❓ Frequently asked questions about colleague gifts
Everything you want to know about giving a gift to a colleague in the Netherlands, in one place. From how much to spend to what to buy for someone you barely know. Each answer links to the page with concrete ideas.
What is a good gift for a colleague?
Something that suits the person and the occasion. Base it on a hobby or on their office type, and stick to the usual amount for that moment. Original and light-hearted beats expensive and anonymous.
How much do you spend on a colleague in the Netherlands?
It depends on the occasion. For a birthday, 2 to 5 euros per person is normal. For a farewell it is 5 to 10 euros, and for a retirement 5 to 15 euros. Our etiquette page lists them all.
What do you give a colleague you barely know?
Go for something safe and gender-neutral: something tasty, a plant, a funny gadget or a handy desk accessory. For a group gift, contribute the same amount as everyone else so nobody feels awkward.
What is a good farewell gift for a colleague?
Something that refers to your time together: a memory book filled in by the team, a nod to a running joke, or something for the new job. A personal farewell gift with a card beats an expensive but anonymous present.
Is it normal to chip in together at Dutch offices?
Yes, it is the default. Usually the direct team or department joins in, five to fifteen people, each contributing an equal and modest amount. One person buys the gift and the rest transfer their share.
What do you write on the card?
Keep it short and personal. Name one concrete memory or quality and close warmly. On a group card, everyone writes their own line rather than only signing their name.
Do you give something to your manager?
You can, but keep it modest and preferably on behalf of the team. Choose something neutral and not too personal, so it does not come across as awkward or as currying favour.
Can you refuse a gift from a colleague?
Accepting politely is usually easiest, even if it is not to your taste. A sincere thank-you is enough. If something feels genuinely inappropriate, say so calmly and privately, outside the group.
What is the usual Secret Santa budget in the Netherlands?
At most Dutch offices it is between 5 and 15 euros per name. The exact figure is agreed with the group beforehand so it stays equal and relaxed for everyone.
More about secret santa at the office: everything you need to know →
How do you organise Secret Santa with your team?
Collect the names of everyone taking part, draw anonymously, agree on an amount and an unwrapping moment. Everyone buys within budget and on the day the parcels are opened and guessed.
More about secret santa at the office: everything you need to know →
What is a good Secret Santa gift?
Something within the agreed amount that gets a laugh when unwrapped. Ugly Christmas socks, a funny gadget, something tasty or a nod to a hobby. Personal and light beats expensive and serious.
More about secret santa at the office: everything you need to know →
What if you have no wish list?
Choose something universal: something tasty, an office game or ugly Christmas socks. Or take the gift quiz and pick by office type. A small idea that lands beats an expensive guess.
More about secret santa at the office: everything you need to know →
When should you start organising?
A few weeks before the Christmas drinks. That gives everyone time to draw and to order in time. Mid-November is a comfortable starting point, especially with people working from home.
More about secret santa at the office: everything you need to know →
What if someone does not want to join?
Taking part is always voluntary. Leave anyone who prefers not to out of the draw; pressure takes the fun out of it. Agree the amount with the group that does join.
More about secret santa at the office: everything you need to know →
Can you go over the agreed amount?
Stay as close to the agreement as you can. Going well over makes it uncomfortable for the others. A couple of euros extra is fine, but keep it in the same range.
More about secret santa at the office: everything you need to know →
What is white elephant?
A variant where you may steal each other's parcels. Everyone takes a turn picking a parcel or stealing one that is already open. Great fun with bigger groups, but agree in advance how often stealing is allowed.
More about secret santa at the office: everything you need to know →
Want more? Read the complete gift guide, the gift etiquette, or take the gift quiz.