Boss’s Day, observed annually on October 16th, is the perfect opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the leaders in our professional lives. A thoughtful gift is a wonderful way to express gratitude to a mentor or manager who has made a positive impact. However, finding the right Boss’s Day gift can be tricky. It’s about striking a balance between showing appreciation and maintaining professional boundaries. The best Boss Day Gift Ideas are those that are sincere, aligned with your boss’s personality and interests, and fall within an appropriate budget.
Gifting etiquette expert Jennie Graham from Shadow Breeze emphasizes the importance of avoiding any appearance of favoritism. “Setting an appropriate budget is key. This will depend on factors such as your salary, your position, and how long you’ve worked with your boss,” Graham advises. A good starting point is in the $30 to $50 range, adjusting based on your specific situation. Consider a group gift to allow for a slightly more generous present, ensuring everyone on the team participates.
Ready to celebrate the deserving leader in your life? Here are 25 boss day gift ideas that are both professional and heartfelt.
For The Boss Who Appreciates Thoughtfulness
Knack Big Time Thank You Gift Set
For a boss who values sincerity, the Knack Big Time Thank You Gift Set is an excellent choice. Knack specializes in creating curated gift boxes to suit various tastes and budgets, making it a reliable source for boss day gift ideas. This particular set includes a sketchbook for creative brainstorming, pop-open cards filled with inspirational quotes, and three delectable mini Belgian chocolate bars. The added touch of a personalized note included with each box elevates this thoughtful gift, and you even have the option to customize the contents further. This is a great way to show your appreciation with a present that feels both personal and professional.
For The Boss Who Needs An Afternoon Pick-Me-Up
Let’s Make Memories Personalized Conference Call Bingo Mouse Pad
In today’s world of ubiquitous virtual meetings, a touch of humor can go a long way. If you and your boss share a lighthearted understanding of the quirks of conference calls, the Let’s Make Memories Personalized Conference Call Bingo Mouse Pad is a fun and unique boss day gift idea. This personalized mouse pad turns the sometimes monotonous experience of virtual meetings into a game, featuring squares to mark off for common occurrences like “awkward silence” or “pet cameos.” It’s a practical yet amusing gift that can lighten the mood during long workdays at the computer.
For The Boss Who Needs A Weekend Getaway
Bagsmart Weekender Overnight Bag
Encourage your hardworking boss to take a well-deserved break with the Bagsmart Weekender Overnight Bag. This stylish and affordable bag is a great boss day gift idea to prompt that vacation they’ve been putting off. Praised by the Forbes Vetted team as one of the best weekender bags, it’s spacious, versatile, and includes a convenient buckle for carrying a yoga mat. It’s a practical and thoughtful gift that supports their well-being and time off, making it a perfect choice for a boss who deserves a relaxing escape.
For The Boss Who Wants To Stay Organized
Houndsbay Leather Catch-All Valet
For the boss who appreciates a tidy workspace, the Houndsbay Leather Catch-All Valet is a sophisticated and practical boss day gift idea. If your boss tends to empty their pockets onto their desk, this valet offers a stylish solution for organization. Crafted from leather, it provides a durable and elegant way to keep everyday items visible and accessible, while a lidded compartment offers discreet storage for more private items. It even includes a designated spot for charging a cellphone, adding to its functionality. While slightly pricier, the quality leather construction justifies the cost and ensures longevity, making it a worthwhile investment in desk organization.
For The Boss Who Prefers Putting Pen To Paper
Rocketbook Flip Smart Reusable Notebook
Bridge the gap between traditional note-taking and digital convenience with the Rocketbook Flip Smart Reusable Notebook. This is an innovative boss day gift idea for bosses who love the feel of pen and paper but need the efficiency of digital storage. Available in various colors, this 36-page notebook uses special paper that allows writing with a pen, scanning notes to the cloud via an app, and then erasing the ink with a damp cloth. It’s eco-friendly and practical, offering the best of both worlds for organized note-taking. The top-bound spirals make it equally convenient for both left and right-handed users.
