Christmas gifts - the rules of the road

The exchange of Christmas gifts can be fraught with difficulties. How do you behave when someone gives you a present you don’t want? Should you buy a little something for your boss or your child’s teacher? How much should you spend?

To help you to avoid the common pitfalls, we’ve come up with a selection of Christmas gift etiquette top tips.

Always show gratitude

You may have been given a book you’ve already read, or a pullover that’s perfectly hideous but always try to make your first reaction one of pleasure - then ask for the receipt. There’s nothing wrong with being honest, and to be fair, a gift stuffed to the back of the wardrobe is a waste of the giver’s money. But the way that you respond is extremely important - try this: ‘Wow, I love this author, that’s such a great choice. Actually I’ve read this one, but there’s another I’m just dying to get my hands on - do you mind if I exchange it?’

Set a budget

We live in tough economic times, so be honest about what you can afford to spend and discuss the issue with family and close friends. The chances are that they’ll be relieved - many of us are in the same boat. Agree a budget and stick to it or the joy of Christmas will be ruined by worries about where you’re going to find the money to pay for your purchases.

Don’t indulge in ‘gift wars’

Trying to ‘keep up with the Jones’’ can have a very negative influence on your bank balance and can spoil a perfectly good friendship. Resist the temptation to outdo friends and relations by buying them ever more extravagant gifts. Remember that when it comes to gift giving, it’s the thought that counts: you’re showing the person that you care about them.,

Don’t go over the top

If you are in the fortunate position of having plenty of money to spend this Christmas, then resist the temptation to shower family and friends with expensive gifts. Your big-hearted gesture could be misinterpreted as showing off or and perhaps worse, you may make the recipient feel inadequate if they are unable to return your generosity. Keep your focus on the people you are buying for, and enjoy the giving.

To regift or not to regift

It’s a tricky question but if you do decide to pass on gifts made to you then make sure you check thoroughly that the item is in ‘brand new’ condition. Check also that there is no connection whatsoever between the original giver and the new recipient. If in doubt, don’t do it: if discovered you’ll cause offense. If you do decide that it is safe to recycle an unwanted gift, keep its provenance strictly to yourself, or risk being seen as a cheapskate.

A gift for the boss?

It’s fine to give a Christmas gift to your boss if you wish to but there are a couple of things to beware of. First, never try to outdo your boss buy buying him or her an expensive present - you’ll appear to be sucking up which can cause awkwardness - and your colleagues won’t like you for it either. Second, it’s probably best to avoid inappropriate gifts as they could cause embarrassment or even offense.

Shop less

Browsing the shops at Christmas time can be an unpleasant experience. High pressure on sale staff to achieve good results can easily be passed on to the customer. Here at DotComGiftShop, browsing is easy, leisurely and we can even take care of postage too. We’re sure you’ll find the perfect gift to suit your taste and your wallet.

DotComGiftShop - taking care of all your Christmas gift conundrums