFTS FOR EVERYONE?

No. It’s important to be genuine. “Give them to the people you want to give to, not who you should give to,” says Jessica. To help you decide where to draw the line, find out what the standard practice is in your company beforehand.

When do I GIVE THEM OUT?

Anytime before Christmas, unless there is a specific day allocated for distributing gifts, such as an office party.

As a boss, how do I steer clear of any favouritism?

Buy gifts of equivalent value, says Agnes, or give your team members something that can be enjoyed equally by everyone. For example, treat your department to lunch or organise a celebration. Alternatively, reward your team by arranging for your department to leave work early or take half a day off, suggests Jessica.