Creative Holiday Gifts for Your Colleagues

By
TORY JOHNSON
via
November 30, 2006, 4:17 PM ET
3 min read

Nov. 25, 2006 — -- Optional gift-giving in the workplace need not break the bank. Instead of focusing on currying favor with a bigwig or outspending your cube mates, your focus should be on showing your appreciation for the year-round support and camaraderie of a colleague or manager.

But before spending a penny, check out the gift policies and protocols in your workplace. As long as the exchange of gifts is permitted, think about clever and creative ways to spread good cheer.

While gift cards are always appreciated, especially when purchased at a store you know the recipient loves, there are other affordable ways to celebrate without revealing that you've spent under $20.

Sweet success in the New Year: Order a beautiful caramel apple crumb cake or chocolate crumb cake ($19.95, plus shipping) from BakeMeAWish.com for a boss, co-worker or small department. A portion of all proceeds are donated to the Make-a-Wish Foundation in the name of the recipient, so your gift gives two ways.

Have a ball: For just $10, including shipping, SendABall.com will ship a bouncy ball to your lucky co-worker or client. The postage is placed right on the ball, so it's delivered without any exterior packaging. Make a clever statement by saying, "I had a ball working with you" or "Let's have a ball working together in 2007"

Humor in the workplace: From the boss to the front-desk receptionist, everyone appreciates a little humor at work, and there's no better way to deliver it than with a selection of hysterical sticky notes, pads and desk accessories from KnockKnock.biz. The laughter starts at just $3.25 so you can put together a package that suits any budget.

Safe travels: Every business traveler dreads the prospect of losing luggage, which is what makes the $12 set of colorful tags from PamelaBarsky.com a great gift for anyone you work with. Sayings in the six-pack include "Nothing worth stealing in here" and "Careful: My shoes are inside."

Game balls: Golfballs.com will personalize any selection of golfballs with text and/or photos, making them a great gift for anyone on your list who favors the sport. Try "You're at the top of your game, Bill" as one of the text options to wish your boss a happy holiday.

Tory Johnson is the workplace contributor for Good Morning America and the CEO of WomenForHire.com.