‘Tis the season … for office holiday gifting.

Holiday gifting is an area where office workers should tread carefully. Before you buy a gift, you need to consider your co-worker’s values, whether it’s their family, children or their pet. Knowing what he or she appreciates will help you find just the right gift.

Gift cards, books, CDs or DVDs, something for their desk are suitable for gift-giving. Gifts to avoid giving include intimate apparel, jewelry, perfumes and anything scented (you never know who’s allergic to what), food (the recipient might be on a diet) and art (you may think it’s tasteful, your recipient may not).

Avoid humorous gifts that are obscene, sexist or racist. The recipient might think it’s funny, but your other co-workers might be offended.

For the office workers who feels pressured to participate, consider organizing a department lunch or a “goody” day instead of a gift exchange. Have each employee bring a sweet treat in to share, then hand out containers, letting each person fill it up and take it home to share with their families.

When it comes to holiday gifting, here are a few dos and don’ts to find the perfect gift for your co-worker.

Do ask human resources if there are policies about gifting as it might not be allowed.

Do set spending limits.

Do make sure all employees are willing to participate.

Do be careful about buying a gift for your boss. He or she – not to mention your co-workers – may think you’re trying to gain the boss’ favor.

Do consider giving work-related gifts, such a nice pen or a new day planner.

Do give gifts that reflect your co-worker’s tastes, interests and values.

Don’t try to impress your co-workers by spending a lot of money on a gift.

Don’t give liquor to your recipient unless you know he or she drinks.

Don’t give inappropriate gifts such as intimate apparel.

Don’t make a scene when you give the recipient his or her gift. Giving a gift isn’t a time to show off for others.