Going-Away Gift

February 8, 2005 4:07 PM

EmploymentFilter: I'm leaving a professional position tomorrow after eight months and the requisite two weeks' notice. It hasn't been a particularly good match for me (skills, interests, etc...) but my boss has nevertheless been a good guy to work for and has both tried to find ways to use my background and skills, and to give me opportunities to learn more. Once, in passing, he mentioned a bottle of whisky he was about to try. Should I get him one to say "thanks," since I don't think there are any alcohol sensitivity issues?

Any other quitting ettiquette tips are appreciated too. Thanks!

posted by piro to Work & Money (15 answers total)

Sure. I'm sure he would appreciate it--it's a really kind gesture.
posted by josh at 4:08 PM on February 8, 2005

It can never hurt have the wheels greased when he gets a call as a reference. The only problem is something like whiskey might be gone before he gets the reference call. :-D
posted by shepd at 4:15 PM on February 8, 2005

Yes.
Especially if a good boss. Just good karma.
posted by nj_subgenius at 4:29 PM on February 8, 2005

Whyever not?
It's always good if you can leave a job (or anywhere) on good terms.
posted by SoftRain at 4:41 PM on February 8, 2005

When you leave you may be asked to fill out a form about the company by HR. Even if they don't ask your opinion, send an e-mail to HR backing your feelings up about your boss because it won't point to him for moving on.
posted by thomcatspike at 4:46 PM on February 8, 2005

Can't hurt. Alcohol's not really a risque gift.
posted by Krrrlson at 4:56 PM on February 8, 2005

Why not? But put it in a gift box before you bring it to work.
posted by WestCoaster at 5:12 PM on February 8, 2005

Absolutely. It's a nice parting gift, and you know that he will enjoy it, given that he has mentioned this whisky before.
posted by seawallrunner at 5:14 PM on February 8, 2005

Yes.

Buy me one too.
posted by mwhybark at 5:17 PM on February 8, 2005

Don't forget a hand written note saying thanks for the guidance etc.
posted by arse_hat at 5:45 PM on February 8, 2005

Great idea. Leaving on a good note will make you and your still employed coworkers feel a lot better. This good feeling can really motivate you for a job hunt, if one is required.
posted by sled at 5:47 PM on February 8, 2005

Write a note telling him what you said above, and give him the gift. Doing a really nice thing is really cool, and the karma is a bonus for you.
posted by theora55 at 6:10 PM on February 8, 2005

There's no better way to forge a lasting long term relationship with a fellow who appreciates uisge-bibble, than to present him with a bottle of the stuff.

There is absolutely no risk associated with this simple, yet profound gesture.

You listening, Whybark?
posted by jimfl at 7:56 PM on February 8, 2005

When you leave you may be asked to fill out a form about the company by HR. Even if they don't ask your opinion, send an e-mail to HR backing your feelings up about your boss because it won't point to him for moving on.

I would also send that same e-mail to his boss, as well as giving him the booze. I don't know about your company, but mine is large enough that HR wouldn't care all that much and sending HR knowing that he was a great boss wouldn't really affect anything. If his boss knows though, that might have a direct effect.
posted by hootch at 8:14 PM on February 8, 2005

As a boss, I think this would be a fine gesture. Parting on good terms tends to work out well for all parties involved.
posted by mosch at 12:00 AM on February 9, 2005