Gifts from Boss/Co-Worker: What do they mean?

[Errol]

I was just wondering what it means to you when your boss or co-worker buys you a Christmas gift. And I don't mean a card.

My boss got me something that couldn't be said around others, or else they'd feel jealous or whatever (his words, not mine, lol). It was a big basket of Ghirardelli Chocolate's with a card. Before I opened the gift however, I was thinking to myself, "I don't want Hygiene products or clothes," because I'd think that was like a message or something. Now that I know it is chocolate's, that somewhat doesn't make me feel better, "Does it mean I need to put on more weight or something?" lol. I really should be grateful I got anything from him other than a card, but still.

So, I know it is tacky, but what has your boss/co-worker given you recently or in the past that made you think, hmm...and what do you think what my boss gave me means?

[Bree]

I don't know, but all I can say is, don't be looking for any gifts from me.

[CSW]

Really? You're attempting to analyze a gift from your boss?

Chocolates are just chocolcates. They are the most commonly gifted generic gift. Do you know what they mean? They mean here are some chocolates. It has nothing to do with weight. It is absurd to think (you're not absurb but the concept is) that your boss is sending you hidden messages. You boss has to buy everyone in the small office a gift - it is sort of a rule for managers. Usually, women get flowers and men get gift certifiticates or chocolates.

Past examples of gifts from my boss(es):

-flowers

-chocolates

-wine

-t-shirt (that was more of a joke though)

-christmas related stuff like ornaments/mug/decorations gift basket.

None of them have any hidden meaning. So don't worry.

But you know you should get your boss something in return if you haven't already. If you don't then that will mean something.

[darraholic]

I really don't like getting gifts from outside of the family. I'm on a limited budget and can't afford to get people outside of the family gifts and I'd just feel bad.

[crc]

I don't think there's anything to read into that gift, but then again, I don't know your boss. LOL! It sounds like you might just be one of his favorite, hard-working employees.

The weirdest thing I've received was from a boss I had several years ago that I couldn't stand. I worked in this small processing facility for Prestige Portraits and whenever she was looking for someone from our department, she would get on the intercom to call for you, she would monitor your breaks, and she had this annoying way of calling be Christopher (really long, sing-songy), when I tell her time and time again I like to be called Chris. Anyway, I didn't tell anyone that it was my birthday until it was brought up that day. When I returned from lunch, she had everyone sing "Happy Birthday" in our department and gave me a name tag in the shape of an apple with my name on it. At the time, I was studying to be a teacher and was doing some in-class practicums. But, why in the world would I want to wear this big ass, red, apple-shaped name-tag. It's not like was teaching Kindergarten or something. I know it's the though that counts, but still...

[Roman]

I only want one gift from my boss:

A copy of her resignation.

[Bree]

LOL!

[Ryan]

My new boss surprised me today with a Christmas Bonus (she's been with us since October). She gave us an envelope during our luncheon today and made sure we knew that "this was from her, not our the board of directors". I had a $300.00 check, and so did the other people in my department. Inside the card it said "A special gift so someone who has worked his behind off to make my job easier. Here's a token of my appreciation for your hardwork ". I was shocked, happy and confused. On top of that, she gave us everyone a bottle of wine (sparkling cider for me since I'm underage) and wished us a happy holidays.

One of my co-workers doesn't want it because he feels like "he's taking a bribe" or something.

[SoapQueen89]

He probably wants you to feel appreciated and chocolate is something that most everyone enjoys to receive. I do agree that perhaps you should get him a little something in return as a thank you. I don't know if I'd give him chocolates in return but perhaps a gift certificate from a local restuarant or something, a nice bottle of wine would be a nice gesture.

Soap