Want to “welcome back” your colleagues to the office in a unique way? Or maybe you just want to brighten up their day? You can do so by giving them a gift. Whether your gift is big or small, the surprise will surely boost their mood as you all go back to working at the office. If you need help with what to give, check out these 12 gift ideas that would be perfect for any co-worker.
Face Masks
A practical gift idea is a face mask, as it can promote everyone’s health and safety in the shared space. Your colleagues can keep the mask in their desk drawers for emergencies, or use it whenever they go to the office. You can also consider buying antimicrobial face masks with neck loop to guarantee that they’ll be comfortable enough to wear all day long as the mask is worn around the head rather than simply looped at the ears.
Socks
Socks are a great gift idea, as almost everyone uses them either to keep their feet warm or to wear with their shoes. Socks can also come in fun and quirky designs, so they brighten up a person’s outfit and mood. If your office allows employees to dress casually, you can choose an interesting print for your co-workers to wear with their pants so that design peeks through when they sit.
Desk Calendar
Like you, your co-workers may have trouble keeping up with the days and months of the year. Help them take note of the date with a handy desk calendar. These calendars can also have inspirational messages or quotes to help them get through a tough day.
Sticky Notes
Sticky notes have evolved from just plain squares to more color options and fun designs. They can even come in sets with templates for callback information, appointment details, and checklists. They’re useful for any employee, so giving one to your colleagues will surely help them with their work.
Pens
Pens are a handy gift you can give to your colleagues, especially if they like taking notes. They’re also a great gift idea for a co-worker who always seems to be losing their pens. Even if they’re neither of the above, pens are handy tools to always have available, so your colleagues will appreciate having a useful addition to their desk supplies.
Snacks
Snacks are inexpensive gift ideas that you can buy in bulk to make sure all your officemates get a gift. They’re great for replenishing energy throughout the day, so you and your colleagues can work more efficiently. You can give snacks like nuts, trail mix, cookies, pretzels, popcorn, and more.
Sweets
If your colleagues have more of a sweet tooth, you can get them candies like chocolates, gummies, and jelly beans. These candies can also come as single prepackaged items so all your co-workers can get a few. Chocolate bars, in particular, sometimes have sweet messages on their wrapper that can cheer up anyone.
Good Quality Instant Coffee
Coffee is essential to any workplace. While your office might already provide some brew options, you can treat your colleagues to higher-quality beans or with fancy premixes that feature different flavors. These coffee packets will surely make them perk up at the first sip and allow them to tackle the workday fully alert.
Tea
For colleagues who may not like coffee, tea is a good alternative. Some teas like green tea offer the same effects as coffee, helping to keep them awake and focused. And if you know your colleagues well, you can even personalize the tea flavor to the one you know they’ll like.
Insulated Mugs or Tumbler
Insulated mugs or tumblers are great presents that also help your co-workers stay hydrated. These mugs or tumblers keep drinks warm or cold for long hours, so your colleagues can take their time enjoying their chosen beverage. Insulated mugs or tumblers can also help reduce plastic and paper waste brought on by buying from a coffee shop or getting water from a dispenser with a plastic cup.
Desk Organizer
Your colleagues might be bringing a lot of work things from home, so help them keep their desks clutter-free with a desk organizer. A desk organizer can also help them maximize their desk space by giving them places to store their stationery items, phone, charging cables, and more. This leaves them with more room for their work laptop and documents, among other desk essentials.
Picture Frames
Give your colleagues a picture frame to decorate their desks. They can put pictures of their loved ones, like family members and pets, or printed photos of inspirational quotes. These frames are not only great for personalizing their workspace but also a good way to boost their mood as they spend time away from home.
Giving gifts is a simple gesture you can use to better engage with your co-workers, especially the ones that you are meeting for the first time. By giving your colleagues a small token, you’re showing them an act of kindness and helping to create a positive work environment in your office. Not only will it brighten up their mood, but these gift ideas will also surely help you build lasting relations with the people you work with.
HR Future Staff Writer
