Oh yes, it is almost that time again. The days are getting shorter, the office heating is set just a notch too high, and somewhere in the hallway the ominous word is dropped: secret santa. As the unofficial pivot of the office—sure, they might call it management assistant or secretary, but we both know I just run the place—I get to organise the christmas draw again this year. And to be honest: I love it, but it brings the exact same frustrations every year.
Let's be completely honest: who doesn't recognise this? You draw the slip of a colleague you hardly ever speak to, let alone know whether they like tea, books, or socks. Or even worse: someone gets a jar of hand cream for the third time in a row that gives you the chills. This year, we are doing things differently. No panic buying at the last minute during your lunch break, but a solid plan of action.
Start drawing names on time
Let's face it, december is busy enough with deadlines that need to be met before the year is out. Therefore, start drawing names on time. If you only do this halfway through december, you will be in trouble. By the time everyone knows who they are buying for, the first sick leaves and holidays are already starting. My guideline: start at the end of november, so everyone can shop with peace of mind.
Agree on a clear budget
Money is always a sensitive subject in the workplace. One person happily spends fifty euro, while another thinks ten is already more than enough. To prevent awkward looks or situations at the coffee machine, we set a fixed budget in advance. Keep it reasonable. After all, it's about the gesture and the cosiness during our annual christmas drink, not about who can bring the most expensive bottle of wine.
Prevent double gifts with a handy list
The biggest mystery of secret santa: what on earth do you give someone who seemingly has everything? In the past, I used to walk around with scraps of paper asking if anyone secretly knew something. Until I decided to make it a lot easier for myself and all those sweet colleagues. Nowadays, we simply use ListeDeNoel.be for the entire team.
It works simply: everyone fills out their wish list online. Colleague A puts that specific coffee mug on it, colleague B secretly longs for that one cookbook. When you draw a name, you take a look at the list. That way you know for sure you are doing it right. Another big advantage: you can reserve gifts. This prevents pete from accounting from getting the exact same socks three times. No one sees who has reserved what, so the surprise remains completely intact.
Make it a fun moment
The unboxing itself is of course the highlight. Plan a fixed afternoon or the friday afternoon drinks for the reveal. Provide some treats—I always get those good speculoos from the bakery around the corner myself—and let everyone take turns giving their gift. Give a short explanation as to why you chose this for that person. That always brings laughter and breaks the ice, even with that grumpy colleague from administration.
With good preparation, clear agreements, and a handy digital list, office secret santa suddenly becomes a party instead of a chore. I am completely ready for it this year. Now it's your turn!