Is It a Good Idea to Give the CEO a Book on Strategy as a Holiday Gift?

When it comes to gifting, especially during the holidays, the choice of what to give can be a critical one. One of the most thoughtful choices might be a book on strategy. But is this a good idea for your CEO?

Understanding the CEO's Perspective

How the CEO interprets the gift can vary widely based on their personality and confidence. If the CEO is a voracious leader and highly confident, a book on strategy could be seen as a sign of intelligence and growth. However, for someone who is more suspicious or insecure, the same gift could be perceived as a form of criticism.

From a personal experience, I, the CEO, get these types of gifts all the time. Since my company has achieved significant profitability, a book on strategy was instrumental in this success. If the gift is well-received and fosters a culture of continuous learning, it can be a valuable addition to their leadership toolkit. Even better, the person who recommended or presented the book could gain recognition for their contribution.

Timing and the Right Book

Timing is crucial when giving such a thoughtful gift. Make sure the CEO is receptive and open to such suggestions. Also, the right book is essential; not all strategy books are created equal. Look for a book that has great reviews and has been well-received by other successful leaders. If the CEO is not actively seeking improvement, such a gift might be seen as irrelevant or even intrusive.

Alternative Gifts

If you're unsure whether a strategy book would be well-received, consider alternative gifts. A self-development book could be more universally appreciated. Alternatively, a science-fiction or fantasy novel might be a more relaxed and enjoyable gift. These types of books can serve as a break from the pressures of work and are often seen as a gesture of goodwill.

How to Proceed

To decide whether a strategy book is the right gift, consider the following questions:

Is the CEO open to learning, improvement, and growth? Does the CEO view such suggestions positively? Is there a history of recommending or reading similar books? Is your relationship with the CEO close enough for such a gift to be appreciated?

If the CEO is a highly confident and proactive leader who values such suggestions, go ahead and give the book. If not, it might be better to choose an alternative gift.

Conclusion

As a CEO, receiving a book on strategy can be a very useful gift if it's timely and well-received. But the success of this gift truly depends on the CEO's perspective and their openness to continuous improvement. If you're unsure, opt for an alternative gift that is more universally appealing.