Finding the right gifts for coworkers at Christmas can feel like a daunting task. You want to show appreciation without breaking the bank, and it’s easy to overthink. This is where team holiday gifts come in. We’ll help you discover thoughtful, stress-free ideas to make your coworkers feel valued and appreciated.
Giftpack is a helpful tool for finding and customizing company branded swag that your team will love.
Is Giving Coworkers Gifts Ethical?
Anything involving a business should always be done within the rules instituted by your organization. Gifts should not be given with the intent to manipulate, flatter, dominate, or tease your colleagues. Gift giving is not mandatory, but there are huge benefits to coworker gifts.
The pragmatic reason to have a healthy culture of gift-giving is to enhance the strategic output of work, but you do this by allowing colleagues to show their appreciation for each other on their own. More importantly than the pragmatic reason, gifts are an important way of communicating care for the other person.
Should You give coworker gifts?
Giving gifts to coworkers and colleagues is the most straightforward office gift exchange. As we continue to state, just make sure the gift is given to give and not to gain any favor. Giving [ntending to procure an outcome other than a show of appreciation is not gift-giving.
Why are Christmas Gifts for Coworkers Important?
Christmas gifts for coworkers can be powerful tools for building bridges and enhancing camaraderie. Since employees spend so much time together, even in remote settings, thoughtful gestures like sending a coffee or sharing an interesting article can enhance camaraderie. Building stronger relationships can create a more enjoyable work experience and a supportive environment.
A Boost for Productivity and Engagement
Holiday gifts can significantly boost employee morale, especially during stressful periods. Employees who feel appreciated through thoughtful gifts are more likely to be motivated and engaged. Curious to know the impact?
Research shows that gifts can improve performance by as much as 25%. Many employees report feeling satisfied months after receiving gifts, which indicates long-term positive effects on morale.
Gratitude Goes a Long Way
Offering Christmas gifts is a tangible way to express gratitude for employees' efforts throughout the year. When coworkers feel appreciated, they are often more willing to go the extra mile, contributing to a culture of gratitude within the workplace. This appreciation can manifest in increased loyalty and commitment to the organization.
Celebrating Together: Fostering a Positive Culture
Gifts contribute to a positive workplace culture by creating a sense of unity and goodwill among employees. Celebrating the holiday season together through gifting helps cultivate an environment where employees feel valued and connected. This can enhance collaboration and teamwork.
Bridging the Gap: Remote Team Connection
For remote or hybrid teams, Christmas gifts can help bridge the physical distance between coworkers. Sending gifts during the holiday season fosters a sense of connection and belonging, making remote employees feel included and appreciated despite not being physically present in the office.
Personalized Corporate Gifting Made Easy
At Giftpack, our client gifting service simplifies the corporate gifting process while maximizing the impact of each gift. Try Giftpack's client gifting service for free today.
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What Gifts Do Coworkers Want for Christmas?
Practical Gifts for Every Day
Coworkers prefer gifts they can use. Think of high-quality water bottles, reusable bags, or ergonomic desk accessories. These items are not just practical; they're also long-lasting.
By choosing useful gifts, you're more likely to give something that doesn't get tossed aside. People appreciate it when you consider what might help them in their day-to-day lives.
Wellness and Personal Enjoyment
Self-care is a big deal. Your coworkers will appreciate gifts that let them relax or stay motivated. Cozy blankets, wellness kits, and personalized journals can make a big difference.
These gifts show you're thinking about their well-being, not just the work they do. Small touches like this go a long way in showing appreciation.
Tech and Trendy Items
Tech gadgets are always a good choice. Wireless chargers or smart home devices make for exciting gifts. People like to feel up-to-date with the latest trends, and tech is a great way to do that. You could also go for something eco-friendly or sustainable, as these items are increasingly popular. Trendy gifts can make coworkers feel more connected to modern tastes.
61 Awesome Gifts for Coworkers Christmas
1. Scented Candles
A soothing, scented candle can create a calming atmosphere at home or office. Look for candles with natural ingredients and relaxing scents like lavender or eucalyptus for a thoughtful and relaxing gift.
