gift for boss after he got me a raise and promotion

A reader writes:

My boss got me a spot raise and a promotion this year. I’d like to give him a gift–is it appropriate? I was thinking either a bottle of booze or one of those inspirational prints (the former being old school and latter being wimpy/politically correct). What kind of gift do you think is appropriate? Obviously the first thing I should do is to continue deliver results for the company ;>

Hmmm, I wouldn’t give him a gift. After all, you earned that raise and promotion! A gift doesn’t feel right.

However, what I would love in his shoes (far more than even a bottle of booze) is a heartfelt note telling him that you appreciate that he went to bat for you, as well as noting anything else you appreciate about working with him. That would have a lot more meaning and I’d keep it for years. Being the boss can be a thankless job; when people notice the ways you’ve helped them, it really feels great.

{ 10 comments… read them below }

  1. M*

    The best "gift" you can give to you boss after a promotion is to perform at your best in your new job role.

  2. Anonymous*

    Well said, M. Do good work and make him look good, and you've given an awesome, unique gift.

  3. A Girl Named Me*

    Letting the manager know how much you appreciate the opportunity is the perfect thank you. No doubt.

  4. Anonymous*

    Maybe this is just me, but I'd rather have the booze.

    I'm not the type of guy who appreciates kind words. Words are cheap. If you really appreciate it, work hard.

    Want to thank me? A bottle of whiskey is a great, concrete thank you.

    I guess different people draw from different things, but at the end of a long day I'd rather have a nice stiff drink then read through a sappy note.

  5. Leslie*

    Amen, AAM. Do your best in your new position to validate his efforts on your behalf, but for now bolster the relationship with a note of thanks.

  6. hjoshua*

    As a blue blooded American Male, I'm going to say that a bottle of booze will go a LONG way in terms of thank yous.

  7. Kathleen Gentry*

    May Peace be your gift at Christmas and your blessing all year through! Your text is really appreciable!

  8. Veli Mfetane Mfetane*

    In our companies policy, gift are not allowed. A manager needs to declare any gift offered. An employee paid for a 1 night accommodation for the manager who promoted him and the manager did not declare this gift and the manager was dismissed.

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