Finding the perfect gift ideas for coworkers can be a delicate task. You want to show your appreciation without going overboard or making anyone uncomfortable.
Whether it’s for a holiday, birthday, work anniversary or just because, a well-chosen gift is a wonderful way to strengthen bonds and spread positivity in the workplace.
To help you nail the gift-giving, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide full of fabulous coworker gift ideas across different categories and price points. Let’s get started!
Gifts Under $25
Sometimes you want to give a modest token of appreciation without breaking the bank. These affordable options make perfect little pick-me-ups:
Gourmet Snacks & Treats – A tasty snack pack or box of fancy candies/chocolates is an easy crowdpleaser. Look for unique flavors and high-quality ingredients.
Punny Desk Accessories – Whimsical yet functional items like paperclip holders, pen cups, or sticky note pads with amusing puns are both useful and smile-inducing.
Inspirational Books/Journals – For the motivated go-getter, a motivational book or lovely journal can encourage goal-setting and positivity.
Quirky Novelty Items – Silly desk toys, fun socks, or other small novelty gifts allow you to play into their personality with a dash of humor.
Charitable Donations – Make a donation to a cause meaningful to them in their name for a thoughtful yet inexpensive gesture.
$25 – $50 Gifts
For a more substantial gift without going overboard, this price range offers some stellar mid-range options:
Gift Cards – A practical yet flexible gift, you can get creative with store choices that align with their hobbies/interests.
Premium Drinkware – A high-quality travel mug, funny beer glass or unique cocktail set caters to beverage interests.
Experience Gifts – Tickets for activities like movies, museums, classes etc. give an experiential treat.
Self-Care Pampering – Spa products, bath bombs, scented candles and more for some rejuvenating relaxation.
Unique Plants/Planters – Brighten their space with a low-maintenance succulent, bonsai tree or quirky ceramic planter pot.
Tech Accessories – Bluetooth speakers, portable chargers, fun phone cases or headphones are functional yet fun.
$50 – $100+ Splurge Gifts
For a more significant gift for a valued coworker, open your budget a bit more with these premium options:
Smart Home Tech – Voice assistants, smart bulbs/plugs, robot vacuums and more cool smart home gadgets are all the rage.
Quality Wearables – A nice watch, trendy jewelry pieces, cozy cashmere accessories etc. add a touch of luxury.
Gourmet Food/Drink Baskets – Elevate your edible gift with artisanal treats, wines/spirits, exotic coffees or luxury ingredients.
Hobby/Interest Gifts – For enthusiast coworkers, splurge on high-quality items related to hobbies like golf, music, cooking etc.
Subscription Boxes – Gift boxes that keep on giving with monthly curated goodies for different interests.
Electronics – Tech gifts like premium headphones, e-readers, fitness trackers or gaming accessories are sure to wow.
Group Gift Ideas
If you’re collecting for a team gift, go for a bigger-ticket item everyone can enjoy:
Food/Drink Baskets – Gourmet food/beverage baskets make great sharable treats for the whole office crew.
Gift Cards – Group gift cards to restaurants or experience places give optionality for teams.
Tech Gifts – A smart TV, sound system, gaming console or connected home devices for the lounge/break room.
Office Décor – Spruce up the space with new furniture, plants, artwork or accessories.
Experience Gifts – Tickets to events like comedy shows, cooking classes, sporting events etc. for team bonding.
Personalized Gifts
Take your gift to the next level by adding a personal touch. Customize with their name, inside jokes, interests and more:
Monogrammed Accessories – Initials or names make office supplies, bags, drinkware etc. extra special.
Custom Photo Gifts – Printed photos, calendars, artwork or even puzzles with inside jokes or memorable snapshots.
Engraved Barware – Bartool sets, glassware, flasks or bottle openers can be engraved for a premium look.
Customized Desk Items – Engrave pens, paperweights, nameplates and more for a sophisticated desk accessory.
Personalized Coffee Mugs – Add clever in-jokes, their name or quirky designs for the perfect daily cup.
Embroidered Apparel – Jackets, blankets, hats and more embroidered with names or inside humor.