2. Aromatherapy Diffusers
An aromatherapy diffuser allows your coworker to enjoy the benefits of essential oils. With calming or energizing scents, a diffuser can enhance focus, relaxation, or mood, making it a perfect wellness gift.
3. Stress-Relief Toys (Fidget Cubes, Stress Balls)
Fidget toys, like stress balls or cubes, quickly relieve tension during a busy workday. These small, tactile gifts can help reduce stress and improve focus, making them fun and practical.
4. Hand Creams or Lotions
A rich, nourishing hand cream helps combat dry skin, especially in winter. Choose subtle, gender-neutral scents or unscented options to make this thoughtful gift universally appreciated.
5. Cozy Blankets
A plush, cozy blanket is perfect for staying warm during cold winter. It’s a thoughtful, comfort-focused gift that your coworkers can enjoy at home or even drape over their chairs at the office.
6. Essential Oil Roller Sets
Essential oil rollers are great for on-the-go relaxation or energy boosts. These portable, pre-mixed oils can help reduce stress, improve focus, or promote relaxation, making them a useful and thoughtful wellness gift.
7. Bath Bomb Gift Sets
A bath bomb set adds a luxurious touch to your coworker’s self-care routine. These scented, fizzy additions to a bath create a spa-like experience at home, perfect for relaxation after a long workday.
8. Yoga Mats or Accessories
For coworkers who enjoy yoga or want to start, a quality yoga mat or accessories like straps and blocks make thoughtful wellness gifts. They promote health and wellness, encouraging mindfulness and exercise.
9. Herbal Tea Blends for Relaxation
Herbal tea blends, such as chamomile or peppermint, provide a relaxing and soothing beverage for unwinding. Choose organic or specialty teas to make this gift feel even more luxurious.
10. Reusable Heat Packs
A reusable heat pack is a simple but effective way to ease sore muscles or keep warm. These versatile gifts can be used for everything from neck pain relief to cozying up on a cold day.
11. Wellness Journals
A wellness journal encourages self-reflection and personal growth. With sections for tracking moods, habits, and goals, it’s a great tool for those interested in mindfulness and self-care.
12. Massage Tools
Portable massage tools like handheld massagers or massage rollers help alleviate tension and sore muscles. These practical gifts promote relaxation and are perfect for coworkers needing stress relief.
13. Sleep Masks
A comfortable sleep mask helps block light for a better night’s rest, making it a great gift for anyone who values a good night’s sleep. Choose soft, breathable fabrics for maximum comfort.
14. Soothing Tea Candles
Tea candles in calming scents like lavender or vanilla create a peaceful atmosphere. This simple gift can be used during relaxation time at home or to add ambiance to any space.
15. Wellness Subscription Boxes
A wellness subscription box delivers a curated collection of monthly self-care items, from skincare to relaxation tools. It’s a gift that keeps giving, a regular reminder to focus on wellness and relaxation.
16. Wireless Earbuds
Wireless earbuds make a practical yet modern gift for coworkers who love listening to music or podcasts on the go. They provide high-quality sound without the hassle of tangled wires and are perfect for commuting or during breaks.
17. Portable Phone Chargers
A portable phone charger ensures that your coworker’s devices never run out of battery, whether traveling or working long hours. Compact and easy to carry, this is a must-have tech accessory for anyone with a busy lifestyle.
18. Bluetooth Speakers
A Bluetooth speaker offers portability and high-quality sound, making it ideal for playing music during gatherings or at their desk. Small yet powerful, it’s a thoughtful gift for coworkers who enjoy great audio wherever they go.
19. Phone Holders for Desks
A phone holder for desks allows for hands-free calls, video meetings, or easy access to notifications. It keeps their phone in view without cluttering the workspace, offering convenience and organization.
20. Webcam Covers for Privacy
Webcam covers are practical, inexpensive gifts that ensure privacy when the camera isn’t used. A simple slide over the webcam prevents accidental video calls or privacy breaches, offering peace of mind.
