The giving of gifts is popular both in personal and professional circumstances. No matter which one, there are certain things expected of you when receiving or refusing a gift according to the rules of etiquette.
When receiving a gift, it is appropriate to immediately thank the giver in person or by telephone if possible. If the gift was sent to you, it is common practice to send a handwritten thank-you note on either stationery or a nice note card. In a business circumstance, a telephone call may be disturbing a meeting or other activity, so a note may be preferred. Within your thank-you, mention what you like about your gift and how it will be used. If you dislike the gift, thank them for their remembrance or thoughtfulness without specifically praising the gift. It is then up to you if it will be kept, returned to the store, or given away. In a business note, do not mix other business matters with your thank-you message.
The rejecting of a gift is only done in business situations when the gift is viewed as unappropriate. Some companies have strict policies regarding the acceptance of gifts. Other times, the gift may simply be too expensive or extravagant when seen in terms of your relationship with the giver. Any gift with sexual overtones or an obvious bribe should be returned to the sender immediately. Return all unappropriate gifts with an explanation, as the sender may be hurt or embarrassed. You may thank them for their thoughtfulness, or praise the gift but explain why it cannot be kept, such as company policy forbids it.
About the
author:
Lisa LeClaire is the owner of Fundamental Expressions Gift Baskets http://www.fegifts.com
and the publisher of The Gift Grapevine E-Zine. Deliver your expression
and leave an impression!
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