Empathize With The Retiree: Find The Perfect Retirement Gift
Every working man and woman loves to discuss with friends what they will do after they retire. Climb the Swiss Alps, go in an African Safari or hit that perfect stroke in the fairway. The list is endless, and it depends with each person.
But when they finally do hit retirement, a bittersweet feeling rather than an excited one will prevail. One may find the feeling of freedom in expense of a family in work that you have shared both sweet and tough times together. Questions will pop up if too much freedom is actually harmful, and if their old partners and coworkers would even talk to them again.
It is important that one gives an exceptional retirement gift to help them cope up with a new stage in life, which should be welcomed with open arms rather than doubt. A keepsake that helps the retiree remember what he/she has stood for or loved for the past three decades.
Steps
A crucial first step in finding the perfect retirement gift is to recognize what their personality traits and interests are. Finding out what ticks off or pleases the retiree is important as much as focusing on their interests.
For example, a person who loves hockey and relishes on eating desserts may be given a simple chiffon cake with icing that forms a hockey stick and puck. So to speak, it is best that when choosing a gift, ideas should be formed from a blend that represents the retiree's persona and likes.
Second is that one should watch their budget. Finding a gift that is expensive isn't necessary. For the childish retiree, something as simple as a Mickey Mouse watch will suffice; it also helps form smiles and laughter across the room. Videos that highlight a retiree's favorite sports player in his/her most important moment, where the player either hits the game-winning shot in a basketball game or an unbelievable shot in the Masters is also a non-expensive and wonderful gift for the retiree.
For acquaintances in the company, an autograph book can be done. Each worker will put his/her signature with a heartfelt message or testimonial can help the retiree get some closure. If one day, the retiree is beginning to miss his/her job. He/she can skim through the autograph book and remember everything about in a few minutes.
Third, if one has pockets deep enough, fun and lighthearted pranks can be made. Funny retirement gags like a plaque commemorating the retirement, with inscriptions similar to the ones we see on buildings which speak about the "retiree's inauguration". One may even sprinkle holy water on the retiree for added affect. It is a general rule that anyone remembers a funny gag more than a thoughtful item, so pull one off in the party if you can.
Conclusion
Magazine subscriptions, funny pranks and personalized gifts are integral in giving the most meaningful retirement present. A little research (and maybe some stalking, haha) can help one find a gift that suits the retiree. If one can't think of anything, but does know that the retiree loves a good laugh, go ahead and make up gags or create items like a stone slab, pretending to think that the retiree is dead or a purple wig to hide the balding head.
Whatever one can think of, make sure that it is something that the retiree will appreciate and remember for years to come.
Find the Perfect Retirement Gift for Him
Unlike women, who prefer lifetime membership at spas or having a ticket in a trip across the world, men simply have different tastes when it comes to retirement gifts. Unlike the opposite sex, who wants to be pampered and to be bathed by luxury, men simply want something that affirms their virility.
They want nothing more than to be a young and energetic young man again, where they can play sports all day and eat anything they want without thinking of the health risks associated with it. So to speak, a good retirement gift must make them almost relive those moments.
Tips
When it comes to sports, nothing says "still playable by old people" other than the century-old sport, golf. So gifts like personalized golf sets (if he's left handed, give a customized golf set for left-handed men), monogrammed golf balls and gloves are perfect gifts not only to encourage him to be active once again, it also helps when it contributes to his declining health.
If golf sets are a tad too expensive, you may opt for squash or tennis racquets along with customized polo shirts with the family logo (if they have one). What is important is that you rekindle the sports loving gent inside of him. These kind of gifts always work—has anyone heard of a man who doesn't watch ESPN or isn't addicted to Monday night Football or Friday night Basketball?
A good alternative to sports-related gifts are expensive alcohol. The brands don't have to be too extravagant. A huge bottle of J&B or the commonplace Blue Label Johnnie Walker may suffice. It is always good to let him remember the good old times in the bar where he and his friends can do no better than drink the night away. But giving these kinds of gifts doesn't mean you're promoting that again, most men have a wine or alcohol collection stored away in a cabinet, or for the true aficionado, cabinets.
Or it could be as simple as planning a retirement/"bachelor" party for him, where he could simply have a good time with friends, chatting and drinking the night away and enjoying their other company at the gentlemen's club.
No matter what your gift may be, make sure that is true to the fact that it'll make the retiree feel as young as possible.
