Published on May 29, 2026 10:58:06AM by Alifia
Giving a gift to your colleagues is an act of appreciation and gratitude. Discover the modern etiquette of workplace gift-giving and make your gift count.
For some people, giving someone a present on their special day is a thing they enjoy. It’s their way to express their love and appreciation, and they will feel happy when their gift is received well.
However, in the professional setting, gift-giving is an act that can be easily misunderstood. There are some unwritten rules about who you’re giving a present to, when you give it, and what to get them, depending on their ranks and positions. Read more about it below.
Giving a gift to your colleagues is a kind gesture. It shows that you value your professional relationship or appreciate their hard work. It can even strengthen your professional relationship in the office. However, it’s important that you assess the situation before giving your colleague a gift.
Essentially, before you even order a gift, you should check the gift-giving culture in your office. Do note that different areas might have different customs, so ensure that you are adhering to the company’s policy.
Dr David Leong, managing director of People Worldwide Consulting, told The Straits Times that a worker should consider the occasion, workplace culture, and potential implications when deciding to gift their boss. This also applies when you are giving to colleagues at the same level as you.
You should determine the right time to give your present. Significant personal events like weddings, childbirth, or retirement are generally appropriate for gift-giving. You can also note whether there is a gift-exchange culture for cultural events, such as Hari Raya and Christmas.
Furthermore, avoid giving a gift to your superior during ‘sensitive’ times, such as appraisal season. Although your intention is good, it can be easily misunderstood as bribery. This also puts your superior in an awkward situation, whether they accept your gift or not.
As a rule of thumb, it’s advisable to give a meaningful, practical, and functional gift. Pick something that can enhance your coworker’s workspace, such as a mug, a tumbler, a desk calendar, or a pen holder. Avoid giving things they cannot or will not use.
If you are close to the recipient, you can give a more personalized gift, like healthy snacks or scented candles. However, Dr Leong noted that too-personal items like jewellery or skincare products will overstep the workplace relationship.
When gifting your boss or any superior, a group gift is always acceptable. Things like a framed team photo, flowers, or an engraved pen are appropriate as a group gift. However, in giving a group gift, ensure that everyone is not pressured to participate. This can create a negative atmosphere, even resentment, from the related employee.
Whether it’s just a jar of candies or a subscription voucher, gift-giving can build stronger relationships between employees. Thoughtful gifts can also lift your colleagues’ spirit from job fatigue, boosting their motivation. All of these creates a positive company culture, which, in the long run, contributes to overall company success.
In medium to big companies, it’s possible that you don’t know who works in other departments, especially those whose roles and tasks don’t overlap with yours. Gift exchange events during special events, like Christmas, can encourage positive interaction between different departments.
Giving a gift to your coworker or superiors is a thoughtful gesture. With the appropriate gift and at an appropriate time, giving a present can enhance your professional relationship at the workplace. However, there are several principles that you should follow before doing so. By following the company’s gift-giving rule and the unspoken etiquette, your gift will be well-received and feel more meaningful.
Next read: Employee Wellness: Healthier Culture for a More Productive Team
