DEAR MISS MANNERS: Traditionally in our company, when co-workers are leaving, we all sign a card, get a gift and take said co-worker out to lunch as a team. But amid quarantine, with us all working from home, what would be the appropriate protocol to celebrate our co-worker before her last day?
GENTLE READER: A luncheon.
It was always the employer’s responsibility to honor a retiring employee with a laudatory party, but some years ago, many refused to spend the money, leaving the remaining employees to supply both the appreciation and the expense. Miss Manners always thought it a disgrace to shift the obligation of recognizing service to the retiree’s colleagues.
But at least it won’t cost you anything, as the luncheon will, of course, be virtual.