Alternatives
With these general guidelines, it doesn't necessarily mean that one should forsake personalized gifts. One should always take into account the personality and interests of the retiree. If he loves to read about current events and blogs about it in the internet, then probably a lifetime subscription to The Economist or The Wall Street Journal will be a perfect fit for him. One mustn't forget that very important and universal rule: suit the gift to his tastes.
Conclusion
Making retirees forget about everything about their age and the limitations that come with it must the premise behind your gift-giving decisions to these retirees. Once you find the perfect blend wherein you mix sports, leisure and fun, then rest assured that you have found the best gift possible for him.
If that cannot be achieved, then simply follow a rule that has stood the test of time: discover his interest, and give a gift related to that. In the end, it's all about knowing what the person wants and giving it to him.
Retirement Gift Ideas for Women
Most working women look forward to this day, when their superhuman endeavors come to a close. Days of juggling both work and being a good mother takes a toll on them. And most sons and daughters will always look up to them and wonder: "how in the world did they make it through?" With that said, a retirement gift should be in place for them. Something that rewards all the decades of hard work and it should be with that hint of sentimentality that makes it utterly priceless.
Tips
When it comes to gifts, women, of course, want something different from what men receive. They're not into sports since it usually disrupts their delicate yet valuable nature. They want to be pampered rather then beaten up, so to speak.
A gift that fulfills this basic requirement is a yearlong membership to a spa. Those mesmerizing foot massages and that wonderful and endless feeling of bliss can already make the retiree jump for joy. Another is a gift basket. Let her rekindle her love affair with food and baking with AllOccasionBasketts.com's selections that only feature the best quality apples, almonds, pears and a host of other fruits that sell for merely $90. You may also opt for their coffee basket that has two kinds of creamers, stir spoons and it also has tea cookies and bonbons.
You can also opt for the universal weakness of women: chocolate. In the internet, chocolat.com offers personalized mahogany boxes which you may engrave with anything you want and of course, has wonderful Swiss chocolates which may be handcrafted into anything that seems appropriate (the retiree's favorite flower, perhaps?)
If you want the retiree to feel truly pampered, you may give her a roundtrip ticket across the world, letting her experience the rich cultures of other nations while staying in one of the most luxurious hotels in the world. And don't forget the shopping opportunities!
One may also opt for jewelry, but that's probably the most uninspired gift one could give, right?
Don't Forget the Children
But a woman cannot fully embrace retirement if there is no assurance if her children's financial future isn't secure. As a son or daughter, make sure you bring that off her back because nothing worries a mother more than her children having a tough time. So, you may give all the wonderful things for her but don't forget that your happiness is what she keeps thinking about. Make sure that you're already having the time of your life and there's simply nothing for her to worry about.
Conclusion
Unlike men, there are more gifts one can think of to make the woman retiree as pleased as possible. It all hinges on one theme: pamper her and make her feel privileged. Douse her with luxury; offer her only the best. These are the things one must keep in mind when giving a retirement gift for a woman.
One must remember that the feeling of love and privilege is the dream of every supermom. So when retirement finally comes for her, when all the sacrifices she did for her children and all the hard work she has done to secure the family's finances, it should be a time when she begins to embrace and taste the best life can give.
There are tons of options you can take. You may give a ticket to the world or a lifetime membership to a spa. Whatever it is, make sure it takes her giggle like an innocent little girl once again.
Types of Retirement Gifts
The working person would sooner or later have to step down on the given task that he or she has been accustomed to. The work that has evolved into a job and eventually blossomed into a career became a part of the working person's lifestyle. Definitely, when that fateful day of ceasing the intended work arrives, the person would at least want to have something memorable to take home and be a reminder of all the years that passed. Retirement gifts would be the perfect thing to have. This would definitely be more than just money's worth.
Overview
There are many types of retirement gifts which reflect the manner of career the retiring person has experienced. These are then categorized in different manners according to the characteristic of its presentation.
A way to categorize retirement gifts is the industry from which the retiree came from.
May it be bad or good, the affinity of a retirement gift would be much more valuable if the gift itself is a manifestation of the work that was rendered service. For example, retiring army personnel would probably want to keep something which is related to the army. A doctor who is about to formally end his practice in the medical profession would most likely want to have a recognition party or perhaps a medically related thing with his name engraved on it to let everyone know that he was once part of the medical practice profession.
