Mid-December is almost here, and that means we’re about out of time to get holiday gifts in! If you’re giving gifts in your office, you probably don’t have until Christmas (or your holiday of choice) to source the right presents for your bosses, co-workers, or team members.
Office gifts don’t have the best track record, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find gifts that your team will like and appreciate. I know. It’s a revolutionary thought.
You’re in luck if you don’t have time to hunt down the “perfect” presents. I’ve put together a list full of fool-proof office gift ideas.
10 Office Gift Ideas That Don’t Suck
#1 – A Gift Card from a Local Business
Is there a coffee spot around the corner? A favorite local lunch place? Consider where people in your community like to go. A gift card to a local bakery, restaurant, or retail store is always appreciated. It’s practical but more thoughtful than cash. Plus, you help support small businesses in your area! It’s a win-win.
#2 – A Few Months of Their Favorite Subscription Service
We’re all inundated with subscription services these days. And while the convenience is undeniable, it would be nice to get the perks without the price tag, at least for a little while. That’s where your gift comes in! Consider a 3-month Spotify subscription or premium services for YouTube, Doordash (or other food delivery services). Again, functional gifts that don’t create clutter are always a safe bet.
#3 – A Breakroom Upgrade
If you can’t give an individual gift to every person in the office, consider a larger collective gift. Maybe the breakroom could stand for an upgrade. A new coffee maker with all the bells and whistles. Nowadays, it’s easy to get machines that brew coffee, tea, and specialty drinks. Many even come with extra attachments for frothing milk.
You can also invest in better breakroom seating, stocking the fridge with favorites, or providing other valuable small appliances such as a toaster oven or electric kettle.
#4 – Snack Baskets
Individual and group snack baskets are always a hit. If you know team preferences, you can give these individually. Otherwise, there’s no shame in putting together a large, communal snack basket for the whole office to pick from. Include seasonal or homemade goodies alongside classic standbys to make it extra special.
#5 – Specialty Coffee or Tea
By now, you likely know your co-workers’ preferences and particular interests. Good gifts are things that people want but wouldn’t buy for themselves. If you have a coffee lover, pick up a bag or two of specialty beans. Tea lovers can receive a similar gift. Really, any food or drink aficionado is easy to buy for – there are gourmet versions of just about everything you can think of.
#6 – A Travel Mug
A mug or cup might seem like a pedestrian gift, but who doesn’t like having an extra around? Stainless steel and insulated options are your best bet. Some good brands to look for are Stanley, Iron Flask, and Hydrapeak. The good news is that you can find many name-brand, high-quality tumblers and mugs at places like TJ Maxx and Marshalls.
#7 – Functional Desk Accessories
Desk accessories can be hit or miss. Ideally, you don’t want to buy things that create clutter. Aesthetically, too, many of these plaques or desk decorations don’t fit the recipient’s tastes. Functional accessories are where it’s at! A nice pair of headphones, desk organizers, laptop stands, and lumbar pillows may be good choices.
#8 – A Spa Kit
Give your team a way to pamper themselves with a DIY spa kit. A small candle, a bar of luxury soap, a bath bomb, small back massagers, heated eye masks, or aromatherapy essentials are good places to start. Feel free to mix and match to suit the individual.
#9 – Cozy Comforts
This time of year, I don’t know anyone who doesn’t enjoy getting cozy. Ultra-soft blankets, desk slippers, or luxury socks from brands like Bombas (they donate to those in need with every purchase, too).
#10 – A Favorite Sampler Set
Finally, when in doubt, give a variety pack! There are samplers for gourmet beef jerky, chocolates, tea, candy, grilling spices, hot sauces, and almost anything you can imagine. Again, these aren’t typically things people buy for themselves, but they’re fun to have and use.
What’s the best office gift you’ve ever received? Share in the comments!