7 Small Gifts for Work Colleagues To Show Your Appreciation
Work can be tough. Day in and day out, you deal with deadlines, projects, meetings, and more. And if you add toxic workplace relationships to the mix, it can all become too much.
Thankfully, every once in a while, we’re fortunate enough to have colleagues or employees that make our jobs just a little bit better. They could be the one who always has your back, or maybe they’re just really good at their job.
If you have a colleague you appreciate, why not show it with a small (Corporate Gifts Wholesale) gift? It doesn’t have to be anything big or expensive, but something to let them know that you’re thinking of them.
Here are some small gifts for work colleagues that are sure to put a smile on their faces:
1. A Nice Notebook or Planner
Who doesn’t love a new notebook or planner? This is a great gift idea if your colleague is always jotting down notes or making to-do lists. You can even personalize it by having their name engraved on the cover.
Apex Gifts and Prints, in particular, have affordable and customizable planners! So you can have your colleague’s name printed on the front, along with a special message on the inside.
What you should look for:
When choosing a notebook or planner, make sure it’s something that your colleague will actually use. If they prefer to take digital notes, then a physical notebook is not the best idea. You can also check if they have any specific preferences when it comes to design or layout.
2. A Personalized Mug
Most offices have the standard-issue coffee mug that everyone uses. But if you want to make your colleague’s coffee break a little more special, why not get them a personalized mug? You can personalize any number of ways, from adding their name to a funny inside joke.
If you need help figuring out where to start, try looking for a mug with a quote that describes your colleague perfectly. Something like, “I survived another meeting that should have been an email,” would be perfect for that colleague who’s always attending (and complaining about) pointless meetings.
It’s about finding the right mug that suits your colleague’s personality. Once you have that, personalizing it will be a breeze!
What you should look for:
When choosing a mug, make sure it’s made of high-quality materials. You want your colleague’s new mug to stay intact after a few washes.
Also, consider the size and capacity. A travel mug is a great option if they’re always on the go. Check out Apex Gifts and Prints for a wide selection of mugs you can personalize to your heart’s content!
3. A Pen Set
Pens are another office essential that everyone can use. And if you know your colleague loves stationery as much as you do or signs many documents, then a nice pen set would make an excellent gift.
All sorts of pen sets are available, from basic ballpoint pens to more luxurious fountain pens. You can even find sets that come with a pencil and mechanical pencil for those who prefer to sketch or take notes in a different way.
What you should look for:
Depending on your budget, you can choose a simple ballpoint pen set or something more high-end. If you know your colleague is particular about the type of pen they use, then make sure to get a set that includes their preferred type.
4. A Gift Card to a Spa or Massage Place
Working can be stressful, so a gift card to a spa or massage place would be much appreciated by any colleague! Even if they can’t use it right away, it’s a nice gesture to know that they can treat themselves when they need it.
When picking a spa or massage place, remember to choose one close to their office or home. You don’t want them to have to travel too far just to use the gift card. Also, pick one with good reviews, so you know they’ll be in good hands.
5. A gift card to their favorite coffee shop
Who doesn’t love coffee? If your colleague is always talking about how much they love their daily cup of joe, then a gift card to their favorite coffee shop would be a great idea!
This way, they can treat themselves to their favorite coffee or even pastries without spending any money. Just make sure you know which coffee shop they frequent the most, so you can get them a card that they can easily use.
6. Subscription boxes
Few things are as exciting as receiving a package in the mail, especially when it’s filled with goodies! A subscription box would be perfect if your colleague loves trying new things or receiving surprise gifts. Here are some subscription box ideas that would make great gifts:
Beauty boxes
If your colleague is into beauty and skincare, a beauty box subscription would be a great gift! They’ll get to try new products every month and maybe even find some new favorite items.
PopSugar Must Have is a popular beauty box that includes everything from makeup to skincare to lifestyle items. Boxes start at $39.99 per month, but discounts are often available.
Target also has a beauty box subscription that’s only $7 per month (plus free shipping!). The box’s contents vary monthly, but it always includes at least five deluxe-sized beauty samples.
Snack boxes
For the colleague who loves food (and who doesn’t?), a snack box subscription would be a delicious gift! They’ll get to try all sorts of new snacks, from sweet to savory and everything in between.
Love with Food is a popular snack box subscription that starts at $9.99 per month. For every box purchased, a meal is donated to feed hungry children in the US.
They also have a deluxe box option for $19.99 per month, which includes more premium snacks.
BarkBox
Is your colleague a dog-lover? Then they’ll love BarkBox, a monthly subscription box for dogs! Each box includes treats, toys, and other goodies that your colleague’s furry friend will surely enjoy.
Prices start at $29 per month, but discounts are often available. For example, you can currently get a free extra month added on to any 6- or 12-month subscription.
7. A succulent
Are you looking for something your colleague can look at and take care of daily? Then a succulent would be a great gift! Succulents are easy to care for, so they’re perfect for busy people. Plus, they add a touch of life and color to any space.
When picking a succulent, make sure to choose one that’s appropriate for the amount of sunlight in your colleague’s office or home. You don’t want them to end up with a plant that’s not getting enough light and starts to die.
Lula’s Garden is a great place to buy succulents online. They have a wide selection of plants that are healthy and guaranteed to arrive alive. Prices range from $4.50 to $32, depending on the type of plant and potting option you choose.
Conclusion
Giving small gifts to your colleagues is a great way to show them that you appreciate them. It doesn’t have to be anything expensive – even something as simple as a coffee mug or a succulent can make a big difference.
