Secret Santa Fails, LinkedIn Level Up, Rise of “Quiet Hiring" - Dec 10, 2024

Hey, Career Champ! It’s Secret Santa season — the time of year when we exchange awkward items and slightly panicked smiles in the office… Before you head out to look for for a quirky mug or stress ball, let’s talk about how to dodge any potential embarrassment. So, grab some cocoa (or eggnog), and let’s unwrap this career wisdom!

On the agenda: 

🤦‍♂️ Secret Santa Fails: When it goes wrong — plus worthwhile ideas.

⏫ LinkedIn Level Up: With this professional planner.

🤫 The Rise of “Quiet Hiring: 5 ways to use this trend for a career advantage.

💫 PLUS Weekly Freebie: A dreamy career planner — on the house.

SPOTLIGHT 

When Secret Santa Goes Wrong in the Workplace…

Secret Santa: a fun holiday tradition or a recipe for workplace disaster? We've all seen it — what starts as a lighthearted exchange can spiral into awkward chaos. Think wildly inappropriate items, unintentional insults, or budgets that feel more like a suggestion than a rule. 😬

Take, for instance, the infamous “Used Candle Incident” (yes, this happened): One colleague gifted a half-burned candle they’d “found lying around.” The recipient? Less than thrilled. Or the time someone received a gym membership voucher (subtle much?) — a gesture that sparked more eye rolls than gratitude. These Secret Santa stories are funny... unless you’re the one unwrapping the cringe.

To ensure your Secret Santa doesn’t become the office gossip:

✅ Stick to the budget. If it’s $20, don’t show up with a shiny watch (or a stress ball).
✅ Know your audience. Steer clear of overly personal items — nobody wants skincare advice.
✅ Keep it professional. Gag gifts can be fun, but keep them workplace-appropriate.

Did your Secret Santa item bomb — or steal the show? Share your best (or worst!) Secret Santa moments with us by replying or on our blog post below.

Still need ideas that are creative, professional, and safe? View this list:

TOGETHER WITH LYSTED

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NEWS THAT MATTERS

🔶 “Revenge Quitting” Emerges as a Worker Trend for 2025

A recent survey by Glassdoor reveals that nearly two-thirds of workers feel "stuck" in their current jobs, leading to a potential trend dubbed "revenge quitting" in 2025. [Yahoo]

🔶 Number of Americans Wanting to Switch Jobs Hits 10-Year High: Poll

More employees are feeling stuck in their jobs and detached from the work they’re doing and are looking to switch jobs, according to a Gallup poll. [LiveNowFox]

🔶 Sweden’s "Soft Girl” Trend that Celebrates Women Quitting Work

Sweden has a global reputation for championing gender equality, so why are young women embracing a social media trend that celebrates quitting work? [BBC]

TODAY’S STEAL

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Whether you’re job hunting, building connections, or showcasing expertise, this planner is your secret weapon for LinkedIn glory! Grab it for yourself or a loved one:

CAREER ADVICE

35 Jolly Christmas Games to Liven up Any Office Party

Are you in charge of the Christmas party this year and want to spice it up a little? An easy way to do that is with some fun party games to break the ice and get everyone mingling. Whether you’re hosting the Christmas bash in the office or at a hired venue these exciting games will definitely have attendees on the floor laughing, and generally having a good time.

Here is a list of 35 enjoyable office Christmas party game ideas to keep your team entertained.

Read more »

WEEKLY FREEBIE

Found Your Dream Career Yet?

Some people have a clear idea of what their dream career is. But not everyone does… If you’re still trying to discover yours, our Dream Career Planner will come in handy: with 15 prompts, it encourages you to think carefully and narrow down your options. This is a complimentary download and printable planner — on the house.

BREAKROOM

Before you go, make sure to share this career wisdom with other driven professionals! Simply hit that forward button, or share this edition.

Created with care by the CareerAddict team.