Whether you run a small business or manage a large team, showing your appreciation for your employees is an essential part of being a good leader. There are many opportunities to give gifts in the workplace, such as birthdays, work anniversaries, or simply just to show your appreciation.

But choosing the perfect gift isn’t always easy, and it can be hard to narrow down exactly what would inspire your employees, and show genuine employee appreciation.

That’s why we’ve listed over 50 of the most unique employee gift ideas to help you celebrate their hard work and boost team spirit in the workplace!

Why Buying Gifts for Employees Goes a Long Way

Why Buying Gifts for Employees Goes a Long Way

  1. Show Employee Appreciation
    Giving gifts is an excellent way to express gratitude and show employee appreciation for their hard work, commitment, and dedication. It acknowledges their contributions and boosts morale, making employees feel valued and recognized for their efforts.
  2. Boost Morale and Motivation
    A well-chosen gift can have a significant impact on employee morale and motivation. This kind of employee recognition sends a positive message that their efforts are noticed and valued by the organization, fostering a sense of pride and satisfaction. This can then inspire team members to work harder and be more engaged in their roles.
  3. Enhance Company Culture
    Gift-giving can contribute to a positive and supportive company culture. The simple act of giving gifts promotes a sense of camaraderie and teamwork when employees see their colleagues being recognized and rewarded. It can also encourage a culture of giving and appreciation among team members themselves.
  4. Strengthen Relationships
    Giving gifts to team members is an opportunity to build and strengthen relationships within the workplace. It allows employers to connect with their employees on a more personal level, showing that they care about their well-being and happiness. Stronger relationships can foster open communication, trust, and collaboration within the organization.
  5. Increase Productivity and Performance
    When employees feel appreciated and valued, they are more likely to take pride in their work and strive for excellence. The recognition that comes with receiving a gift can serve as a motivator and inspire them to go above and beyond in their roles, leading to increased productivity and performance.

Buying gifts for your team members is not just a gesture of kindness, but a strategic investment in your organization’s success. By taking the time to choose thoughtful gifts, you demonstrate that you value your team members and recognize their contributions, ultimately leading to a more engaged and motivated workforce.

50+ of the Best Employee Gift Ideas

50+ of the Best Employee Gift Ideas

When it comes to showing appreciation for employees, a meaningful gift can go a long way in boosting morale and fostering a positive work environment. But how do you find the right balance between a thoughtful gift and something that isn’t breaking the corporate budget?

We’ve organized our employee gifts into categories to help you decide on the right gift for your team members:

  • Experiences
  • Food and Drink 
  • Electronic and Tech Gifts
  • Personalized and Creative Gifts
  • Gifts for the Home

Whether it’s for a special occasion, holiday celebration, or as a token of appreciation, here are over 50 employee gift ideas that are sure to make a lasting impression!

Experiences

  1. Subscription Boxes: Treat employees to a monthly surprise by subscribing to a themed box that matches their hobbies or interests.
  2. Online Course Memberships: Invest in your employees’ professional development by providing them with access to online courses or learning platforms.
  3. Massage or Spa Vouchers: Treat team members to a relaxing massage or spa session to help them recharge and rejuvenate.
  4. Movie Tickets: Give employees a chance to unwind and enjoy a movie at their leisure.
  5. Cooking Classes: Encourage team members to explore their culinary skills by offering cooking classes that they can attend at their convenience.
  6. Language Learning Subscriptions: Support employee’s personal growth by providing them with online language learning subscriptions to enhance their skills.
  7. Experience Vouchers: Gift experience vouchers that allow employees to enjoy activities such as zip-lining, an escape room, hot air balloon rides, or wine tasting, creating unforgettable memories.
  8. Gift Cards: Whether it’s for a favorite coffee shop, bookstore, or online store, gift cards offer flexibility and allow employees to choose something they truly desire. Gift cards are always an excellent option for remote employees, as you can simply e-mail them a voucher directly.
  9. Yoga Classes: Encourage employees to take some time for themselves and focus on their wellbeing with a paid-for yoga class.

Food and Drink 

  1. Mini Fridge: A mini fridge for the office can help employees keep their snacks and beverages cool and handy.
  2. Gourmet Food Basket: A basket filled with gourmet chocolates, cheeses, or snacks can be a delightful surprise for any employee.
  3. A Fun Snacks Basket: If your employees have a sweet tooth, arrange a gift set filled with fun snacks that you know your employees love, such as candy bars, popcorn, soda, and even homemade cakes and pastries. Alternatively, you could include some healthy snacks as well to balance out the treats!
  4. Luxury Wine: For the wine connoisseurs in your team, luxury wine will always be a good choice. Choose a bottle, or a selection of bottles, that they can enjoy to wind down after a long day’s work.
  5. A Selection of Cheeses: Cheese is always an excellent gift! Select some fine cheeses and arrange them in a basket for your employee to take home and sample. You could even include some wine to go along with it.
  6. Fancy Tableware: A tasteful set of plates and bowls will be perfect for your ‘foodie’ employees. Consider the style and colors that they like, and choose a high-end set of tableware that they can use in their home.
  7. A Restaurant Gift Voucher: If you know a team member has a particular taste for a certain cuisine or restaurant, a gift voucher is a great appreciation gift.
  8. A Paid-For Lunch: Treat your employees to a paid-for lunch one day at work. This gesture can go a really long way and is a lovely surprise for your employees. Take them out to a nice restaurant as a show of your appreciation for them.