21. USB Flash Drives with Unique Designs
Flash drives with unique designs, such as ones shaped like popular icons or objects, add a fun twist to this functional gift. They’re perfect for quickly transferring files or backing up data, making it practical and creative.
22. Tablet or Laptop Sleeves
A sleek and protective sleeve for tablets or laptops is a great way to help coworkers keep their devices safe while traveling. Choose a design that reflects their style, whether professional or playful.
23. Smart Plugs
Smart plugs make any appliance more efficient by allowing your coworker to control devices via a phone app. From turning off lights to scheduling electronics, these plugs bring a smart home experience to their daily routine.
24. Screen Cleaners
Screen cleaners are a thoughtful, practical gift to keep laptops, tablets, and smartphones free of smudges and fingerprints. Microfiber cleaning kits or sprays make it easy to maintain clean and clear screens.
25. Cable Adapters or USB Hubs
A versatile cable adapter or USB hub helps coworkers connect multiple devices or charge gadgets simultaneously. It is a highly useful gift for tech enthusiasts or anyone managing multiple devices on their desk.
26. Compact Bluetooth Keyboards
A compact Bluetooth keyboard is ideal for those who prefer typing on a physical keyboard rather than a tablet or phone. Lightweight and portable, it’s a great tool for on-the-go productivity.
27. Touchscreen Gloves
Touchscreen gloves keep hands warm while allowing your coworker to use their phone or tablet in the cold. These perfect winter accessories combine comfort with functionality, making them a seasonal favorite.
28. Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Noise-cancelling headphones are perfect for blocking distractions in a noisy office or commuting. High-quality sound and comfort help your coworker focus or relax during the day.
29. Fitness Trackers
A fitness tracker encourages wellness by helping coworkers monitor their activity, sleep, and heart rate. It’s a great gift for health-conscious individuals looking to stay active and track their progress.
30. Smart Mugs with Temperature Control
A smart mug with temperature control keeps drinks warm at the perfect temperature for hours. Ideal for coffee or tea lovers, this innovative mug ensures every sip is just right, even during long meetings or projects.
31. Puzzle Games or Brain Teasers
A puzzle game or brain teaser is an engaging gift that provides a mental break during the workday. These fun challenges help improve problem-solving skills while offering a playful distraction from daily tasks.
32. Trivia Card Games
Trivia card games offer a fun and interactive way for coworkers to bond over lunch or during breaks. These games come in various themes, from general knowledge to pop culture, making them a lighthearted gift.
33. Custom Socks
Custom socks with quirky designs or personalizations are a fun and thoughtful gift that adds personality to a mundane accessory. Choose patterns that match their hobbies or interests for an extra special touch.
34. Personalized Tote Bags
A personalized tote bag is both practical and stylish. Ideal for carrying daily essentials, it’s a thoughtful gift that can be customized with their name, initials, or a design that reflects their personality.
35. Inspirational Wall Art
Inspirational wall art with motivational quotes or unique designs is a gift that brings positivity to any workspace. It’s perfect for adding a personal touch to their office or home, offering daily encouragement.
36. DIY Craft Kits
DIY craft kits offer a creative outlet for coworkers who enjoy hands-on activities. Whether painting, knitting, or making jewelry, these kits provide everything needed to complete a fun and relaxing project.
37. Mini Board Games for the Break Room
Mini board games are a fun gift, encouraging interaction and relaxation during lunch breaks. Compact versions of popular games like chess or checkers can bring light-hearted competition to the workplace.
38. Custom Caricatures
A custom caricature of your coworker adds a playful and personal touch to their desk decor. These humorous portraits capture their likeness with exaggerated features, making it a unique and memorable gift.
39. Desk Toys (Kinetic Sand, Newton’s Cradle)
Desk toys like kinetic sand or Newton’s cradle provide a fun way to relieve stress during the day. These interactive items are both decorative and functional, offering a playful distraction from work.
40. Funny Custom T-Shirts
A funny custom t-shirt with an inside joke, witty phrase, or personalized design adds humor to their wardrobe. It’s a lighthearted gift that brings laughter to the workplace while showing you appreciate their sense of humor.