For The Well-Hydrated Boss
Stanley The Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler
Personalization adds a special touch to any gift, and for a boss who’s always with an iced drink, the engravable Stanley The Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler is a perfect boss day gift idea. Jennie Graham suggests personalization as a way to make a gift stand out. This Stanley tumbler is not only practical for keeping drinks cold for hours but can also be customized with an engraving for a personal touch. Senior updates editor Karen Tietjen even lauded a similar Stanley model as a “superior” tumbler for hydration. Available in sizes from 14 to 64 ounces, the 30 to 40-ounce range is ideal. For a sleeker, leak-proof alternative, consider the W&P’s glass water bottle with a silicone sleeve, offering a classic design with added portability.
For The Boss Who’s A Fan Of ‘The Office’
‘The Office’ World’s Best Boss Dunder Mifflin Ceramic Mug
If your boss is a fan of the iconic TV show The Office, the ‘The Office’ World’s Best Boss Dunder Mifflin Ceramic Mug is an undeniably fun and fitting boss day gift idea. Gifting Michael Scott’s famous mug is a playful way to acknowledge their leadership. This affordable ceramic mug is practical for daily use, holding 11 ounces of their favorite beverage and featuring a comfortable handle for office use or perhaps even practicing their best Michael Scott impression. It’s a lighthearted and budget-friendly way to show appreciation.
For The Boss With A Sweet Tooth
The Milk Bar Sampler
Indulge your boss’s sweet cravings with The Milk Bar Sampler, a delectable boss day gift idea from the renowned New York City bakery Milk Bar. Known for innovative desserts, this sampler includes Milk Bar’s most popular treats: B’Day Truffles, an assortment of six unique cookies (like cornflake chocolate chip marshmallow and blueberry and cream), and a slice of Milk Bar Pie. For a fall-themed alternative, the Milk Bar Pumpkin Coffee Cake Truffle Box is a seasonal delight. These gourmet treats are a step up from typical office sweets and offer a memorable and delicious way to celebrate Boss’s Day.
For The Multitasking Boss Who Works Everywhere
Logitech K380 + M350 Wireless Keyboard And Mouse Combo
Enhance your boss’s productivity with the Logitech K380 + M350 Wireless Keyboard And Mouse Combo, a practical boss day gift idea for those who juggle multiple devices or work remotely. If your boss is always working across different devices or even while traveling, this portable and lightweight combo will be greatly appreciated. Compatible with MacBooks, iPads, iPhones, and more, it can connect to up to three devices simultaneously. Available in stylish colors, the minimalist design of both the keyboard and mouse makes them suitable for both office and remote work environments. The keyboard is also available separately for bosses who may not need a mouse.
For The Boss With The Candy Stockpile
Dylan’s Candy Bar Personalized Mini Jar
For the boss who always has a candy stash, the Dylan’s Candy Bar Personalized Mini Jar is a charming and customizable boss day gift idea. This colorful mini jar is a perfect desk accessory for storing mints, candies, or small treats. Priced affordably, you could even gift a set of jars to hold different candies. Dylan’s Candy Bar also offers bulk candy options, allowing you to include a bag of their favorite treats to refill the jar once it’s empty, making it a gift that keeps on giving.
For The Boss Who Deserves Recognition
UrbanStems The Unicorn Flower Bouquet
Express your appreciation with a classic and elegant gesture by sending flowers. The UrbanStems The Unicorn Flower Bouquet is a beautiful boss day gift idea that conveys gratitude and brightens up any office space. UrbanStems is known for high-quality flowers and unique arrangements. The Unicorn bouquet features a vibrant and whimsical color palette, perfect for adding a touch of cheer to their desk. With options for next-day delivery and personalized notes, it’s a convenient and thoughtful way to show your boss they are valued.
For The Boss-Turned-Gourmand
Bella Cucina Herb Infused Salt Gift Set
For the boss who enjoys cooking or entertaining, the Bella Cucina Herb Infused Salt Gift Set is a flavorful and sophisticated boss day gift idea. This set of herb-infused salts adds a gourmet touch to any meal, from simple scrambled eggs to roasted dishes. Imported from Europe and featuring unique flavor combinations like calendula and chive or citrus and fennel, these salts elevate everyday cooking. It’s also a great hostess gift, making it a versatile and appreciated present for a boss with culinary interests.
