Choosing the right gift may seem like a no-brainer to some, but the fact of the matter is that most presents miss their mark. Here's how to ensure maximum satisfaction on the giving and receiving end this holiday season.
AVOID COMMON PITFALLS
~ At the top of the list of reasons why gifts fail to please is that the giver shopped for themselves. While this may be fun for you, keep in mind that not everyone shares your favorite color, taste in decor, fashion sense, choice of literature or sports preferences.
~ Don't let yourself be guided by stereotypes. Not every girl loves pink, frilly clothing. Not every boy wants a football. There are women who would choose an electronic gadget over a necklace any day of the week, and men who would much rather receive a good book than a ticket to a boxing match.
~ Just because a person owns a pet doesn't mean that they long for pet-themed knick-knacks. They might not have much use for that dachshund poster or those cat napkin rings.
~ Some gifts just scream "Generic present!". If you're attending a gift exchange, there's nothing wrong with this. If, on the other hand, you're buying for a specific individual, avoid coffee mugs, baseball caps, mouse pads and so on... unless you know it's on their wish list.
FINDING CLUES
Some people drop clues right and left, but for most, you'll have to play detective. Ask their friends and family what they'd like. Pay attention to what they already own, what they could use and what their interests are.
Does your recipient keep saying, "I've got to get a ... one of these days.", "this ... is ready to fall apart." or "My ... got lost / broke."? There's your gift!
Is their wardrobe heavy on a particular color combination or clothing style? Who's their favorite band, author, artist, sports team or actor? What do they do when they're not at work?
Collectors are easy to buy for. You have access to the Internet, and that means that if something exists, you can probably find it. Add to their collection or buy them a collectors' guide.
When you visit your intended recipient at home, pay attention to what's there and what's missing. Do they apologize for the lack of chairs? Have they decorated in a particular motif? Does the dog have a dog bed? Does the cat have a scratching post?
Organizational aids are usually appreciated. Do the kids have a toy chest? Are the bookshelves and CD towers overflowing? Is it time for a magazine holder? A filing cabinet? A mug rack? A knick-knack shelf?
Does your recipient have a favorite cause? Making a donation in their name serves two purposes: Making them happy and helping others. It doubles your satisfaction, too. However, this option only works for people truly dedicated to a particular non-profit.
Sometimes a homemade gift is treasured more than any store-bought item could ever be. Other times, it isn't a thing your recipient wants at all. Maybe they could use some help finishing a project or learning how to do something. Maybe they're a game enthusiast without anyone to play against. Or maybe they've been meaning to go somewhere, but didn't want to go alone. "Free" gifts can be the best ones of all!
WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS
There's an unspoken rule about gift giving: "Don't ask them what they want." While there are people who would be offended by such a bold question, many others would jump at the opportunity. Kids, in particular, are eager to tell anyone willing to listen exactly what it is that they're wishing for.
If asking is out of the question, try a gift certificate. Choose a business where almost anyone could find something to please them: book stores, movie theaters, department stores, gadget catalogues, music stores and so on. Gift certificates may seem too generic, but recipients are rarely disappointed by them.
Lastly, don't forget to keep the receipt. Let your recipient know that you can exchange their present if it doesn't suit them. If you've followed this guide, however, that's unlikely to happen. Instead, just enjoy the warm feeling you get when you know your gift is truly appreciated. Happy Holidays!
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