How much to contribute to a coworker’s gift
Is your colleague a dear friend or someone you merely run into at the copier?
How much should you contribute to a coworker’s gift? The answer depends on your relationship, your finances, the occasion, and whether it’s a group vs individual gift. Around $10-20 is a safe amount to contribute in most instances. Let’s take a close look at the key questions to consider when deciding whether and how much to contribute to a coworker’s gift.
Why do people give gifts to coworkers?
Many teams and offices choose to celebrate birthdays and other big life events to foster culture, build morale, and strengthen the team bond. Let’s face it, work can start to feel like Groundhog Day so celebrating special occasions can make work feel less mundane and help you feel valued.
Some offices celebrate these events with a group gathering and a single group gift, whereas other teams may decide to keep gift giving on a more individual basis. There is no right or wrong way, and may come down to office culture or even size. The larger the team, the harder it can be to focus on individual celebrations and organize a single gift.
If budget constraints are not an issue, the decision to give or not give a gift to a coworker comes down to how much you value and enjoy the person.
How much should I spend on my coworker’s gift?
As you think about what feels appropriate, consider your relationship with your colleague, the occasion, and your own financial means. Most people are more generous with their giving when it comes to celebrating a life event, such as a new baby or an upcoming wedding.
Since your relationship is the most important factor, consider how well you know your coworker:
- Meh. If you’re not close to the person or money is tight, consider giving between $5-15.
- Pals. If you’re reasonably close to the person, consider giving between $10-20.
- Besties. If you’re two peas in a pod, consider giving between $25-50.
- Boss. If they’re your boss, think twice (and check your office rules) before giving any gifts.
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What gift should I give my coworker who is leaving?
Are expectations different in group vs individual gifts?
Group gifts
In a group gift situation, there is more flexibility because the gift recipient will not know how much each person has given.
Money is typically collected in one of two ways: as cash in a card, or as cash or electronic payment (hey Venmo!) to a single person who has agreed to be the money collector. There are some pros and cons of being the money collector.
As the money collector, you are tasked with collecting money from everyone who wants to contribute. The money collector also typically buys the actual gift or gift card. It certainly takes some extra effort and time, but does have the hidden benefit of allowing you to keep your contribution completely private and providing some flexibility on your contribution since you will likely round up to a nice, even number. For example, your office’s contributions total $130, which means an even $20 brings you to a respectable total of $150.
A group gift can have that personal touch with a card everyone signs. Don’t forget to let them know WHY you enjoy working with them. A specific comment feels much more meaningful than the predictable, “Happy Birthday!” only.
Individual gifts
People tend to give individual gifts when they are closer to the person being celebrated as they are usually more personal and require more thought.
The type and amount of gift will likely be heavily impacted by the occasion and your closeness. For baby showers or wedding gifts, a gift card is often most appreciated so that the person can actually get items they need and want.
For a birthday or going away gift, a more personal gift is in order. Items they can use in their office, such as a cool print for the wall or a fun mug, can be terrific ways to honor your coworker. For an experience gift, a lunch or dinner out can be a great way to celebrate them. For nightlife-loving coworkers, a night out on the town (karaoke, anyone?) can make for a memorable celebration. A gift does not have to be large to be memorable or bring a smile on your coworker’s face.
Don’t forget the card! Take a moment to let that coworker know how they make a difference at your workplace. The perfectly chosen card can make them laugh or feel the love.
What are other ways to celebrate a colleague?
Is it OK to not give gifts, such as Christmas gifts, at work? Absolutely, you don’t have to make a monetary contribution to a coworker’s gift. There are other ways to celebrate them. Here are some options.
Mid-day office lunch parties can be a great way to celebrate a colleague without planning a big event or night out. Lunch can be ordered in or food can be brought in potluck-style.
For a nominal amount of money, you can get a few theme-based party decorations to make the conference room or break room feel festive.
Our team recently celebrated a coworker on Veteran’s Day by laminating a picture of his face and affixing it to everyone’s ID badges. It put a huge smile on his face and let everyone know who the day was all about.
At the end of the day, it’s about making your coworker feel special.
The final word…
Coworkers can become like family. Deciding how much to spend on them for their birthday or other special occasion can feel tricky. Factoring in your relationship, the occasion, and your budget, you can settle on a number that feels comfortable.
As much time as we spend with our coworkers, it is absolutely worth it to nurture and nourish that relationship!