So next time you’re looking for a way to say “thank you” or “I appreciate you,” consider giving one of these small gifts!
Plus, studies have shown that employees who feel valued and appreciated are more likely to be engaged and productive. From showing appreciation through Company Gifts to implementing flexible policies, here are 10 tips on how to create a positive work environment:
1. Establish clear expectations for employees
Do you know how frustrating it is to be unsure of what’s expected of you? It can be even more frustrating at work. Imagine how your employees feel when they don’t know what’s expected.
That’s why it’s important to establish clear expectations for employees from the very beginning. When everyone is on the same page, it’ll be easier to work towards common goals and avoid misunderstandings.
How can you establish clear expectations?
- Write down the expectations in a clear and concise manner
- Communicate the expectations to employees regularly
- Make sure that everyone understands the expectations
2. Encourage and reward positive behavior.
Few things are more motivating than feeling appreciated for a job well done. When you encourage and reward positive behavior, it makes employees feel good and encourages them to continue behaving positively.
How can you encourage and reward positive behavior?
You can encourage and reward positive behavior by praising their hard work, giving bonus points, or offering small rewards like corporate gifts from Apex Gifts and Prints.
You can also implement a recognition program where employees are nominated and voted for by their peers. This is a great way to show how much you appreciate their efforts and contribution to the company.
3. Communicate openly and honestly
If you want to know how to create a positive work environment, you have to practice transparent and honest communication. When employees feel like they’re in the loop will be more engaged and motivated to do their best.
Take the time to update employees on both good and bad company developments. This way, they’ll feel like they’re part of the team and that their opinions matter.
This also goes for feedback. Give employees constructive feedback that they can use to improve their performance. When employees feel like they’re constantly improving, it’ll be easier for them to stay positive and motivated at work will be easier.
4. Promote a healthy work-life balance
Nowadays, a toxic and highly stressful work environment is the norm. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
You can promote a healthy work-life balance by implementing flexible work policies, encouraging employees to take vacation days, and being understanding when they need to take time off.
When employees feel like they have a good work-life balance will be less stressed and more productive. It’s a win-win for everyone!
5. Encourage employee input
One of the worst things you can do in the workplace is to shut down employees’ ideas and suggestions. This will only lead to frustration and resentment.
Instead, encourage employee input by setting up an open-door policy, conducting regular surveys, or holding brainstorming sessions. When employees feel like their opinions are valued, they’ll be more engaged and motivated to do their best.
The most important thing is to make sure you act on the suggestions and feedback you receive. This will show employees that their input is truly valued and appreciated.
6. Promote a team-oriented environment
A highly competitive and individualistic environment is one of the quickest ways to kill employee morale. When everyone is focused on themselves, it’s hard to build a positive and cohesive team. in fact, this is one of the biggest reasons toxic workplaces exist.
Instead, promote a team-oriented environment where employees are encouraged to work together and help each other out.
How do you promote a team-oriented environment?
There are a few ways you can promote a team-oriented environment, such as:
- Encouraging employees to work on projects together
- Creating opportunities for employees to socialize and bond with each other
- Recognizing and rewarding team efforts
7. Address problems and disputes promptly
Despite your best efforts, there will be times when problems and disputes arise in the workplace. It’s important that you address these issues promptly and effectively. Ignoring problems will only worsen them and lead to a negative work environment.
How do you deal with problems and disputes?
The first step is to try to resolve the issue informally. This can be done by talking to the employees involved and getting their side of the story. If the problem persists, you can then take formal action by following your company’s disciplinary procedures.
Avoid taking sides in the dispute and try to remain objective. The goal is to find a resolution that is fair for everyone involved.
8. Celebrate successes together as a team
Everyone, whether they’re introverts or extroverts, appreciates being recognized for their accomplishments. When you take the time to celebrate successes together as a team, it shows employees that their hard work is appreciated.
But don’t just single out individual employees for recognition. Make sure you also celebrate team successes.
How do you celebrate success?
There are a few different ways you can celebrate success, such as:
- Throwing a party or going out for drinks
- Giving employees paid time off
- Giving employees bonuses or raises
- Recognizing employees in company-wide emails or announcements
9. Help employees develop their skills and abilities
A dead-end job is one of the quickest ways to kill employee morale. When employees feel like they’re stuck in a rut, they’ll lose motivation and engagement, creating a negative work environment.
Instead, help employees develop their skills and abilities to grow in their careers. This can be done by providing training and development opportunities, such as workshops, e-learning courses, or mentorship programs.
Depending on your budget, you can also offer employees tuition reimbursement for external courses and programs. This is a great way to invest in your employees and help them reach their full potential.
When you invest in employee development, you’re not only helping individuals grow in their careers. You’re also making your company stronger and more competitive.
10. Respect your employees’ time and commitments outside of work
Last, but most importantly, is to respect your employees’ time and commitments outside of work. Don’t expect employees to work long hours or weekends unless it’s absolutely necessary. Avoid contacting them outside of work hours unless it’s an emergency.
Respecting your employees’ time will show them that you value their work-life balance. This is important because when employees feel like they have a good work-life balance, they’re more likely to feel happy to come to work.
And if you do need employees to work extra hours, compensate them fairly for their time. This includes financial compensation and non-monetary recognition, such as flexible scheduling or additional paid time off.
Conclusion
Creating a positive work environment is essential for any business. It’s important to remember that employees are people, not machines. They must feel appreciated, respected, and valued to do their best work.
By following the tips above, you can create a positive work environment that engages and motivates your employees. Good luck!