We’re all familiar with the running joke – from company decals and boring mugs to branded pens and useless nick-nacks, office gifts suck. Rarely does a boss or a coworker give you something useful, let alone something you actually like and appreciate.
If you’re a boss, manager, or anyone looking to buy a few gifts for your team this holiday season, make them count. Bad gifts are a waste of money and can even damage your office rapport. Here are a few gift ideas that people will love and appreciate.
12 Great Gift Ideas for Your Colleagues & Coworkers
#1 – Gift Cards
The best idea for gifts for people you may not know so well are consumable. Gift cards are perhaps the best version of this because they take up no room and can be used on what the person actually wants. Consider gift cards from local stores and restaurants so they can get a treat for themselves and support a small business.
#2 – Personalized Desk Accessories
The key here is personalized. Make an effort to show you know the person or what they enjoy. There are plenty of services out there that make personalized mugs, bobble heads, or even Funko Pop figurines. Pick something that fits the interests and personality of the person. It shows you pay attention and care to give something thoughtful and personal.
#3 – Snack Baskets
Who doesn’t love snacks? The key here, again, is to pay attention. What do your colleagues like to eat or drink? You don’t even need to be secretive about it – just ask what people like. Provide a basket with some of their favorite treats or holiday goodies.
#4 – Wellness Gifts
Wellness gifts can be hit-or-miss, so you need to stick to two rules: no bulky items and no complicated objects. Think slick, insulated water bottles, travel pillows, or lumbar support for desk chairs. If they like to fidget, consider a (quiet) fidget toy or therapy dough to keep at their desk.
#5 – Tech Accessories
Tech accessories are a fairly safe bet, especially if you know what kind of devices someone has. A new AirPod case, charging cable, or sleeve for a laptop or tablet can be a great option. Sites like Society6 have an endless variety of patterns to choose from.
#6 – Remote Workdays
Your gift doesn’t need to be tangible. The holiday season is busy, and I guarantee your team would appreciate some increased flexibility with their hours and remote work. Most people get things done at home as well as in the office – it won’t hurt to let them take a holiday remote day or two.
#7 – Tea or Coffee
Coffee and tea are the lifeblood of the American workforce. If you don’t drink one, you probably drink the other. If you know a colleague likes either of these beverages, gift them a gourmet sampler set or a bag of beans from a local roaster. Pair it with a good mug and you have a solid gift that they can use and enjoy. Accessories like tea strainers or portable French presses are also worth consideration.
#8 – Consumables
Gifts are best when they’re little luxuries that people would like to have but are reluctant to splurge on for themselves. While consumables may include things like gift cards, snacks, and coffee beans, it goes beyond that, too. Think about things like gourmet olive oils, seasonings, hot sauces, candles, or similar items based on the person’s interests.
#9 – Stress Relief
Stress relief items are a safe but generally good bet. Bath bombs, shower steamers, neck massagers, aromatherapy tools, and other relaxation-based gifts allow your colleagues to pamper themselves a little during a stressful season. A self-care kit can make a DIY spa day a real treat!
#10 – Drinkware
Drinkware comes with a big asterisk. People don’t typically enjoy getting one of a fleet of company-branded mugs. Think a little creatively. Funny mugs, beautiful handmade ceramics, insulated or travel mugs, etc., are all far better options.
#11 – Organization Tools
Everyone likes to start the new year feeling organized. Help your team get there with functional and stylish organizational tools. Fun bookends, a fancy file folder, new inbox, and other office accessories might seem “boring,” but they can have plenty of personality.
#12 – Stylish Tchotchkes
I’m adding this one last because it can be the most hit-or-miss. But it can also be incredibly fun. Tchotchkes don’t usually serve a functional purpose – they just impart a little fun and joy to one’s office space. Uncommon Goods is a great retailer for these (and for more suggestions found on this list).
What’s the best gift a boss ever gave you? Share what made it great in the comments.