When a valued coworker or colleague quits a company, it is common to give them a gift to thank them for their work and wish them well. A thoughtful gift from coworkers can make their last day feel special and give them something to remember them by. If you want to give a coworker the right gift to remember them by, here are some creative ideas for gifts that fit different budgets.
Desk Accessories That Are Unique
A lot of my coworkers spend a lot of time sitting at their desks. Consider giving them a personalised desk gift like a pen holder, business card holder, paperweight, or an inspiring paperweight like a crystal ball that shows their future is bright. Other ideas include a mousepad or coaster with a favourite joke or saying engraved on it. When they set up their new workstation, these useful things will remind them of your team.
Photo gifts with meaning
Digital picture frames come in a variety of sizes that are great for showing off favourite photos and memories from work events, team building activities and holiday parties. Add some pictures and a nice note. Or, have everyone sign a picture mat that goes around a group shot. Make unique bobbleheads with your colleague’s face on them for a more fun approach. These unique picture gifts show what your friendship means to you.
Bags made to order
There are so many fun colours and styles for tote bags that anyone can find one that fits their style. Choose the one that looks like their favourite TV show, sports team, or hobby. Or choose a useful item with their name on it, like a backpack, lunch bag, or tech organiser. Put a few small gifts or gift cards in it to make a full gift set. When they use their unique bag, they will think of your team.
Keychains with Meaning
When it’s time to say goodbye, keychains are great gifts, especially if they have a personal meaning. Choose one that has their initial, their favourite holiday, or where they are going. Small items with shared memories, like ticket stubs or mementos from work successes, can be framed in a shadowbox with a key hook.
Mugs and glasses with funny sayings
Funny mugs, shot glasses, tumblers, and flasks with inside jokes, quotes, or drawings on them make unusual leaving gifts for colleagues that can brighten someone’s day. If they liked taking coffee breaks, a personalised mug is both useful and unique. You can put food, gift cards, or even lottery tickets in it. Add a personalised set of glasses or a flask for their new trips.
High-end leather items
Leather portfolios, wallets, planners, luggage tags, and work accessories like pen cups give off a classy vibe. Add a nice bottle of wine or spirits in a leather basement case to finish it off. Adding a monogram makes it look more expensive. Leather gets better with age and can be kept as a memento of a job.
Gift Baskets for Self-Care
It’s important to de-stress after work. Make a theme out of rest by putting bath bombs, candles, essential oils, cosy socks, herbal tea, and chocolate in a basket or box with a pretty design. Include a gift card for a massage or a manicure to help them stay on top of their own self-care. Wellness helps keep the feelings of change in check.
Home decorations with meaning
Putting a coworker’s name and the times they worked there on ornaments, vases, wall prints, and other home decorations makes for a heartfelt memento. Get them a housewarming plaque with their new last name if they’re getting married, or a picture of their new city if they’re moving. These gifts show that their coworkers will always be a part of their lives.
No matter how much money you have, when choosing a farewell gift for a friend, keep their hobbies and interests in mind. Pair it with a thoughtful card that says what you’ll miss most about them. The act shows them how much you care and strengthens your relationship as you send them off to new adventures.