A gift for a colleague without it getting awkward
Short answer: Stick to something neutral and impersonal. Underwear and nightwear do not belong at work. Socks and towels do.
Neutral rather than personal
A gift that sits close to the body easily becomes too personal. See bamboo socks for men.
Avoid sizes
A gift in the wrong size is awkward to return between colleagues. See bamboo towels.
The price should match the relationship
Too expensive a gift obliges the recipient. Keep it modest. See bamboo socks for women.
Something used beats something displayed
Colleagues remember what they use, not what they put away. See bamboo bed linen.
Frequently asked questions
What do you give a colleague?
Something neutral without a size and at a modest price. Socks and towels work well.
Can you give a colleague underwear?
Rarely a good idea. It is too close to the body for a working relationship.
How expensive should the gift be?
Modest. Too expensive a gift obliges the recipient to reciprocate and becomes awkward.