41. DIY Candle-Making Kits
A DIY candle-making kit provides everything needed to create personalized candles. It’s a creative and relaxing gift that results in a fragrant, handmade item your coworker can enjoy at home.
42. Personalized Ornaments
A personalized ornament with their name, year, or custom design is a festive way to spread holiday cheer. It’s a keepsake they’ll enjoy putting on their tree year after year, adding a personal touch to their holiday decor.
43. Movie Night Kits (Popcorn, Candy, Blankets)
A movie night kit with popcorn, candy, and a cozy blanket is a fun and thoughtful gift. It’s perfect for a relaxing night in and offers everything needed for an enjoyable viewing experience.
44. Experience Gift Cards (Cooking Class, Escape Room)
Give the gift of an experience with a gift card for a cooking class, escape room, or other fun activities. This allows coworkers to enjoy a memorable outing or try something new, making it a unique and thoughtful gift.
45. Unique Phone Cases
A unique phone case that reflects their personality through colors, patterns, or designs is practical and fun. It’s a useful gift that adds a personal touch to an item they use daily.
46. Holiday-Themed Scented Candles
Holiday-scented candles like pine, cinnamon, or gingerbread bring festive scents into any home or office. These aromatic candles help create a cozy and seasonal atmosphere, making them a perfect holiday gift.
47. Personalized Holiday Ornaments
A personalized holiday ornament with their name, year, or special design adds a personal touch to their holiday decor. This keepsake is something they can cherish each year when decorating their tree.
48. Winter Scarves
A stylish and warm winter scarf is a thoughtful, practical, fashionable seasonal gift. Choose soft, cozy materials in neutral colors or bold patterns to match their style.
49. Reusable Holiday Tote Bags
Reusable holiday tote bags with festive designs are perfect for carrying gifts or groceries during the season. These eco-friendly bags are practical and reduce waste, making them a thoughtful gift for environmentally conscious coworkers.
50. Hot Cocoa Bombs
Hot cocoa bombs are a fun, indulgent treat that melts into a delicious cup of cocoa when added to hot milk. These festive bombs are perfect for cozying up on cold winter days and make a fun addition to any holiday celebration.
51. Holiday Wreaths
A holiday wreath adorned with festive decorations adds warmth and cheer to any home or office. It’s a seasonal gift that brings instant holiday spirit and can be displayed throughout the season.
52. Snow Globes
Snow globes are classic holiday decorations that bring nostalgia and charm to any space. Choose one with a seasonal scene or a personalized option to make it even more special.
53. Mini Christmas Trees
A mini Christmas tree is a festive, space-saving decoration for desks or small spaces. These tiny trees come pre-decorated or with mini ornaments, bringing holiday cheer to their workspace or home.
54. Festive Sweaters
A festive sweater, whether humorous or stylish, is a fun holiday gift that can be worn to office parties or casual gatherings. Choose one that reflects your personality, from quirky designs to traditional holiday patterns.
55. Holiday-Scented Room Sprays
Holiday-scented room sprays bring seasonal scents like cinnamon, pine, or cranberry into any space. It’s a simple yet thoughtful way to spread holiday cheer and make any room festive and inviting.
56. Gift Cards to Their Favorite Coffee Shop
Everyone loves a good cup of coffee (or tea), and a gift card to a local café or their favorite coffee chain is a thoughtful way to treat them to something they’ll use.
57. Coloring Books
A typical office day involves ample stress, work, and frustration. Sometimes, a person needs to click on rewind mode, bring out their inner child, and be themselves. Coloring books are an excellent option for that.
58. French Press
A French press is a perfect gift to give someone some fancy coffee gear to make fancy coffee. It looks classy. It sounds classy. Also, it has the word “french” in it. Apart from being fancy, it is fuss-free too. Easy, time-saving, no perfection in pouring technique required- what else does one need? Hands down, the French press makes it to the top of the list of gifts.
