Julie Lamberg-Burnet's advice on buying the perfect Christmas gift for your colleagues

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Julie Lamberg-Burnet shares her tips for giving the perfect gifts at work
She says not to buy expensive or personal gifts for your boss
She also suggests having back up presents ready just in case
Handwriting notes and cards are always a good present idea
Never be afraid to play it safe with candles and gift vouchers

Published: 00:19 EST, 1 December 2016 | Updated: 00:24 EST, 1 December 2016

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Many employees find themselves stumped when it comes to buying presents for their colleagues.

Whether it's the office Secret Santa or selecting a small token of appreciation for your boss, picking something suitable can be a challenge.

Here, etiquette guru and founder of the Sydney School of Protocol, Julie Lamberg-Burnet, reveals her tips for how you can avoid any awkwardness and pick the perfect presents this Christmas.

Get it right: Here, etiquette guru and founder of the Sydney School of Protocol, Julie Lamberg-Burnet, reveals her tips for how you can avoid any awkwardness in the office this Christmas

DON'T BUY ANYTHING TOO PERSONAL FOR YOUR BOSS

Although it does depend on your relationship with your boss, it's always best to play it safe with your choice of gift.

'For the boss, a small gift that may be taken home is appropriate,' Ms Lamberg-Burnet said.

'Nothing that is either highly individual or personal and requires an explanation to the manager’s family/partner or colleagues is appropriate.

'Alternatively coordinate and purchase one gift from everyone in the office. This gets over any awkwardness about individual gifting.'

Simple: Ms Lamberg-Burnet suggests avoiding overly expensive gifts so as not to embarrass your colleagues or boss

TIPS FOR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING

Give the gift of "time". Shop for something that you think the other person will like. Alternatively give something no one would ever buy for themselves.

- Consider peoples interests and take time to select the most appropriate gift and match the gift to the person. The perfect present requires special consideration.

- Beautifully presented gifts and cards show you have taken care and time to present a personal touch. Remember to check that receipts and price tags are not included in the gift-wrapping to avoid an awkward moment when the parcel is opened.

- Handwritten cards and notes reveal a lot about your style and thoughtfulness in this digital environment – taking time to write a personal note will pay off and be well received.

DON'T BUY EXPENSIVE PRESENTS

Ms Lamberg-Burnet suggests avoiding overly expensive gifts so as not to embarrass your colleagues or boss.

'Play it safe with gift vouchers, candles, books, or edibles and be mindful of the person’s cultural background,' she said.

'For example, it may not be appropriate to give alcohol. It is the thought that counts rather than the magnitude of the gift.'

PREPARE BACK UP PRESENTS

It's important to be prepared for any awkward encounters - including receiving a gift unexpectedly.

'A useful strategy is to have a few gifts such as chocolates, notepaper and small fun reference books, (beautifully wrapped) tucked away as a back up, for those surprise moments,' Ms Lamberg-Burnet said.

'Remember you do not need to be prepared with a gift for everyone. If you receive a gift from someone you were not expecting to, a thank you note showing your appreciation is perfectly appropriate.'

'Sometimes a simple handwritten note or card is more than enough': Sometimes a simple handwritten note or card is more than enough.

WRITE OUT A CARD

Sometimes a simple handwritten note or card is more than enough.

'You will make an even greater impression with a handwritten note or card, thanking your boss/manager for their support during the year,' Ms Lamberg-Burnet said.

'If applicable, a personal note that may apply to an individual work experience where the manager was supportive is a great idea too.'

INCLUDE EVERYONE

As a boss or a team member, if you work in a small team buying a gift for each person is a nice gesture.

'Keep it simple and similar for each person, to avoid "unwanted" and embarrassing comparisons behind the scenes,' Ms Lamberg-Burnet said.

'For a large team, rather than individual gifts, delight them with a surprise cake or Christmas cookies to share over a morning or afternoon tea.'