Ennis Retired. Can I Give Away the Flowers My Employer Gave Me?

When an employee like Ennis retires, it is a common gesture for employers to present them with flowers as a token of appreciation for their long - term service and dedication. This leads to a question that might cross someone's mind: can I give away the flowers my employer gave me?

The Significance of Employer - Given Flowers

Flowers from an employer carry a certain significance. They are a symbol of gratitude and recognition for the work one has done during their tenure at the company. They often come with well - wishes for the retiree's new chapter in life. These flowers represent a positive relationship between the employer and the employee, and they might also be accompanied by a personalized card or note, adding an extra layer of sentiment.

Reasons for Wanting to Give Away the Flowers

There could be several valid reasons for wanting to give away the flowers. Maybe you have allergies and keeping the flowers in your environment could cause physical discomfort. Or perhaps you have no space to properly display them, and you don't want them to wilt away unnoticed. It is also possible that you know someone who could really use a pick - me - up, and the flowers would bring a smile to their face.

Considerations Before Giving Away the Flowers

Before making the decision to give away the flowers, there are a few things to consider. First, think about the cultural and social context. In some cultures, giving away a gift directly might be seen as disrespectful, as it undermines the thought and gesture behind the original gift. Second, take into account the relationship with your employer. If the employer put a lot of effort into choosing the flowers, giving them away might seem unappreciative. It could potentially damage the professional relationship, especially if your employer finds out about it.

Appropriate Ways to Handle the Situation

If you decide that giving away the flowers is the best option, there are appropriate ways to do it. You could express your gratitude to your employer verbally or in writing. Then, you could explain your situation, for example, that you have allergies or limited space. You can also give them an assurance that their thoughtfulness was deeply appreciated. You could suggest that instead of the physical flowers, you'd like to have a digital picture of the flowers to remember the kind gesture. If you do give away the flowers, you can offer to share feedback from the recipient, letting your employer know that their gift brought joy to someone else.

Related Questions and Answers

1. Is it always inappropriate to give away the flowers my employer gave me?

   No, it is not always inappropriate. There are valid reasons such as allergies or lack of space. However, it is important to handle the situation carefully and communicate your reasons appropriately to avoid any misinterpretation.

2. What if my employer doesn't care whether I keep or give away the flowers?

   If you have a clear indication that your employer doesn't mind, then you can freely give away the flowers. But it is still a good practice to express your appreciation for the gesture.

3. Is it better to tell my employer before or after I give away the flowers?

   It is generally better to tell your employer before giving away the flowers. This shows transparency and respect for their gift. You can explain your reasons and get their understanding.

4. Can giving away the flowers damage my future professional relationship with the employer?

   It might if not handled properly. But if you communicate your reasons effectively and show that you genuinely appreciated the gesture, it is unlikely to cause significant damage.

Conclusion

The decision of whether to give away the flowers your employer gave you when Ennis retired is a delicate one. It depends on various factors such as cultural norms, your relationship with your employer, and your own circumstances. By considering all these aspects and handling the situation with respect and transparency, you can make a decision that is appropriate and does not harm the professional relationship. Maintaining good communication throughout the process is key to ensuring that your employer understands your reasons and that your appreciation for their gesture remains clear.