For The Boss Who’s Always On The Go
Executive Work Tote Bag
The Executive Work Tote Bag is a durable and practical boss day gift idea for the boss who is always on the move. This rugged and spacious tote is designed to handle the demands of a busy day, transitioning seamlessly from the office to the gym to errands. With a 15-liter capacity and multiple pockets, including a laptop compartment and water bottle sleeve, it’s easy to organize and carry essentials. Made from Fairtrade Certified organic cotton in a Fair Trade Certified facility, it’s also a sustainable and ethically conscious gift choice.
For The Paper-Loving Boss With Multiple To-Do Lists
Papier Scallop Spine Personalized List Notepads
Elevate your boss’s to-do list game with the Papier Scallop Spine Personalized List Notepads. This stylish set of notepads is a more refined boss day gift idea than typical office supplies. Designed by Matilda Goad & Co, known for scallop wave designs, each notepad features 50 thick tear-away pages and a foldable cover. Personalization adds a thoughtful touch, making these notepads a practical and aesthetically pleasing gift for a boss who values organization and beautiful stationery.
For The Boss Who Likes A Good Cheese Board
Harry & David Gourmet Cheese Assortment
Treat your boss to a gourmet experience with the Harry & David Gourmet Cheese Assortment. This luxurious boss day gift idea brings a curated cheese selection right to their door. This basket includes four award-winning cheeses with diverse flavors and textures, from semi-hard Toma cheese to creamy BellaVitano Gold. Two-day express shipping is included, ensuring freshness. For an enhanced gift, you can add extra items like condiments, wine, or non-alcoholic beverages to create a complete cheese board experience.
For The Boss Worthy of Toasting (Sans The Alcohol)
Champignon Dreams
Celebrate your boss with a sophisticated and alcohol-free option: Champignon Dreams by De Soi. This non-alcoholic champagne-style beverage is a unique boss day gift idea for the health-conscious or non-drinking boss. With high ratings, this drink features adaptogens like reishi and passion flower and a complex flavor profile with notes of strawberries and grapefruit. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and low in calories. Reviewers praise its rich flavors and patio-perfect enjoyment, making it a refined and thoughtful way to toast to their leadership.
For The Boss Who Runs On (Good) Coffee
LC Starter Pack
For the coffee-loving boss, the LC Starter Pack from La Colombe Coffee Roasters is a premium boss day gift idea that will elevate their daily coffee ritual. La Colombe, known for its European-style roasts, offers this set with two of their best-selling blends: Corsica (chocolatey and bold) and Nizza (sweetly nutty and smooth). Paired with a quality cafe-style mug and saucer, this set brings a gourmet coffee shop experience right to their desk, perfect for the boss who appreciates a good cup of coffee.
For The Boss Who Lends A Hand
Salt & Stone Hand Cream Duo
Show your boss you care about their well-being with the Salt & Stone Hand Cream Duo. A set of luxurious hand creams is a practical boss day gift idea that everyone can appreciate, yet often overlooks for themselves. Salt & Stone’s eco-friendly, nature-inspired creams are both nourishing and subtly scented, featuring ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide for deep moisturization. Reviewers praise the lightweight, non-greasy formula, making them perfect for everyday use at the office or on the go.
For The Boss With A Vinyl Collection
TeePublic Vintage Sunset Vinyl Record Turntable T-Shirt
Tap into your boss’s musical interests with the TeePublic Vintage Sunset Vinyl Record Turntable T-Shirt. If your boss often mentions classic rock or vinyl records, this retro-style tee is a unique and personalized boss day gift idea. Designed by independent artists and available on TeePublic, it caters to their hobbies and passions. If apparel isn’t the right fit, the same vintage design is also available as a sticker, mug, and other items, offering versatile options for music-loving bosses.
For The Francophile Boss
Ladurée Paris Destination Box of 8 Macarons
Transport your boss to Paris with the Ladurée Paris Destination Box of 8 Macarons. For bosses who appreciate French culture or macarons, this elegant treat is a delightful boss day gift idea. Ladurée, a renowned Parisian patisserie, offers a chef’s selection of eight classic and seasonal macaron flavors in a beautifully designed destination-themed box. Gluten-free and exquisitely flavored, these macarons are a sophisticated and delicious way to show appreciation.