59. Essential Oils
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and nothing screams holiday as giving the gift of scent or essence. Amid a hectic schedule with all of you working tirelessly towards meeting your goals, what could be a better way to release stress than aromatherapy? Diving into the world of essential oils is an incredible experience. Along with pleasant aromas, essential oils provide a myriad of health benefits. Such essential oils can help elevate mood, induce better sleep, and find harmony in life.
60. Wallets
Call it a basic necessity, but wallets are used regularly, making them prone to frequent damage. The universal attribute binding us all is having a worn-down wallet. Gifting a wallet is the classic, quintessential gift.
61. Ugly Christmas Sweaters
As the lyrics of the song "Ugly Christmas Sweater" go, "Put your ugly Christmas sweater on," it’s obvious that ugly Christmas sweaters are the spirit of the holiday season. Everybody wants to have fun during the holidays, and these sweaters are a fun, cheerful tradition that everybody loves. And the bolder, the better.
Go for something over-the-top with a funky pattern one wouldn’t normally wear. The options are endless, and each one seems funnier and uglier than the last. You will cross your coworkers’ minds whenever they see that ugly, fun sweater in their wardrobe.
How to Order Holiday Gifts for Coworkers
Get Your Finances in Order
Get clear about your budget. Understanding your financial limits is essential if your company has a set amount or you must propose one. Research typical spending in your industry if there's no preset budget. This step is where it all begins; it shapes your entire gifting strategy.
Count Your People
Figure out how many gifts you need. Start with your immediate team, but don’t overlook remote colleagues, new hires, or clients. It’s smart to order a few extras for any last-minute surprises.
Find the Right Gift Partner
Choosing the right vendor can make or break your gifting experience. Look for companies with good reputations, customization options, and reliable delivery. Compare them on price and flexibility. This is where you ensure your gifts reflect your intentions, not just your budget.
Give Yourself Time
Order early to avoid panic. Production and shipping can take time, especially if you’re customizing gifts. Start planning now to ensure everything arrives on time, without the stress.
Make It Personal
Personal touches make a big difference. Consider adding your coworkers’ names or choosing gifts that reflect your team’s culture. This is your chance to show you’ve put thought into your gifts, not just money.
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Coworker Gift Ideas No One Wants
Gifts They’ll Want
Picking the right gift for coworkers can feel like walking on eggshells. Nobody wants to be the person giving a gift that ends up in a donation bin. If you’re stumped, think about gifts that are useful and thoughtful.
Skip the diet plans and cufflinks; those are too personal or outdated. Instead, consider something like a high-quality notebook or a nice pen set. These are practical yet thoughtful enough to show you care. Another safe bet? A gift card to a local cafe or online store. It’s flexible, and they can pick what they want.
Avoid the Duds
There are some gifts that you should just never give to a coworker. Bad romance novels and generic aftershave are at the top of the list. These gifts are too personal or just plain boring. Clothing is another big no-no.
Most people don’t want someone else picking clothes for them. If you’re unsure if a gift will be well-received, it’s better to play it safe. Remember, the thought counts, but a little effort can go a long way to ensure your gift is appreciated.
What to Do with Unwanted Gifts
What happens when you get a gift you don’t want? Most people will graciously accept it, even if they’re inwardly groaning. Some will fake excitement, while others will show no emotion. If you find yourself in this situation, just smiling and saying thank you is best. After all, the giver probably meant well.
Once clear, you can decide what to do with the gift. Many unwanted gifts end up in donation bins, which is a great way to give them a second life. You can stash them out of sight until you figure out what to do with them.
Make Gift-Giving Easy
If you’re looking for a stress-free way to give people gifts they will like, consider using a client gifting service like Giftpack. They offer a wide range of locally and globally sourced gifts, ensuring personalized gifting is accessible and achievable on a large scale.
Their extremely user-friendly platform makes finding the right gift for anyone on your list easy. Try Giftpack’s client gifting service for free today.