A retirement gift comes in two categories: A thing or something non tangible. The former may be a memento, memorabilia, plaque of recognition, trophy, or any other thing which may be kept and be shown to others to signify and indicate the retiree's service to a specific business endeavor. The latter is more of a one time event, but still eternal nonetheless such as a commemorative party, celebration or public salutation to let everyone know of the finished task. A combination of both would actually be better to fully complete the acknowledgement of a person's service and thus would make that person feel at worth.
Retirement gifts could also be categorized either as commercial or personal. Most would probably think that a personally created retirement gift would be more memorable and valuable, but a commercially acquired or created retirement gift would also hold the same amount of sentimental value to the retiree. In this case, commercial retirement gift such as pre-set parties or merchandise like a watch or the like could be imparted with the same amount of value by engraving the identity of the retiree onto it. The manner of "personalizing" a retirement gift transforms a commercially created gift into a personal one.
The Value
Retirement gifts should not be expensive though as the value is not equated to the amount of money that was spent in allowing it to manifest. The important thing in giving out retirement gifts is the amount of love and care that was put into getting it. Even if it would just be a small token or a simple party, the manner of how it would be presented is much more heartfelt.
Besides, the retirement gift's effect on the retiree's self esteem will not end after the actual presentation. As long as the retirement gift is remembered, all the work experience and the value to which it was done throughout the years will keep the retiree summoned up and eternally reminisced.
Why You Should Give a Retirement Gift
Whether you knew the future retiree in passing or know him/her over random coffee conversations, it is often appropriate to give one a retirement gift. It is a wonderful gesture which will be appreciated all the more if the giver and retiree did not spend significant time together. It also helps when giving a retirement gift improves one's image in the company (wink, wink).
But there are more reasons why you should give gift to future retirees, let us look at some of them:
Improve Connections
Going to a retirement party is one of the most opportune times to improve one's connections, especially if both you and the retiree are handling businesses. The latter has spent years in this respective industry, gaining respect along the way and of course, has built a good set of personal contacts along the way. In his final day of work, it is sure that most of the important people in his contact list will be there.
Gaining an invitation to the party, and giving a gift will secure one that other people recognize him too as an important person in the retiree's life and may give one a better chance of meeting new and probably helpful people.
Parties are the usual venue to meet and interact with new people; so don not worry about awkward situations and pauses in between conversations because this is the time where most people feel their best and have the natural inclination to talk to other people. So go out there, smile, impress and meet new people!
Show Your Fun Side and Improve Your Stock
Typically, co-workers know each other based on project performances, sales reports and contributions to the team. And after work, most people are reeling from the daily grind and usually are not up for a good chat and a drink or two. So when you're in a retirement party, show that your skills aren't limited in the board room.
Think of gags, pranks and jokes that will woo future partners and admirers so you will have that x-factor when the next interview comes along the way. Show that you're not merely a mechanical, droll and ironically efficient bureaucrat. Branch out, make some new friends and show your confident and funny side.
It is important to present your other side so they would know that you're the kind of businessperson who knows how to balance his priorities and still have fun. That kind of combination will win you future investors if ever you will venture into the topsy-turvy world of entrepreneurship.
Conclusion
There are tons of unintended opportunities when you simply give a retirement gift. Connections will be built and your reputation will likely improve. Just let your hair down in one of these parties and show that you resume isn't limited to leadership and creative skills. Show your fun side and let them bask in your confidence and potential.
But also, do not forget about the importance of your gift. It has to be in line with his personality and interests. Classic examples are monogrammed golf sets and autographed basketballs. Whatever your gift, make sure it fulfills the basic requirements of a good retirement present and you'll be ready to impress people and get opportunities in retirement parties.
Give Yourself the Perfect Retirement Gift
From day one, everyone looks forward to retirement, that day where they can finally let go of the stresses of the daily grind and spend their leisurely days traveling, reading and basically having fun. As compared to previous generations, we have longer life spans so we all expect our golden years to be fulfilling and rewarding.
Instead of waiting for people to help you plan your retirement, you should do it yourself. Although retirement planning is probably one of the most draining activities where one spends loads of time perusing over financial and brokerage statements, benefits brochures and insurance policies. One does this in terms of the benefits of long term planning: if one retires earlier, he/she will think and anticipate less on government-funded plans which only gives a pittance of a pension and focus more on the beauty of life.