For The Boss Who Likes Nice Pens
Poketo Prism Rollerball Pens (Pack of 5)
Move beyond the typical fountain pen and consider the Poketo Prism Rollerball Pens (Pack of 5) for a stylish and functional boss day gift idea. These colorful pens are not only visually appealing but also practical for everyday use. Featuring a chrome finish, a comfortable prism-like grip, and smooth black rollerball ink, they are both beautiful to display and a pleasure to write with. This set of pens is a thoughtful and aesthetically pleasing office accessory.
For The Healthy And Energized Boss
Golde Superwhisk + Matcha Kit
Support your boss’s healthy lifestyle with the Golde Superwhisk + Matcha Kit. If your boss is a matcha enthusiast, this kit is a perfect boss day gift idea. Golde’s Pure Matcha is known for its delicious taste and health benefits, providing sustained energy without jitters. The set includes ceremonial grade matcha and a USB-rechargeable frother for quickly making matcha lattes or enjoying matcha hot or iced. It’s a thoughtful gift for a boss who values wellness and a healthy energy boost.
For The Boss With A (Not So) Green Thumb
Easyplant Fishbone Cactus
Bring some greenery to your boss’s workspace with the Easyplant Fishbone Cactus, a low-maintenance boss day gift idea for plant lovers with busy schedules. Easyplant offers a variety of easy-care plants, and the Fishbone Cactus, with its unique zig-zag leaves, adds a touch of visual interest. Housed in a stylish ceramic pot and requiring watering only once a month thanks to Easyplant’s self-watering system, it’s a hassle-free way to add life to their office.
For The ‘Perfect’ Boss Who Loves Candles
Perfectwhitetee The Perfect Candle
Create a calming office ambiance with the Perfectwhitetee The Perfect Candle. This candle is a sophisticated boss day gift idea, described as the “perfect white tee” of candles for its minimalist design and subtle, clean fragrance. With notes of sandalwood, bergamot, and cedar, it offers a refined scent without being overpowering. The soy wax base ensures a longer and cleaner burn. Alternatively, consider gifting a Perfectwhitetee long-sleeved shirt for a cozy and stylish apparel option.
For The Boss Who Gets Chilly In The Office
Mark & Graham Personalized Turkish Cotton Throw
Combat office chills with the Mark & Graham Personalized Turkish Cotton Throw. A cozy blanket is a thoughtful and practical boss day gift idea, especially for offices that tend to be cold. Whether they are in the office or working remotely, this 100% Turkish cotton throw provides warmth and comfort without being too heavy. Personalize it with an embroidered monogram for a special touch and to ensure it doesn’t get borrowed by anyone else in the office.
For The Boss Who Sits For Long Hours
Purple Back Cushion
Support your boss’s well-being with the Purple Back Cushion, a health-conscious boss day gift idea for those who spend long hours sitting. While a high-end ergonomic office chair might be too extravagant, this back cushion offers excellent lumbar support and promotes good posture. Made with Purple’s breathable and hypoallergenic Grid material, it provides comfort and support throughout the workday, making it a caring and practical gift.
Should You Get Your Boss A Gift For Boss’ Day?
Giving a gift on Boss’s Day is not mandatory, as it is considered a minor holiday. However, it’s a thoughtful gesture to show appreciation if you want to acknowledge your boss’s leadership and support. A small, sincere gift can be a nice way to express gratitude without feeling obligated. Just avoid overly extravagant gifts that could create awkwardness for both you and your boss.
What Do You Get Your Boss For Boss’ Day?
When choosing boss day gift ideas, gifting expert Jennie Graham recommends selecting something that aligns with your boss’s known interests and preferences. Personal observation is key, but avoid overly personal gifts. If you’re unsure about their hobbies, consult someone knowledgeable in that area. Keep the gift budget-friendly, around $50 or less, to emphasize appreciation rather than appearing to seek favor. Crucially, ensure the gift complies with company policies, and unless you are certain it will be appreciated, avoid alcohol. Safe and universally appreciated boss day gift ideas from this list include the Knack Big Time Thank You Gift Set, the personalized Stanley The Quencher, and the UrbanStems The Unicorn Bouquet.