Interest-Based Gift Ideas
For the most thoughtful gift, zone in on your coworker’s particular passions and hobbies with themed gifts:
For the Foodie:
- Gourmet cooking/baking ingredients
- Artisanal food/drink subscriptions
- Unique kitchenware or tools
- Cookbook by their favorite chef
- Wine/spirit tasting experience
For the Traveler:
- Luggage sets or travel accessories
- Language learning subscriptions
- Guidebooks/coffee table travel books
- Souvenirs from dream destinations
- Portable translator device
For the Fitness Buff:
- New workout apparel/shoes
- Fitness tracker or smartwatch
- Exercise equipment like weights, bands, balls
- Health/fitness subscription box
- Class passes for yoga, cycling, etc.
For the Book Lover:
- Books by their favorite authors
- E-reader loaded with new titles
- Decorative bookends
- Book subscription box service
- Book lover tote bags and apparel
For the Homebody:
- Cozy throws and slippers
- Streaming subscriptions
- Scented candles and room sprays
- Indoor gardening kits
- Puzzle sets and board games
For the Crafter:
- Supplies for knitting, sewing, jewelry-making etc.
- Adult coloring books and art supplies
- Calligraphy or hand-lettering kits
- Craft storage and organization tools
- Subscription craft box
Special Occasion Gifts
Certain occasions call for extra-special gifts to commemorate major life events and milestones:
Retirement Gift – Celebrate their career with a personalized robe, retirement tote, classy desk accessories or a luxe experience gift.
New Baby Gift – Welcome the new addition with baby apparel, books, toys, gift cards for services or nursery items.
Wedding Gift – Splurge on nicer home goods, experiences, kitchenware or custom home bar accessories.
Promotion Gift – Upgrade their workspace with new tech, upscale desk sets, briefcases or branded apparel.
Anniversary Gift – Whether work or personal, commemorate with an engraved plaque, jewelry or framed photos.
Farewell Gift – Send them off in style with a gift basket, monogrammed luggage or subscription box of goodies.
Virtual Gift Ideas
For remote coworkers, send care packages and virtual gift cards for services:
Streaming Service Subscriptions – Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, music services etc.
Virtual Experiences – Cooking classes, wine tastings, game nights etc.
Food/Snack Deliveries – Have gourmet treats, baked goods or full meals delivered.
Self-Care Deliveries – Ship spa packages, flower bouquets or wellness subscriptions.
Digital Gift Cards – For app stores, e-book shops, food delivery and more.
Online Learning – MasterClass subscriptions or single course purchases.
Conclusion
No matter your budget or how well you know your coworker, you’re sure to find the ideal gift ideas for coworkers.
The most important thing is putting thought into selecting something tailored to their interests that conveys your genuine appreciation.
FAQs About Gift Ideas for Coworkers
How much should I spend on a coworker gift?
There is no set dollar amount that is universally appropriate for coworker gifts. An acceptable range is typically $10-$100, depending on your relationship and the occasion. The article provides gift suggestions organized by different price tiers from under $25 to $50-$100+ to guide your budget decision.
What if I don’t know my coworker very well?
If you don’t know the coworker extremely well, it’s best to go with safer, more generic yet still thoughtful options. Good choices include: gourmet food gifts, gift cards, small desk accessories, self-care items like candles/spa products, or consumable treats. Avoid anything too personal unless you are very close.
Are personalized or monogrammed gifts a good idea for coworkers?
Personalized gifts can add a nice custom touch, but should be reserved for coworkers you know well enough to cater the personalization appropriately. For close work friends, monogrammed items, inside jokes, and customized gifts with photos make great personal touches. For less familiar coworkers, stick to simpler personalization like just their initials monogrammed.
What are appropriate gift ideas for a boss or higher-up coworker?
When gifting to someone above you in the workplace hierarchy, it’s best to avoid anything too casual or personal to maintain boundaries. Stick to slightly more formal options like: gourmet food/wine baskets, quality desk accessories, books, tech items like portable chargers, or experiential gifts like event tickets. Adding a handwritten note keeps it respectful.
What are good virtual/remote coworker gift ideas?
For remote coworkers you may not see in person, virtual gifts are ideal. These include: food/snack deliveries, subscription services like streaming or MasterClass, self-care packages with items like candles or flowers delivered, digital gift cards, and virtual experience gifts like online cooking classes or tastings. The key is choosing things that can be enjoyed from their home.