Why Retirement Planning is Necessary
Obviously, retirement planning isn't all about numerous hours of stress by chugging down numbers and analyzing mutual funds: it's about fixing and deciding how you will live the final years of your life. If one can balance financially and plan fully on a retirement plan, rest assured that your future is secure.
But remember that retirement planning isn't a singular activity. It is something that stretches forth to decades, spanning your 30s, 40s and 50s. In every decade, one must rethink their strategies since you are inching closer and closer to retirement, thus one must forgo risky investments and go to bonds and reliable mutual funds as the years pass by.
Build the Right Retirement Plan
A retirement plan must be suited to your risk tolerance and apparent need for cash when retirement comes. If you prefer a general 401(k) that has a good balance of everything, you may go for equal amounts of low-risk bonds and riskier stocks or you may also opt for an assortment of mutual funds that both have high-risk and low-risk funds.
Generally, risk tolerance is congruent to one's age. If you are on your 20s or early 30s, you may opt for a more stock-saturated mutual fund in the hope of getting a good return because of the added risk stocks give. If ever the worst comes and you face some declines in the stock market, you still have a good 20 to 30 years to compensate for the losses.
On the other hand, if one is teetering on the 40s or 50s, it is necessary that one must go low-risk in his/her investments. One's mutual funds must now be concentrated more on low-risk government bonds, which virtually assure no losses and minimum gain, if there will be no huge political crisis, of course.
If one follows this general age/risk rule, then one has better chance that one has an ample amount of cash to spend on the pleasures of life when retirement age finally comes.
Conclusion
One has always dreamt of traveling the world, playing golf all day and enjoying the best life can give. But one cannot do all that while working away in the office. Therefore one must give importance to the rising necessity of building a retirement plan.
It is probably as stressful as work itself, but if you can carry all that heap of information and mix it into the delicacy that is a finely tailored retirement plan, then rest assured that your dream of tasting and relishing the best of life is definitely reachable by 65.
Fun with Retirement Gag Gifts
Ending With A Smile
Retiring does not mean that a person has to end the fun times, pun intended with what he has come to live by in his everyday existence. It also does not have to be a moment of sadness because of the formal ceasing of work. A retiring event can be as much fun as any other celebrated occasion. One way to make sure that such a retirement incident is kept fun and retains its fun is to make sure that all aspects of the retirement process are serviced with a smile or a funny and heartwarming cause. Retirement gag gifts may be utilized in this manner to provide an added pun and fun for both the retiree and the guests celebrating his retirement.
Pranks For Less Stress
Associated with work throughout the years are the different stressors which have made the work experience complete but tiring nonetheless. A well themed retirement gag gift would definitely relieve those bad moments in the retiree's career. Furthermore, the retirement gag gift would be a lighter alternative of implicating a farewell gift for the person from his work.
More Work, More Pranks
It is a good idea to counter the stress garnered from a retirement by placing a theme which openly and blatantly speaks of his work and gives a clean ridicule or laugh about it. This way, the retiree could think of his work experience as something to look back to and have a chuckle or two about it. This would give a sense of accomplishment to the individual and would therefore help him in moving on, ending a career chapter in his life and starting a new life as a beneficiary of his life's work.
Pranks in these manner may be indicated on the different items and memorabilia which may be placed on them. For example, a retiree coming off from years of police service may be given a token of a gag gift in the form of a customized water gun which looks like a replica of the service pistol firearm that he had during service. Another could be a rocking chair with a slogan saying "Too young to rock this chair". What ever the retirement gag gift may be, what is important is the message behind the item that would be funny.
Life Begins After Retirement
Probably you have heard of the saying "Life begins at 40". Some other similar slogans would indicate a different age. What better way to start this "Life" as they call it with a hearty laugh or a glowing disposition? Some of the retirement gag gifts which could be of use in relation to the types of activities that the retiree will be engaging in.
An avid golfer would have more time now to spend with his favorite sport, and retirement gag gifts may be part of his new experience in focused golfing by giving him a golf club designed specifically to cut grass so that even when he is just in his lawn maintaining his garden or the like, he could still have a few chuckles as he swings the gag gift at the grass.
The amount of laughs and gags are only limited by the imagination, and each person's idea of a gag is different. Just be careful though of not being too brutally mischievous in giving a person a retirement gag gift as it may hurt that person if not properly given or thought of.