Gift-giving to colleagues and employees can be a nuanced affair. Navigating the professional landscape while aiming for a personal touch requires careful consideration. Forget impersonal paperweights and generic office supplies. The key is to find gifts that are both appropriate for the workplace and genuinely appreciated. This guide offers a curated selection of Gift Ideas For Office Staff that strike the perfect balance of professional and thoughtful, drawing on expert etiquette advice to ensure your gifts land well and boost office morale.
Desk Enhancements for Productivity and Personalization
A well-organized and pleasant workspace can significantly impact productivity and daily mood. Consider these desk-friendly gifts that blend functionality with a touch of personality.
Three by Three Seattle Desktop To-Do Board
$12 at Amazon
Ditch the clutter of sticky notes with the Three by Three Seattle Desktop To-Do Board. This sleek dry-erase board offers a reusable space for reminders and tasks. Its minimalist design complements any office decor and includes a handy pocket for notes and business cards. Available in white, stainless steel, and gold, it’s a practical and stylish organizational tool for any office staff member.
MoMA Pear Pod Multifunctional Desktop Organizer
View on Moma.org
Add a touch of whimsy and organization with the MoMA Pear Pod Multifunctional Desktop Organizer. This charming pear-shaped container is more than just desk decor; it’s a surprisingly spacious organizer for pens, pencils, paper clips, and other small office essentials. Its unique design from the MoMA Design Store brings a playful yet functional element to any workspace.
Nordik Leather Desk Mat
$22 at Amazon
Elevate any office aesthetic with the Nordik Leather Desk Mat. This faux leather mat provides a sophisticated and functional workspace. Large enough to accommodate a laptop and mouse, it also features integrated cable management to keep desks tidy and streamlined. Available in 12 colors, from classic neutrals to bold hues, it’s a stylish upgrade for any office staff member’s desk.
Yamazaki Cable Management Box
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$40 at Amazon
Tame unsightly cords with the Yamazaki Cable Management Box. This minimalist box discreetly hides power strips and excess cables, creating a cleaner and more organized workspace. Its simple design blends seamlessly into any office environment, and it’s available in neutral colors to suit various preferences. A practical gift for anyone struggling with desk clutter.
Comfort and Wellness Gifts for the Office
Long hours at a desk can take a toll. Gifts focused on comfort and well-being are thoughtful and demonstrate care for your office staff’s overall health.
ComfiLife Foot Rest for Under Desk
$44 at Amazon
Promote ergonomic comfort with the ComfiLife Foot Rest for Under Desk. Made from high-density memory foam, this footrest elevates feet and legs, reducing pressure on the lower back and improving posture. It’s a thoughtful gift that shows you care about your office staff’s well-being and long-term comfort at their desks.
forestfish Fleece Wearable Blanket
$18 at Amazon
For the eternally cold office worker, the forestfish Fleece Wearable Blanket is a cozy and considerate gift. This soft, wearable blanket drapes over the shoulders and lap, providing warmth without restricting movement. The stylish plaid pattern is office-appropriate, and the snap closure ensures it stays in place. A thoughtful way to combat office chills.
Desk Yoga Card Deck
$18 at Amazon
Encourage wellness breaks with the Desk Yoga Card Deck from Uncommon Goods. This deck features 52 simple stretches designed to be done right at a desk. These quick exercises can help relieve stress, improve circulation, and boost mental clarity throughout the workday. A gift that promotes both physical and mental well-being in the office.
Beverage and Snack Gifts for Office Enjoyment
Food and drink-related gifts are often universally appreciated in an office setting, fostering a sense of shared enjoyment and daily comfort.
Yeti Rambler Stackable Mug
$25 at Amazon
For coffee and tea enthusiasts, the Yeti Rambler Stackable Mug is a durable and practical gift. Known for its exceptional insulation, this mug keeps beverages hot or cold for extended periods. The included lid minimizes spills, and its stackable design is ideal for office storage. Available in various sizes and colors, it’s a premium mug for daily office use.
Stojo Collapsible Travel Cup
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$20 at Amazon
Promote sustainability and convenience with the Stojo Collapsible Travel Cup. This reusable cup collapses down to a mere 2 inches, making it incredibly portable and easy to store in a bag or drawer. Perfect for commutes and office use, it’s suitable for both hot and cold drinks and includes a straw. An eco-friendly and practical gift for the environmentally conscious office staff member.
Mr. Coffee Electric Mug Warmer
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$17 at Amazon
Say goodbye to lukewarm coffee with the Mr. Coffee Electric Mug Warmer. This simple yet effective device keeps mugs of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate at the perfect temperature, even during busy workdays. Compact and portable, it’s a practical gift for anyone who savors a hot beverage throughout the morning or afternoon at the office.
