The Dos and Don’ts of Gift-Giving Etiquette

If you’re like most people, you’ve probably been in a situation where you’ve given a gift to someone only to have them give you a less-than-enthusiastic response. Maybe they didn’t quite know how to react, or maybe they really didn’t like the gift. Either way, it can be awkward. To avoid these types of situations, it’s important to understand gift-giving etiquette. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind the next time you’re looking for the perfect gift.

The Dos of Gift-Giving Etiquette:

• Do take into consideration the relationship you have with the person. A good rule of thumb is to spend more on closer friends and family and less on acquaintances.
• Do make sure the gift is appropriate for the occasion. A good rule of thumb is to stick to practical items for major life events such as graduations or weddings and save the more personal items for birthdays or Christmas.
• Do consider their age and stage in life. This ties in with their interests, but also think about whether they are just starting out or are more established in their career or life.
• Do try to find something unique that fits the person’s interests. A thoughtful gift will be much appreciated.
• Do consider the person’s interests and hobbies when choosing a gift. If they’re into sports, get them something related to their favorite team or player. Get them a cookbook or a new kitchen gadget if they’re into cooking. The key is to put some thought into it, so they know you care.
• Do wrap the gift nicely. Even if it is just a simple gift, wrapping it up nicely will show that you care.
• Do include a card with a personal message. A handwritten note goes a long way.
• Do make sure you are not re-gifting! Nothing is worse than receiving a gift that was meant for someone else.

The Don’ts of Gift-Giving Etiquette:

• Don’t wait until the last minute! Not following this gift-giving etiquette tip will result in you rushing around and possibly forgetting to get a gift altogether.
• Don’t give a gift inappropriate for the occasion or the person. For example, avoid giving racy items to someone you don’t know well or white elephant gifts to a close friend.
• Avoid giving cheesy gifts such as gag gifts or anything that could be construed as insulting. This includes items inferior to what they currently have, such as an “upgrade” from their current phone to a brick with a cord attached.
• Don’t spend too much or too little money on the gift. Find a happy medium so as not to appear cheap or overly generous.
• Never give someone a gift meant for someone else, such as clothing that is the wrong size or style or tickets to an event that has already passed. Not following this gift-giving etiquette tip shows that you didn’t bother to pay attention to what they like or what would be appropriate for them.
• Don’t overthink it! If you are stumped, a safe bet is always a gift card so they can choose something themselves.
• Don’t give something that you want or would like to receive yourself. It can be tempting to give someone a gift that you would like to receive yourself, but resist the urge!
• Don’t re-gift! We cannot stress this enough. Nothing says “I don’t care about you” like receiving a recycled present.

Gift-giving can be tricky, but following these etiquette tips will help ensure that your friends and loved ones will receive your gifts. Remember, it’s the thought that counts! So take some time to consider what would be an appropriate and thoughtful gift for your next special occasion.