How to Choose a Christmas Gift for the Boss

The boss-employee relationship is often complex. Some employees definitely feel subordinate to their bosses, while others feel more like peers. Whatever the dynamics, when it comes to the holiday season, choosing the perfect Christmas gift for the boss presents a challenge. The following suggestions can guide you in selecting a gift that your boss will enjoy throughout the year.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Inquire about the company's gift-giving policy. Your employer may shun the practice of exchanging Christmas gifts in the office. You'll need to ask your coworkers or human resources director if there's a gift-giving policy.

2. Set your spending limit. Remember that you're the employee and that your boss probably makes a substantial amount of money more than you do. Therefore, you don't need to spend anywhere near as much as your boss would spend on you; keep the gift thoughtful, but less than $20.

3. Engage in some research. Even if you don't know your boss on a personal level, it shouldn't be too difficult to figure out her likes, hobbies and interests. Look around her office for clues to help you pick a Christmas gift that she can use, such as golf balls, ski gloves or the latest bestseller.

4. Make a charitable donation. You may feel that any gift you choose isn't enough or something he will enjoy. In this case, make a donation to a charity he's involved or interested in, or a charity that benefits a sick relative.

5. Stick with the corporate gifts if your relationship isn't at all personal. A great Christmas gift for your boss can include a new pen set, planner or desk blotter. Something that she can use to make her life in the office easier is always a winner.

6. Spring for a night out. This doesn't have to be expensive. You can buy your boss a gift card to the local movie theater, playhouse, restaurant or coffeehouse.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're part of a team, ask your coworkers if they'd like to chip in for a group gift.
• If you know your boss's interests, good Christmas gifts can include books, CDs and magazine subscriptions.
• If you're on a really tight Christmas budget, consider baking a variety of holiday cookies and packaging them in an inexpensive yet attractive basket or tray.
• Avoid buying your boss anything personal for Christmas, including clothing, perfume or cologne.
• Before running out to the liquor store and buying a nice bottle of wine, be sure that your boss does indeed drink or that no one in his family is an alcoholic.