Behind a gracious smile, you may not know that a big question looms inside the head of the recipient of your gift: “What will I do with this thing?” Although you may want to think that all gifts are good, think again because there are certainly some bad ideas you may want to steer clear off, especially when you're planning to surprise a new acquaintance. To find out what these gift boo-boos are, go over the following list.

• PETS. Unless you are absolutely sure that your acquaintance loves animals and has the means to do so, do not give a pet as a gift no matter how cuddly that furry puppy or kitten is and no matter how adorable that goldfish in a bowl looks like. Doing otherwise will cause needless burden on the recipient as owning a pet is a serious decision that entails major responsibilities.

Even if you know how much your acquaintance may adore animals, mull over the things that you do not know. Some questions to consider include the following: Where does your acquaintance reside? Does the apartment he/she is renting allow pets? Does your acquaintance know how to take care of pets or is he/she just appreciative of them? Is he/she ready to shoulder additional finances related to pet vaccination, registration and checkups?

• PERFUME. Perfumes usually come in attractive bottles and packaging – and an impressive price tag to match. Although at first though, you may think perfumes make seemingly appropriate gift items, do not proceed. Perfumes are a highly personal commodity, whose selection and use preferences vary from person to person. To give even just one bottle might send a message across that you're dictating on the wishes of your new acquaintance or putting down his or her own brand of perfume. Further, if your acquaintance has some insecurities about his/her odor and hygiene, brace yourself for trouble. Giving a bottle of perfume for a gift could be as insulting as slapping his/her face with a stick of deodorant!

• RING, WATCH AND EXPENSIVE JEWELLERY. If you do not wish to be misinterpreted as having romantic notions on your new acquaintance, avoid giving him/her a ring, a watch or any piece of jewellery – no, not even on the most innocent reasons such as a “welcome” gift or a “friendship” token. Not only are these items expensive, they are also associated with undertones of serious courtship and romance. If you want to preserve a healthy and productive working relationship with your new acquaintance, and if you want to continue strengthening your current relationship with your lover, avoid complications and do not ever think of giving a ring, watch or expensive jewellery as casual gifts.

Pets, perfumes and expensive jewellery – these are the biggest boo-boos you could possibly give to an acquaintance. However, these aren't all. Include in your boo-boo list items that require the recipient to do some fitting and trying out: clothes, shoes, underwear and the like. Otherwise, instead of surprising that new acquaintance, you might be giving him/her a shock instead.