Cool Gifts for Coworkers that Don't Feel Like Corporate Gifts
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Corporate gifts: they’re often creative, sometimes useful, and generally, disappointing. Now, I know how that makes me sound. When we get gifts, we should be grateful, right?
Sure, of course. But I would argue that people don’t want impersonal gifts from companies. In fact, people may generally be happier giving their money to someone else rather than receiving something they don’t really need. Perhaps this is because gifts are more meaningful when they’re personal, and corporate gifts generally aren’t.
In fact, some companies give just plain weird gifts. I know one person who received frozen food, someone else, animal decor. At one non food-related company, I got an apron and an oven mitt for Christmas (which granted, I did use).
These gifts would’ve been a lot more impactful if they’d had anything to do with the employees or their jobs, though. In other words, gifts should feel thoughtful rather than feeling like an afterthought.
So, today we’re offering gift ideas that can easily be personalized and utilized.
Cool gift ideas for coworkers
Gift baskets and water bottles are nice, but let’s talk about those presents that will set you apart.
Gift an experience
A gift card to a local theater or movie theater
Tickets to a show
A gift card to a nice restaurant
A paid pass for a local tour
A class (e.g. a pasta-making class)
Necessity gift ideas
Nice office items (e.g. good quality pens, personalized notepads, planners, etc.)
A meal kit subscription
Comfort gift ideas
A bath set (e.g. bath bombs, epsom salts, handmade soap, etc.)
A gift card to a local cafe
Splurge gift ideas for managers giving to employees
Airline miles
An Amazon Kindle (Here’s my favorite)
Themed gift boxes with assorted gifts
Movie night box: popcorn kernels, popcorn maker, candy, movie projector, etc.
Wine night box: Wine glasses, aerator, cork screw, etc.
Charcuterie box: Cutting board, cheese knives, olive oil, jam, etc.
Travel box: YETI, gas card, first aid kit, fire starter, etc.
Causes you can give to in lieu of corporate gifts:
Above, we mentioned that giving can often provide more happiness than receiving. If you fall in this camp or know someone who does, please consider these charities or one of your own favorites.
Local food banks
Local food banks are a great way to give back to your community, either through financial contributions, in-kind donations, or time. Below we’ve listed Meals on Wheels, which will allow you to find your local branch, and we’ve also included some food banks in our communities.
Meals on Wheels (USA)
Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle TN (Nashville, TN)
Dare to Care Food Bank (Louisville, KY)
Kentucky Veterans Brigade (Bowling Green, KY)
Local animal shelters
Animal shelters are some of the most versatile charities, providing opportunities to foster, donate, and volunteer. Many shelters even take gently used items, such as blankets and towels.
The Humane Society (USA)
Nashville Humane Association (Nashville, TN)
Wags & Walks (Los Angeles, CA & Nashville, TN)
Kentucky Humane Society (Louisville, KY)
Warren County Humane Society (Bowling Green, KY)
Groups that need your help
International Justice Mission (Combatting human trafficking on a global scale)
Polaris Project (Combatting human trafficking in North America)
Stop AAPI Hate (USA)
Color of Change (USA)
NAACP (USA)
The Trevor Project (Serving LGBTQ+ youth internationally - We list more LGBTQ+ groups to donate to in this post)
Conclusion
When it comes to corporate gifts, the most thoughtful presents are the ones that show you know about your colleagues.
Whether you choose to gift something small, something expensive, or you choose to serve a bigger purpose altogether, you can go the extra mile. Make your gifts personal to coworkers by choosing something that speaks to them directly. Happy gifting!
