Office Functions - Should I Donate?

Do you find yourself having to dish out cash for a function that you either don't want to attend or feel that you haven't known the person that's retiring, having a baby, etc. for a long time?

Most people actually feel this way, since if they just started working with the firm, it can be quite embarrassing and uncomfortable. Just tell the person that's in charge of the event that you would like to contribute something, but feel that you haven't known the person for long enough and would not like to participate. Make sure to do this as a one-on-one conversation and ask the person to keep it confidential.

If, on the other hand, you are willing to participate in these functions, here are some quick guidelines to keep things in line:

• Ask staff members to contribute a voluntary amount, instead of specifying an exact figure. This will make them feel more comfortable by contributing what they want.
• Send out an anonymous envelope or general e-mail to all staff members, so they feel more comfortable in donating. A personal approach will hinder this request.
• Check with your firm's management or Human Resources representative if they would be willing to hold quarterly events to encourage team building. My firm actually has this on a semi-monthly basis and seems to be working quite well. Once a year, we even have a "Fun Day", just to sit back, relax, BBQ, etc.

Follow these simple guidelines and your staff members will be more than happy to donate towards these functions.

If you have any questions, suggestions or comments, please feel free to click on the "comments" link below and leave some feedback. If you are reading this via feed or e-mail, please click on the title link and post your comment via web.

Until next time,

Take care - of your clutter!