|
Lately, I have been asked by friends and business associates what gifts are most appropriate this holiday season. Everyone has their own traditions and memories from years past, but there is no doubt that Sept. 11 changed the rules forever - drastically and irrevocably. Never again can freedom be taken for granted.
This holiday season, that message rings louder than ever, even among the South Florida business community. What are the new rules? What is proper protocol this year and how are South Florida businesses coping?
"Everything has changed," states Dennis Collins, senior VP and GM of Jefferson Pilot Communications South Florida. "Unfortunately, it took Sept. 11 to bring us back to reality. We'd lost sight of the real meaning of the holidays."
Getting back to normal is clearly the message, but many wonder if the Secret Santa tradition is appropriate this year. Companies are in a quandary about holiday gifts and office parties. Presents and frivolity just do not feel right.
"Personally," Collins said, "my gifts this year will be more targeted to the individual, more meaningful in every way."
"The economic climate dictates more discretion in gift selection this year," states Karl Eller, chairman and CEO Clear Channel Outdoor. "I think it's time to re-evaluate our intentions and truly give from the heart."
The lavish office party of recent years seems to be a memory for most, replaced by quiet dinners and get-togethers.
"We're definitely toning things down," says Eller. "Economics dictates moderation this holiday season."
But not everyone in South Florida feels this way. Some companies want to reassure and thank their employees. Carnival Cruise Lines VP Maurice Zarmati says it is the right thing to do this year.
"We're giving the same types of gifts we've always given," he said. "Our employees have worked hard this year, and we'll be having parties aboard our newest ships. Our bonuses are protected and we want to let everyone know we appreciate their hard work and loyalty."
Donation to charity
Others are taking a more philanthropic look at the holidays. Kate Reilly, VP of investments at UBS PaineWebber in Miami, is making donations to charities in the names of her relatives, friends and co-workers. Each will receive a certificate stating that a donation has been made to Children's Resources, Animal Welfare, and other worthwhile charities.
"While the September 11 Fund is wonderful, there are many charities that have been left out," says Ms. Reilly. "We have to remember that there are so many others that need our help."
Maroone Honda South Florida GM Bobby Yoxall takes all monies that would be spent on gifts and contributes in the name of family and friends to the Majic Children's Fund.
Martin Press, founding partner of Broad & Cassel in Fort Lauderdale, advocates not sending holiday cards at all.
"We'll donate any monies that would have gone to cards to local charities this year. I think management needs to take the lead and set an example."
The co-worker gift exchange is still encouraged among some companies, but for reasons other than gifts.
"I like the gift exchanges among the different departments," says Collins. "It's up to them how they decide to do it. I think it promotes a sense of camaraderie and teamwork that I think is very important this season. However," he said, "I think parties should be toned down out of respect and due to economics. When people are experiencing lay-offs and salaries are being frozen, lavish celebrations send the wrong signal to everyone."
Yoxall has his own special way to celebrate at the office.
Drawing for supplier gifts
"Suppliers typically want to gift management at the holidays. I direct all gifts to my office, and on the Friday before Christmas we have an office party. We have food, a DJ and a special drawing where the only ones eligible are non-management personnel."
"Imagine the surprise when someone wins a color television or tickets to a Dolphins game," says Yoxall. "This is for those who could never afford these things, and we keep drawing until everyone wins something. It's a good feeling and reminds everyone what the holidays are about."
Most agree that the way to get back to business-as-usual is to honor the significance of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness during this season of giving.
"Let Christmas have special meaning this year," says Press. "That's how to honor those who gave their lives."
"We must move forward," says Dennis Collins. "The evil doers' goal was to disrupt our lives and we can't give them the satisfaction."
"Go about your day-to-day business," states Yoxall. "You can't let this thing get to you. If you do, they win, and we'll never let that happen."
Whatever you decide to do this holiday season, remember it's not the gifts you give, but the act of giving that is most important. Celebrate the holidays with your family, friends and co-workers. It has more meaning than ever this year.
DEBORAH RITCH, president of RitchImage, is a social strategist and offers etiquette seminars. For information, visit www.mannersandimage.com.
|
