Once upon a time a boss could take his secretary to lunch,
or give flowers and candy for what began in 1952 as "National
Secretaries Week". Today, the etiquette for what is now
known as "Administrative Professionals Week" has
changed, according to human resources experts. It's leaving
bosses wondering what kind of gifts are appropriate to give
their office staff in today's workplace.
"There's increasing concern over what's proper for a
boss to give an employee in the workplace," said Daniel
Karpelman, who edits gifting advice for GiftCertificates.com.
"Are flowers too personal? Is taking your admin for lunch
and cocktails inappropriate? Bosses are worried about crossing
the line in the current atmosphere of workplace etiquette and potential
liability."
Karpelman notes that giving the right corporate gifts can
not only motivate and reward, but helps build employee commitment
and strengthens your organization from within. Taking time
to choose the right gift can enhance the employee's appreciation
of the gesture.
"Gifts that demonstrate some thought and effort are always
better than something that feels hastily purchased, said Karpelman.
"Many people enjoy a gift certificate to their favorite
store - they are thrilled that you've recognized their
diverse interests and given them a choice! When accompanied
by a handwritten note, your gesture is sure to be appreciated;
everyone likes to be recognized for hard work."
If you're puzzled on what interests your staff members might
have, GiftCertificates.com
has an innovative solution - a SuperCertificate® which
gives your employee the gift of choice. Imagine sending your
secretary on a virtual shopping spree with a certificate redeemable
at over 200 top stores and restaurants including gifts like
clothing, jewelry, electronics, movie tickets and much more.
SuperCertificates® are easy to give, never expire and
can even be sent by email.
Karpelman adds that although it's only natural for co-workers
to compare their gifts, the monetary value of your gift certificate
need not be the same for everyone on your staff. "If
there are wide discrepancies in the gifts that you give, be
aware that hurt feelings could arise. However if the same
individual has worked for you steadily for 20 years, it would
be perfectly appropriate for that person's gift to be
substantially more significant than for someone who has only
been with the company for six months."
Whether you call them secretaries or administrative professionals,
a stellar one is the heart of a well-run organization. This
year, National Administrative Professionals Week is April
23-29. Make sure you don't miss this opportunity
to let your staff know how much they are appreciated with
a gift that is appropriate and welcomed.
An avid gift giver, Daniel Karpelman edits gifting
advice for http://www.GiftCertificates.com,
the premiere website for gift certificates and home of the
SuperCertificate® which allows gift recipients to choose
their own gifts from over 200 top stores and restaurants.
