When it comes to gifts, the old saying that it’s nicer to give than to receive is no less true in the office. In fact it may even ring more true because at work you’re more likely to be presented with a present that looks like it came free with a cereal.

The whole notion of Secret Santa is rife with pitfalls; what to get the guy from accounts you barely know? How much to spend? What’s everyone else getting everyone else? There are so many ways to get it wrong even without thinking about what your gift says about you...

Aside from the wrongs, getting it right can be oh-so satisfying. Everyone loves a good present picker, especially if the gift is original, fun or just so them.

Abide by these Secret Santa rules and be the envy of the office...

1. Agree a budget with the rest of your work mates.

2. Stick to it, no one likes a show off and you’ll just make everyone else feel bad, which doesn’t bode well for you!

3. Don’t trade your secret pick with anyone, because someone else will always know (obviously!) but finding a gift for an almost-stranger/ non-friend is part of the challenge, and the fun!

4. Remember these are work colleagues or casual friends. Don't use Secret Santa as a chance to shock or embarrass them, the tension will be palpable and everyone will blame you if kind Suzy in marketing starts crying.

5. Make your gift fun and light hearted. Secret Santa is meant to be fun; making people laugh is one of the aims.

6. Try to match the recipient's known likes and dislikes. If you don’t know much about them, find out from others in the office. Ask questions about their favourite movie, music... an idea will spring to mind.

7. Wrap it really nicely. The unwrapping in a circle is all part of the fun!

8. Don't complain about what you get in Secret Santa. You'll only make the person who got it for you hate you, and you'll completely ruin the effect of the great present you give!

9. Practise your delighted smile. If you follow these rules, no present you receive will be as good as yours!

10. Finally, don't take it too seriously!