7 Tips For Giving Gifts In The Office
1. Make It Personal: Tailoring Your Gift
Personalization can go a long way when giving gifts in the office. If you choose a travel mug or clothing, consider adding a monogram. It’s a simple touch that shows thoughtfulness and ensures the recipient can keep track of the gift. You might also pick items that align with your coworker's interests. For example, a hoodie featuring their favorite sports team can be a big hit.
2. Fair Play: Equality in Gift Giving
Avoid favoritism by acknowledging all your colleagues equally. If gifting during the holidays, make sure no one feels left out. Adding a heartfelt greeting card can make the gift even more special. It’s a way to express genuine emotion and let the recipient know who sent the present.
3. Team Consultation: Get Input from Your Colleagues
Consult your team when celebrating a coworker’s birthday, promotion, or life event. They might want to contribute to a bigger group gift or offer ideas on what to buy. It’s a way to share the joy and ensure the gift is well-received.
4. Respect Work Boundaries: Stay Professional
Maintain a clear boundary between personal and professional. If unsure about a gift’s appropriateness, talk to a coworker or supervisor. It’s better to double-check than risk crossing a line.
5. Know the Rules: Research Company Norms
Some companies have rules about gift-giving, including limits on the value or who can receive gifts. Familiarize yourself with these policies before you start shopping. Offices might also have unwritten customs about when to give gifts, so ask around if you’re uncertain.
6. Less Can Be More: Consider the Necessity
Sometimes, a card or thoughtful email is all you need. If the occasion is personal, skip the gift and opt for a heartfelt message. It can be more meaningful and appropriate.
7. Private Matters: Give Gifts Individually
Avoid drawing attention by giving gifts privately. Hand the gift to your colleague away from the group or leave it on their desk. This approach helps prevent any perception of favoritism and keeps the focus on the gesture itself.
Choosing a Christmas Gift for Your Boss
Giving Your Boss a Gift This Holiday? Here's How to Do It Right
Gift-giving in the workplace can be tricky, especially for supervisors. You want to show appreciation, but you also want to respect professional boundaries. The first thing to do is check your company's gift-giving policy. Some workplaces have strict rules to avoid favoritism, so you'll want to ensure you're not crossing any lines.
Tailor the Gift to Your Manager's Personality
Think about your manager's personality. Are they serious and professional or more laid-back and fun? This can help you decide whether a practical or playful gift is appropriate. For example, a severe manager might appreciate a high-quality pen, while a fun manager might love a quirky desk toy.
Consider Your Relationship with Your Boss
Your relationship with your boss can also guide your gift choice. If you have a close relationship, you may be comfortable giving a more personal gift. If your relationship is strictly professional, stick to something more neutral and appropriate for the workplace.
Align the Gift with Your Manager's Interests
A thoughtful gift shows you know the person you're giving it to. When selecting a gift, consider your manager's hobbies, favorite foods, or other interests. For example, a personalized coffee mug could be a great choice if your manager loves coffee.
Build A Meaningful Employee Recognition Program With Ease with Giftpack's Client Gifting Service
Giftpack is transforming how you approach corporate gifting. Using a custom AI algorithm, it streamlines the entire process and maximizes the impact of each gift. But how does this work for you? Imagine handling a holiday party gift list for your employees. Giftpack takes the pressure off by curating personalized swag box options. You get a user-friendly experience that literally and figuratively delivers to your team and your business.
The Art of Personalization
Giftpack doesn’t just send generic gifts. It uses advanced AI to dive into the details:
• Demographics
• Preferences
• Social media activity
It’s not about being creepy but understanding what makes people tick. Whether you’re gifting employees, VIP clients, or even close friends and family, Giftpack ensures that each selection feels personal and thoughtful.
Global Reach, Local Touch
Giftpack offers a vast catalog with over 3.5 million products worldwide. This means you get a wide range of locally and globally sourced gifts. Why does this matter? It allows you to connect meaningfully, regardless of where your recipient is. Imagine sending a gift to an employee in Tokyo that feels just as special as one sent to a client in New York. Giftpack makes it happen.
Conclusion-Free Zone
Ready to see it in action? Try Giftpack’s client gifting service for free today!
Related Reading
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