Kenmare Retired: Can I Give Away the Flowers Given by My Employer?

When Kenmare retires, it's a significant milestone marking the end of a chapter in their professional life. It's common for employers to show appreciation for their long - standing service with gifts, and flowers are a classic and thoughtful choice. However, a question that might arise is whether one can give away the flowers given by the employer.

The Nature of Employer - Given Flowers

Flowers from an employer are more than just a decorative item. They are a symbol of gratitude and recognition. The act of presenting flowers expresses the employer's esteem for the employee's contributions over the years. As a recipient, one might feel a certain sense of obligation or attachment to these flowers due to their symbolic value.

On one hand, they represent a personal acknowledgment from the company. Employers spend time and effort in selecting appropriate flowers, often choosing blooms that convey positive emotions such as appreciation and well - wishes. This personal touch makes the flowers meaningful.

Considering Giving Away the Flowers

There could be various reasons why someone might consider giving away the employer - provided flowers. Firstly, the recipient might have allergies. Having a large bouquet of flowers in the house could trigger allergic reactions, making it uncomfortable for them or other household members. In this case, giving them away might be a practical solution.

Secondly, the recipient may already have an abundance of flowers. If they received multiple floral arrangements from colleagues, friends, or family on the occasion of Kenmare's retirement, it might be difficult to take care of all of them. Giving away some of the flowers can ensure that they do not go to waste and still bring joy to others.

Ethical and Social Considerations

On the ethical front, it's important to think about how the employer might feel if they learned that the flowers they gave were immediately passed on. To some employers, it could seem like the gesture was not truly appreciated. However, if the reason for giving away the flowers is valid, such as allergies or an overwhelming number of arrangements, most employers would likely understand.

From a social perspective, it could also depend on the workplace culture. In some workplaces, where practicality is highly valued, giving away the flowers might be seen as a sensible decision. In other more traditional or sentiment - driven work cultures, it may be perceived as less appropriate.

Best Practices

If you decide to give away the flowers, it might be a good idea to inform someone in the company (perhaps a close colleague) about your situation. You can explain why you are giving away the flowers, such as your allergy or the surplus of arrangements. This way, you can ensure that the gesture of the employer is still respected and that you don't inadvertently cause any negative impressions.

Another option is to take a photo of the flowers and express your gratitude to the employer publicly, for example, in a retirement message or post. This shows that you value the gift, even if you aren't able to keep the physical flowers.

Questions and Answers

1. Is it rude to give away the flowers from my employer? It's not necessarily rude. If you have valid reasons like allergies or an excess of flowers, and you handle the situation tactfully, it can be an acceptable decision. Explaining your circumstances to a colleague can also prevent any misunderstandings.
2. Should I tell my employer directly if I'm giving away the flowers? It's not always necessary to tell the employer directly. You can inform a close colleague who can perhaps relay the message gently if it comes up. However, if you have a very close relationship with your employer, a sincere explanation might work well.
3. What if I give away the flowers and then my employer asks about them? Be honest. Explain your reasons, such as having allergies or too many other floral gifts. Most likely, the employer will understand your situation.
4. Can giving away the flowers affect my relationship with my employer? In most cases, it won't have a negative impact if you handle it properly. If the employer sees that you are being practical and that you still appreciate their gesture in other ways, the relationship should remain unaffected.

In conclusion, whether you can give away the flowers given by your employer when Kenmare retires depends on multiple factors. While the flowers carry symbolic value, practical considerations also come into play. By being sensitive to social and ethical norms and communicating your reasons appropriately, you can make a decision that respects both the employer's gesture and your own situation.