Yep, it's a dreaded 'tradition'. One that is steeped in modernity and needy co-workers desperate for attention and a 'surprise' gift. Secret Santa's ALWAYS suck. But they don't have to.
Ok, so we can't beat around the bush here. There are those that LOVE Secret Santa.
There are.
I also did once. Not anymore, though. Not since 2004.
There was a socks and a razor issue. It's best not to talk about it. The therapy sessions far outweighed the cost of the gift. So it was a genuine 'Lose, Lose' situation.
So when it is the mandate 'season to be jolly', let's look at some things you should do AND those that your probably shouldn't.
Do - bear in mind the preset rules. Such as max. price/value. Seriously, it's important. You can upset the whole equilibrium of the world economy by being a little too ostentatious.
Don't - think that this is a vantage point from which to assuage a promotion or raise. It might happen but probably based on factors such as your performance, attendance, attitude over the year and NOT on your ability to panic buy a budget gift. Unless your employment is based on those particular sets of skills.
Don't - play dumb and avoid the gifting ceremony. If you sign up, show up!
Do - get creative. Think outside of the 'voucher' paradox. But if your crafting skills are terrible, maybe it is best to leave that to the pros.
Don't - be lazy, as per above, at least demonstrate that you have reached the minimum level of giving a sh*t.
Do - stick to the person you drew for. Sure, swapping can make things easier but then we all may as well have just picked to buy for our crush and have done with it.
Do - try to make it personal (not in a passive aggressive 'so you ate all my sweets, here's some of your own sweets') but in a, 'I actually listened when you spoke about your obscure hobby/collection/weekend activity', kind of way.
Don't - be inappropriate...unless it's been agreed that being inappropriate is the point. No one wants to inadvertently open a box of chocolate Santa balls in public.
Do - remain cool as a frosted cucumber, even if you are disappointed that the gift is, essentially, rubbish, albeit tat that's dressed up all fancy. We've all been disappointed. Suck it up, move past it. Chalk it off as practice for the real event.
Don't - if you're making something as a gift, take the first Google DIY item. It will be clear to all that you are a cheapskate, lazy, ass-hat.
Don't - re-gift. Just don't. Recycling/Up-cycling whatever. Don't do it Gloria.
Do - try to find something unique. Offices are a mundane place at the best of times and twelve people unwrapping the same twelve items from the shop down the road, is not a good look.
Don't - take it too seriously. It's supposed to be a time of shits and giggles not hives and high blood pressure.
Do - exercise caution when going 'novelty'. Not everyone will find the Mrs Claus boob apron as hilarious as you do Darren.
© Pexels
Don't - make it about you. Yes, it was a challenge Dorothy. And we are all delighted you overcame the hurdles involved in securing this most wonderful of gifts but, for the love of all that is mighty...SHUT UP.
Do - check for allergies. In this day and age, maybe the voucher paradox IS the way to go, but if you are buying something that is edible, wearable, do check for allergies first.
Don't - be a creep or a letch. Yes it's tempting but don't! It's icky.
Do - wrap the gift. And not like a fish supper, either. Element of surprise and anticipation etc etc.
Don't - buy booze. It can make people uncomfortable AND the individual may be battling demons privately. Err on the side if caution.
Do - Keep it a flipping secret. The clue is in the name after all. Yes, folk will suss out who got what at the 'reveal' but till then, keep schtum.
Don't - leave it to the last minute, Secret Santa members (those that carry membership cards) can smell a panic buy from a mile off.
Do - include a gift receipt. You know, just in case.