Jacobsen Salt Co. Salty Caramels
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View on Jacobsensalt.com
Treat your office staff to a gourmet indulgence with Jacobsen Salt Co.’s Salty Caramels. These handcrafted caramels offer a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, made with high-quality ingredients. A sophisticated and delicious treat that’s a step above standard office snacks, ideal for showing appreciation with a touch of luxury.
Olive & Cocoa Tastes for Everyone
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View on Oliveandcocoa.com
For a shareable treat or a more substantial gift, the Olive & Cocoa Tastes for Everyone basket is an excellent choice. This gourmet food basket is filled with a variety of snacks and treats, from savory to sweet, designed to please diverse palates. Available in different sizes, it’s perfect for team sharing or as a more generous individual gift.
Seven Sisters Scones Mini Scones Assortment
View on Goldbelly.com
Skip the usual donuts and opt for a more refined office treat with the Seven Sisters Scones Mini Scones Assortment. This assortment of chef-selected mini scones offers a variety of delicious flavors, from classic to unique. Perfect for office breakfasts or afternoon snacks, these gourmet scones are a delightful way to elevate office treats.
Sugarwish The Appreciation Sugarwish
View on Sugarwish.com
When you’re unsure of specific tastes, Sugarwish provides a flexible and delightful gifting solution. Send a Sugarwish, and your office staff can choose their preferred treats, from candies to cookies, wines, or even candles. You select the size, and the recipient gets to personalize their gift, ensuring satisfaction and reducing guesswork.
Fun and Unique Gifts to Lighten the Office Mood
Inject some personality and fun into the office environment with these unique and lighthearted gift ideas.
Brass Monkey Notepad Set
$12 at Amazon
For the coworker with a great sense of humor, the Brass Monkey Notepad Set adds a touch of vintage snark to the workday. This set of 11 notepads features humorous prompts and trackers for daily moods, coffee consumption, and experience ratings. A fun and quirky gift for those who appreciate office humor.
Genuine Fred Daily Sampler Desktop Affirmations
View on Genuinefred.com
Inject some levity into the office with the Genuine Fred Daily Sampler Desktop Affirmations. This set of 32 desk affirmations features humorous and relatable phrases like “I’m just here for the coffee” and “It could be worse.” The cross-stitched design and gold frame add a decorative touch to the humor, making it a fun conversation starter.
Uncommon Goods Corporate Nonsense Generator
$50 at Uncommon Goods
For a truly unique and stress-relieving gift, consider the Uncommon Goods Corporate Nonsense Generator. This fidget device features wooden segments with corporate jargon adverbs, verbs, and nouns. It’s designed to elicit laughs and provide a humorous distraction from office stress. A quirky and memorable gift for those who appreciate playful office humor.
Brookspot Freak In The Sheets Mug
$13 at Etsy
Celebrate the office Excel whiz with the Brookspot “Freak In The Sheets” Mug. This cheeky mug is a playful nod to spreadsheet proficiency and is sure to bring a smile to any data-loving coworker’s face. A fun and functional gift for those who excel in the details.
Uncommon Goods Desktop Pickleball
$15 at Uncommon Goods
For the sports enthusiast, the Uncommon Goods Desktop Pickleball set offers a fun office diversion. This miniature set includes paddles, balls, and a net that suctions to desks, allowing for quick games during lunch breaks or downtime. A playful gift to encourage office fun and friendly competition.
3D Printed Delight Mini Floor Sign
$9 at Etsy
Help manage office interruptions with the 3D Printed Delight Mini Floor Sign. This desktop sandwich board comes with customizable messages like “On a Call” or “Do Not Disturb.” A practical and slightly humorous way to signal availability and manage office interactions, especially in open-plan environments.
Practical and Useful Gifts for the Office
Gifts that enhance efficiency and organization are always welcome in a professional setting. These practical options are both useful and appreciated.
Supvan E10 Bluetooth Label Maker
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$30 at Amazon
Organization is key in any office, and the Supvan E10 Bluetooth Label Maker makes it easy and stylish. This compact label maker connects to smartphones via Bluetooth, offering a wide range of templates, fonts, and icons for customization. A practical gift for keeping files, supplies, and storage spaces neatly labeled.
OXO Good Grips Keyboard & Screen Deep Clean
$12 at Amazon
Maintain a clean and healthy workspace with the OXO Good Grips Keyboard & Screen Deep Clean set. This set includes a brush, microfiber cloth, and loop brush designed to effectively clean keyboards and screens. A practical gift that promotes hygiene and keeps office tech in top condition.
Prowithlin Desktop Vacuum Cleaner
$13 at Amazon
For quick desk clean-ups, the Prowithlin Desktop Vacuum Cleaner is a handy and adorable gadget. This mini USB-rechargeable vacuum is perfect for removing crumbs, dust, and debris from keyboards and desk surfaces. A practical and charming way to keep workspaces tidy.
Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook
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$26 at Amazon
Embrace digital-analog synergy with the Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook. This innovative notebook allows users to write notes, scan them to digital platforms via an app, and then erase the pages for reuse. An eco-friendly and tech-forward gift for the note-taking office staff member.
Clever Fox Weekly Planner 2nd Edition
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$28 at Amazon
Boost productivity with the Clever Fox Weekly Planner 2nd Edition. This undated planner allows for flexible start dates and includes sections for monthly and weekly planning, goal setting, and personalization stickers. A helpful tool for office staff to stay organized and manage their workload effectively.
Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens
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$13 at Amazon
A set of quality pens is always appreciated in an office environment. The Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens offer a smooth writing experience with vibrant, quick-drying ink that resists smudging. This 14-pack of assorted colors adds a touch of fun to everyday office tasks and note-taking.
PhoneSoap Screen Cleaner Spray
$10 at Amazon
Promote hygiene with the PhoneSoap Shine Screen Cleaner Spray. This 2-in-1 cleaner includes a spray solution and a microfiber cloth to keep phone and device screens clean from fingerprints and germs. A practical gift that encourages a healthier office environment, especially in shared workspaces.
Personalized and Thoughtful Gifts for Appreciation
Show genuine appreciation with gifts that have a personal touch or cater to individual preferences.
Anthropologie Tiled Margot Monogram Mug
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$14 at Anthropologie
Add a personal touch with the Anthropologie Tiled Margot Monogram Mug. Inspired by French bistro tiles, this stoneware mug can be personalized with a monogram, making it a thoughtful and unique gift. A stylish and individualized mug that elevates the daily coffee or tea ritual.
Weddings Decor & More Custom Desk Name Plate
$20 at Etsy
Enhance office sophistication with a Weddings Decor & More Custom Desk Name Plate. Made from solid wood and customizable with names and job titles, these nameplates add a professional and personalized touch to any desk. Available in various sizes and fonts, it’s a classic gift that conveys respect and recognition.
Keyaiira Custom Leather Cable Organizer
$13 at Amazon
Elevate cable organization with the Keyaiira Custom Leather Cable Organizer. Made from genuine leather and personalized with initials or names, this cable organizer combines practicality with a touch of luxury. A thoughtful and stylish way to help office staff keep their tech accessories organized and tangle-free.
Flowering Box Dried Flower Bouquet
$13 at Etsy
Express appreciation with the lasting beauty of a Flowering Box Dried Flower Bouquet. These small dried floral arrangements come with customizable messages of gratitude, making them a heartfelt and enduring gift. Choose from various bouquet styles and messages to convey your thanks in a personal and visually appealing way.
Sweet Water Decor Thank You Candle
$24 at Amazon
Create a pleasant office ambiance with the Sweet Water Decor Thank You Candle. Made with quality materials and a clean burn, this candle features a refreshing citrus scent with notes of orange, lemon, and tropical fruit. A fragrant and thoughtful way to show appreciation and enhance the office environment with a pleasant aroma.
Gift Cards: Versatile Options for Office Staff
When in doubt, gift cards offer flexibility and ensure your office staff can choose something they truly want or need.
Starbucks Gift Card
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$15 at Amazon
A Starbucks Gift Card is a universally appreciated option for coffee, tea, or lunch. Available in various denominations and designs, it’s a convenient and versatile gift that allows your office staff to enjoy a treat of their choice. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a casual office outing.
Instacart Gift Card
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$25 at Amazon
Offer practical support with an Instacart Gift Card. This gift card helps with grocery shopping, household essentials, and even toiletries, making weekly errands less burdensome. A thoughtful and helpful gift, especially for busy office staff, providing convenience and time-saving assistance.
Navigating Office Gift-Giving Etiquette
To ensure your gifts are well-received and appropriate, consider these etiquette guidelines, informed by Daniel Post Senning of the Emily Post Institute:
Gift Value: “A gift exchange should make everyone feel good, and that includes the person giving the gift. Part of doing that well is knowing and understanding your budget as well as the expectations around the event or gift, and then making good choices,” advises Senning. Setting a price limit beforehand can help manage expectations and ensure comfortable gift-giving for everyone.
Appropriateness: Avoid overly personal gifts or gag gifts that could be misinterpreted or cause offense in a professional setting. Focus on items that are office-appropriate and generally useful or enjoyable.
Gifts to Superiors: Gift-giving to a boss is never obligatory. If you choose to give a gift, consider pooling resources for a group gift to avoid any perception of favoritism or obligation. If managing a team, Senning suggests giving gifts to all team members to maintain fairness and avoid feelings of differential treatment.
Occasions for Gift-Giving: Birthdays, holidays, team departures, and retirements are appropriate occasions for office gift-giving. However, remember that gift-giving should always be voluntary and never feel like an obligation.
By choosing thoughtful, appropriate, and genuinely helpful gifts, you can effectively show appreciation for your office staff, boost morale, and foster a positive and supportive work environment.