Electronic and Tech Gifts

  1. Bluetooth Speaker: A portable speaker allows employees to enjoy their favorite music or podcasts while working, creating a more enjoyable atmosphere in the office.
  2. Wireless Charging Pad: Make charging devices hassle-free with a wireless charging pad that supports various smartphone models.
  3. Personalized Laptop Stand: A customized laptop stand can provide ergonomic benefits and make the work-from-home experience more comfortable.
  4. Headphones: A set of good, noise-canceling headphones is perfect for an employee who is always on a call, or who loves to listen to music whilst they work.
  5. A Portable Charger: Every employee will appreciate a portable charger or power bank to help keep their devices charged on the go.
  6. A Polaroid Camera: Polaroid cameras are a fun take on a normal camera, and if you have an employee who loves photography, or even just love capturing moments on camera, then a Polaroid camera is a great idea.
  7. A Video Game: Why not surprise an employee with a video game that they’ve longed for? If they’ve mentioned an interest in an upcoming release, you can show your appreciation with a copy just for them!
  8. VR Headset: Speaking of games, if there are any gamers in your team, then a VR headset can provide them with endless hours of fun whilst they escape into other worlds.
  9. A Digital Photo Frame: This will look great on any office desk, and a digital photo frame is perfect for tech lovers who want to showcase their pictures.
  10. A Mouse Pad: A must have as far as corporate gifting goes! A sturdy and high-quality mouse pad is a necessity for office workers, and you can find plenty of custom designs online to suit each employee. For an additional touch, you could include the company logo on the design.

Personalized and Creative Office Gifts

  1. Personalized Coffee Mug: A great personalized gift idea! A coffee mug engraved with an employee’s name or a special message can brighten their mornings and add a personal touch to their desk.
  2. Desk Plants: A small plant can add greenery and provide a sense of calm and tranquility to any office desk.
  3. Customized Notebook or Journal: Encourage creativity and productivity with a personalized notebook or journal that workers can use to jot down ideas or create to-do lists.
  4. Desktop Games: Mini desktop games, such as a mini basketball hoop or a magnetic maze, can provide a fun and stress-relieving break during the workday, allowing each employee get in touch with their inner child!
  5. Customized Phone Accessories: From phone cases to pop sockets, personalized gifts such as phone accessories make practical and stylish additions to everyday objects.
  6. Personalized Keychains: Customized keychains with initials or an inspiring quote can make a thoughtful and practical gift.
  7. Desk Organizer: A stylish desk organizer can help keep the workspace clutter-free and enhance productivity.
  8. Personalized Stationery: Personalized stationery sets with an employee’s name or initials are a thoughtful and elegant gift for those who appreciate handwritten notes.
  9. Customized Calendar: A personalized calendar with special dates or motivational quotes can keep employees organized and inspired throughout the year.
  10. A Video Call with Remote Workers: For your employees who work remotely, speaking to them directly over video and expressing your thanks for their hard work can go a long way in showing your appreciation for them.
  11. A Handwritten Note: A simple but effective employee appreciation gift, a handwritten note is a thoughtful gesture, in which you can express your feelings clearly and show your employees how meaningful their work has been.
  12. A Personalized Video Message: If you work for a large company, this is a particularly appropriate gift idea, and can also be an excellent option for remote workers. Record a video expressing your thanks to your employees for their hard work. This is also an excellent way to boost employee motivation and ensures that everyone feel valued.

Gifts for the Home

  1. Travel Tumblers: Insulated travel tumblers keep beverages hot or cold for hours, keeping drinks at just the right temperature. These are handy gifts for the employee who is always on the go.
  2. Fitness Accessories: Help everyone stay healthy and active with fitness accessories such as resistance bands, yoga mats, or activity trackers.
  3. Scented Candles: A scented candle can create a cozy and relaxing environment at home, and there are plenty of different scents to choose from so you won’t be short of choice when picking a gift.
  4. Laptop Backpack: A durable and comfortable laptop backpack can make commuting to work or business trips more convenient.
  5. Reusable Water Bottles: Help employees stay hydrated while reducing single-use plastic waste with a stylish and eco-friendly water bottle.
  6. A Stylish Bag: Employees can use this specific gift for fashion, or you can opt for a more practical bag that they can use for the gym to carry towels, a yoga mat, or fitness gear.
  7. Fun Coasters: Coasters are one of the best gifts for employees who love to drink coffee or tea. Stop their desk or table from getting damaged with unique coaster designs.
  8. Luxury Skincare: Plan an employee appreciation gift box filled with luxury skincare items. Many employees will be thankful for this high-end gift idea.
  9. A Bottle Opener: A fun gift for an employee who loves to unwind with their favorite drink after work!
  10. Custom Portraits: If you’re artistic, designing a custom portrait for an employee can be a unique way to show your appreciation for their hard work. However, if you aren’t particularly artistic, there are many custom portraits you can find online and personalize to fit your employee’s taste.
  11. Personal Development Books: Gift books that inspire personal growth and development, covering various topics such as leadership, mindfulness, or entrepreneurship.
  12. An Alarm Clock: A good gift for any employee, but particularly for those who come to the office one minute before work starts. After a good night’s sleep, an alarm clock can help a sleepy employee wake up on time. Hopefully they have a sense of humor with this one!
  13. House Plants: House plants make excellent employee gift ideas for any occasion.

Enjoy Our Selection of Employee Gift Ideas and Find a Great Gift for Any Occasion

Remember, the key to selecting the perfect gift is to consider the individual preferences and interests of your employees. Gift giving opportunities give you a chance to show how well you know your employees, and by selecting a gift that shows you’ve put thought into their likes and needs, you can demonstrate your appreciation and strengthen your working relationships.

Whether they work in the office, or complete remote work, celebrate your team members with a well-chosen, meaningful gift, and watch workplace relationships strengthen!

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