Every December, Reader, millions of professionals around the world agonize over one simple question:

Should I give gifts to my coworkers?

It's tricky to answer. But I'll try anyway.

Here's my mental model for giving gifts at work.

First of all, everybody appreciates appreciation. If you've had a great experience working with someone this year--or even if it's been a little bumpy but you've welcomed how they've shown up--consider some form of appreciation.

I'm not a fan of giving food or drink unless you specifically know a person's appetites. I also strongly suggest not sending branded merch like water bottles or mugs--anything with YOUR brand on it isn't appreciation for THEM.

But showing appreciation doesn't have to mean buying anything at all. It can be as simple as a handwritten card--something I think we overlook. If you're stumped as to what to say, try a script like this:

Hey NAME--before the year ends, I just wanted to thank you once more for being a great (coworker/colleague/client/customer/etc.) this year. I've appreciated having you in my work world, and look forward to continuing our partnership in 2025.

Easy, right? Don't underestimate the value of the hand-written note or card. They get saved--and savored.

Bonus points if you can mail a card to their home. 🏠 📫That way, their spouse or children can also see how important their loved one is to someone at work. ❤️

I've listed some other easy, last-minute gifts for those in your professional life here:

​Read: What to Give People At Work: Unexpected Holiday Ideas for Professionals​

So what about you, Reader? What's the best form of holiday appreciation you ever received? Hit REPLY and tell me--I always love to hear from you.

Don't forget--a copy of my book "Red Cape Rescue: Save Your Career Without Leaving Your Job" also makes a great present for the person contemplating their career. It now has 100 reviews on Amazon (go check it out--keep the momentum going and write a review if you've read it too!)

Plus, if you're in the US and want a personalized copy signed by me, hit REPLY before December 18 and I'll send you details on how to get one sent directly to you or your loved one.

Happy gifting, and know I appreciate every second you spend here with me. We need you in our world of work--thanks for soaring together!

Always, Darcy

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P.S. One of my professional goals this year was to get published in more mainstream business publications. So it was exciting to get this article published by Fast Company last week, called How to Decide When to Let an Underperformer Go. I'd appreciate it if you'd give it a read, since Fast Company tracks the popularity of their articles and a few more clicks never hurt! --D

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