Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Illysook]

I've been at my job for a several months now and it's not perfect, but I'm thankful and sometimes gifts show up on my desk. I don't question them too much, they are usually not great gifts but it's the thought that counts and sometimes I don't even know the person who has been passing them out.

So, this week I've had a fat lot of nothing to do and my co-teachers have been slaving away to prepare midterms. I bought candy bars for the ones that I work with the most often. They did what they usually do...said thank you and were giggling with their pals shortly afterward, as if I'd done something very silly. Am I missing something important here, or am I just being paranoid and insecure?

[nomad-ish]

it's probably just because they were surprised that you got them something. my co-teachers were surprised the first time i brought in some cookies for them, but since i do it regularly now, hardly anyone notices anymore!

anyways, i wouldn't take it so seriously. they were probably giggling about how you're doing something korean or how you must be bored during midterms.

[interestedinhanguk]

No advice but I know the feeling of them giggling after you giving them something. It's a bit uncomfortable and can feel a wee bit embarrassing (Especially being the only male at my school with 11 female Korean teachers, not to mention the rest of the staff is all female too). I do feel a little silly baking stuff for them or giving them rice cakes. Meh.

[lorenchristopher]

I agree with nomad-ish.

I think they were just giggling about how sweet it was that you got them something. It's not a bad thing or anything to feel insecure about at all.

I sometimes bring random things in for my co-workers and bosses....not very often, but maybe 3 times a year. It's just a nice thing to do if you care about maintaining a good relationship with your co-workers. My theory is that if they like me and appreciate me a lot then they will have my back, should some situation arise where I need their help.

Bottom line, giving little gifts is a good idea....it certainly doesn't hurt!!

[Illysook]

I'm really looking forward to my original co-teacher coming back from maternity leave. I had a friend pick up some things from Bath & Body Works and it should make coming back to work a little nicer for her. If they giggle a lot then, I'll know that it's a good thing.

[wylies99]

I would only share something if they share with you. If they don't include you then buy nothing. If you decide to contribute, you don't have to buy anything super expensive. It can be a 4,000 won box of chocopies. I usually do something right after payday because I have money (makes sense). That way you're giving something.

What to bring? I like Costco cookies, (about 9,000 won), or donuts. Sometimes it'll be Costco muffins. But you can bring chocopies or some other cheap snack food. Just leave it somewhere in the teacher's room and they'll eat it all between 11 am and lunch.

[sojusucks]