Question:
I have given my housekeeper a Christmas bonus, one week’s pay, the past three or four years. Each year, except this past one, she has acknowledged and verbally thanked me for her bonus. I leave her bonus check on the counter as I am not home when she comes to clean. Am I wrong to be upset that she did not acknowledge my bonus? Do I give her one next year?
-A
My Thoughts:
I know many people who have stopped giving gifts because they did not receive a Thank-you! Keep in mind that gift giving is just that, it’s a ‘gift’.
I don’t think you are wrong to be upset by her lack of acknowledgement. I would wait to make the decision on next year’s ‘gift’. Maybe she will say something or better yet, write you a note in the days to come. If not, when the time arrives, assess the situation. If no thank-you or acknowledgement has occurred, maybe give her a small token, ie candle, candy, etc., in lieu of the money. Or opt for no gift at all.
Another option, write her a note asking if she received the gift (even if they check has been cashed). It would be a great example for her to see the art of the handwritten note in action.
