Grab bags work well as office gifts.

Not quite close friends and far more than acquaintances, many of our co-workers exist in a unique relationship middle ground. We see them almost every day and often form bonds, but there are also social complications that can arise due to rank, seniority and other workplace factors. When holiday time rolls around, it can be difficult to know exactly what is expected of us, particularly regarding gift-giving. In what instances are holiday gifts appropriate, and what sorts of gifts are best?

Pamela Fiori became editor in chief of Town & Country, America's oldest continuously published general-interest magazine, in 1993. Prior to this she served as the executive vice-president and editorial director at American Express Publishing Corporation where she oversaw all editorial operations of their magazines, including Travel & Leisure, Food & Wine, and Departures. Here she offers her advice on giving gifts to co-workers:

• Direct reports. Fiori believes that it is important to show your gratitude to the people who work closely with you, particularly your direct reports. She always gives gifts to her assistant and those she works with on a regular basis.

• Special favors. She also buys gifts for people who work in the company and have gone out of their way to give her help or assistance during the year.

• Grab bags. If you feel uncomfortable buying personalized gifts for people in the office, or if you're worried that people might feel left out, a grab bag can be a great solution. Simply wrap up small gifts that are appropriate for anyone, and have your office friends or co-workers choose a package at random.

• Ideas. Key rings, scarves, pins or a CD of holiday music can make good office gifts. If you want to get more personal, buy a book that you're sure the person will love. Remember that it's the thought that counts, and that showing a little gratitude and appreciation is an easy but important thing to do at holiday time.

Town & Country
magazines.ivillage.com/townandcountry/

e-Corporate Gifts
www.e-corporategifts.com

Corp Gifts Network
www.corp-gifts.net

April's Business Gift Ideas
www.christmas-gift-ideas.info/businessgifts.htm

Bremer Communications: Office Gift-Giving Etiquette
www.bremercommunications.com/Gift_Giving.htm