📺 Stream EntrepreneurTV for Free 📺

The 10 Weirdest Office Holiday Gifts Unsure what, if anything, to give colleagues? Cheer up. You can't do much worse than this.

By Anne Fisher

entrepreneur daily

This story originally appeared on Fortune Magazine

It's the thought that counts, of course, but some gifts make you wonder, "What were they thinking?" The Creative Group, a marketing and advertising staffing firm, asked 400 executives to recall the most peculiar holiday presents they've received from coworkers. A sampling of the answers:

  • "A little flying helicopter for the team to share."
  • "Caped teddy bears."
  • "A water gun that shoots marshmallows."
  • "A beard grooming kit for women."
  • "A muumuu."
  • "A goofy cat statue."
  • "A toilet seat cover."
  • "Molds of chocolate shaped like body parts."
  • "A bobblehead of the boss."
  • "Opera tickets. I hate opera."

Then there are those gifts that come with ulterior motives, like the "bottle of tequila with a resume taped to it" that landed on one manager's desk.

"The best gifts reflect the recipient's tastes and interests," notes Diane Domeyer, the Creative Group's executive director. "If you question whether or not something is appropriate, it probably isn't."

Keep it "small but thoughtful," she adds. "Lavish presents can make people uncomfortable." A few examples that had recipients looking for strings attached: "A cruise to the Caribbean"; "The keys to my client's villa to use on my vacation"; and "A beautiful box with a stack of $100 bills and a thank-you card."

Speaking of $100 bills, an overwhelming 96% of about 5,000 executives and employees in a separate survey by CareerBuilder said they'd rather receive a cash bonus from their employer than a holiday party. Yet fewer than half of employers (47%) plan to pay holiday bonuses this season, according to the same poll, a slight increase over last year's 45%.

CareerBuilder also turned up some odd presents that people have received from coworkers. Three of the most baffling: A fire extinguisher, a set of zombie action figures, and a bag of chips. Gosh, you shouldn't have. Really.

Anne Fisher is the "Ask Annie" columnist & management/workplace contributor for Fortune.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Editor's Pick

Growing a Business

10 Big Ways to Shine for National Small Business Week (and 5 Things to Avoid)

Every year, the U.S. Small Business Administration takes time to honor America's top small businesses. As one of the country's 33 million small businesses, you are the engine of the nation's economy. Share your story and grow new business by leveraging your connection with your community.

Leadership

Why These 5 Characteristics of Self-Reliance Will Guarantee Your Success

There are five characteristics that are inherent in self-reliance: taking initiative and innovating, adaptability and agility, trusting your instincts, leadership, and having a growth mindset.

Business News

James Clear Explains Why the 'Two Minute Rule' Is the Key to Long-Term Habit Building

The hardest step is usually the first one, he says. So make it short.

Health & Wellness

You Won't Be a Successful Entrepreneur Until You Adopt These 3 Habits

Being an entrepreneur is a marathon, not a sprint!

Science & Technology

How to Use Tech to Save Your Restaurant Money and Help Turn First-Time Patrons Into Loyal Customers

Noble Restaurant Group Director of IT William Connors explains how using Toast's point of sale and management system has transformed their business.

Franchise

Transforming Your Passion Into Impact — Discover the Top 15 Franchises Shaping Children's Futures

Looking to make a real impact in kids' lives while running a successful business? Check out the top 15 children's franchises, according to the 2024 Franchise 500.