How to Suggest a No-Gift Policy at Work

Dear Savvy,

I am in a management position at my company but not top management. So I was somewhat surprised last year during the holidays, when several of my employees bought me Christmas presents. It was a really lovely gesture and I got some great gifts, but in general, I’m more of a “no gifts please” type of person (I have in the past made that rule about birthday parties.)

With the economic downturn this year, I’d just rather they not stress about it and not get me anything. Is there any way to tell my co-workers “no gifts” without offending them?

Savvy says: You must be a great manager to have so many employees expressing their appreciation through holiday gifts. While their kind gestures are harmless, I completely understand how it could make you uncomfortable, especially if you aren't a gift person in the first place or hadn't intended on giving them gifts in return.