DECEMBER 03

Holiday giving should be appropriate for your work force.

FINDING THE PERFECT GIFT

One manager we talked with proudly announced she had ordered pewter bowls for her employees’ holiday gifts. We asked why, given her largely male, blue-collar employee population. She sighed like we were misguided seven-year-olds and said, “Because everyone loves pewter bowls.”

“Oh,” we replied.

On our next visit, after a holiday season full of complaints from line workers, she had to admit that perhaps her assumption might have been a smidgen off base.

THE MORAL: 

Get to know your employees before you buy your gifts. Be thoughtful, and consider offering a selection of items.