How to handle awkward requests at work -

How to handle awkward requests at work - We spend a lot of time at work with colleagues, and this time of year tends to be rife with opportunities to experience the awkward. With the gift-giving and holiday party season just around the corner, use these tips to prepare for those inevitable awkward moments at work that could otherwise leave you in a  bad mood.   People asking for money Whether its to support their favorite charity or for a gift for the boss or a co-worker, it can be uncomfortable to tell someone you dont want to support his or her cause or pay for a gift for someone you dont even like. How you respond will depend on the situation. If its a gift for the boss or a colleague, you may be best off giving something than taking a stand and being labeled uncooperative. However, you can always say you are taking care of your own gift, or, in the case of a charity, explain that youve already maxed out your quarterly charitable contributions. Gift-giving Whether a co-worker gives you a gift and you dont have one in return, or youre deciding if you should buy the boss a gift, the gift-giving season can be awkward. While you shouldnt feel obligated to give anyone a gift, its a good idea to identify the workplace rituals before its too late if you want to give a  good impression. If everyone exchanges presents, you may want to just go along and avoid discomfort. If you have financial issues, give something homemade or thoughtful that isnt expensive. If you feel strongly and dont want to participate for religious reasons simply explain why you arent able to participate. Colleagues asking you to support their kids fundraisers In many companies, it is actually against policy to ask co-workers to purchase items, especially if it is a supervisor asking an employee. However, if you dont want to pull the, its wrong of you to even ask me excuse, you can still easily beg off by saying that you already got your share of (wrapping paper, cookie dough or other trinket) from the neighbors kid. Conversations about salaries or bonuses If your company gives holiday bonuses or raises at this time of year, it can be awkward to answer a colleagues question about what you received. Whether its because you think you may have earned more or less, it can be a difficult conversation either way. If youre not comfortable discussing it, you can always demur and say youve found its a good policy not to discuss money with colleagues and leave it at that. Office parties Its not bad enough that you have to spend all day with colleagues who have  gross habits. At this time of year, they expect you to prepare to enjoy evenings socializing with them, too. Even if your colleagues arent your favorite people, its still a good idea to extend yourself and join in the fun â€" even if it isnt that much fun for you. Make a point to limit or avoid alcohol consumption and keep the conversations casual and pleasant. You never know, an office party may provide an introduction to someone youve been wanting to meet; never ignore the networking potential. Praying For the non-religious or those in minority religions, saying grace before work events can be very awkward. Usually, your best bet is to be respectful, but dont feel compelled to bow your head or say amen if you dont want to participate. Share your own stories of awkward work moments and how you handled them in the comments section below. More advice: Things HR wont tell you Secrets to a slam dunk interview Signs youre in a dead-end job Article originally appeared at AOLJobs.com.