Gifts for Coworkers - A Few Neutral Ideas

New for 2010: 11 Perfect Gifts for Coworkers

A recent episode of “Mad Men” had a scene where a secretary was collecting money for a baby gift for a coworker. One person signed the card without contributing any cash (a definite no-no in most offices; read the rules of office gifts). Most of us have experienced the baby shower extortion, I mean collection, at work. Personally, I think the workplace is an odd place for a baby shower. But then, I go out of my way to avoid all showers in general.

What if you want to pick up a gift (non-shower related) for a co-worker? It could be acknowledgement of a birthday or maybe just a “thank-you for saving my a--” gift. A few things to consider; you don’t want to look too cheap, it should appear that you put a little thought into it and you want the gift to be appropriate for a coworker-level relationship.

For some reason, I always get candles as gifts from co-workers. It’s a safe bet because most people like candles. What people don’t know is that the scents in most candles give me headaches. And do you give guys candles? Not to be sexist, but most guys I know wouldn’t be very thrilled to get a candle.

So here are some ideas for gifts for coworkers:

 * Gift cards - Yes, I realize these gifts are a little too easy. But it’s a step up from just handing someone some cash. Try restaurants or a big box store.

* A stud-finder - Okay, I’m kidding. I just think they’re really neat and who couldn’t use one? But the predictable double entendre aside, it might be a little weird.

* Picture frame - A simple wood, gold or silver frame is something everyone can use. Don’t go for the fishing or baseball-themed ones though. Even if the recipient is a fan, those are really lame.

* Food - Go beyond the usual donuts/birthday cake bakery stuff. Buy a jar of interesting olives, some snazzy crackers, fancy, spreadable cheese and pop them into a basket. You’ll get lots of credit for originality and points for not going the cookie-bouquet route.

Do you have any ideas for cheap gifts for coworkers?

This is a post by Nancy LaFever. You can read more from her at the Centre for Emotional Wellbeing blog.

Comments

[Jen]

Good ideas. What about something for their kids? Maybe inexpensive tickets to a matinee/drive-in, minor league sports team, art show? There are a lot of things that can be found on Groupon.

[Julie]

Maybe a GC to an Etsy store? I love Etsy and most of my co-workers do, too. Of course most of us are weird.

[Nancy]

Hi Jen:

That's a great idea. People always appreciate thoughtful gifts for the kiddos.

[StephenP]

Movie passes are good as well and if you live in an urban area a gas card to them to the movie...

[shawn]

i would love a stud-finder, but what co-workers really like is for you to buy them lunch.

[Nancy]

Buying lunch is always an excellent idea, Shawn. Food is the universal currency, isn't it?

[Amy]

I love the Groupon and Etsy ideas -- and agree that food is usually a win! Delivered breakfast is also awesome on dreary Monday mornings. Alternately, what about a gift card to a coffee shop? Doesn't have to be for a ton of money, but the thought and the coffee pick-me-up is nice. Fresh goods from the local farmer's market or a bag of their fave candy for the non-health conscious could be appreciated as well. If they're into philanthropy, you could donate something on their behalf to their favorite charity.

[Erica]

good ideas you have given, i will add a pen of a different design or a book if that person loves to read books. What to gift really depends on the persons choice and your budget.

[GroVia]

Giving gifts are the way to show your gratitude.

[CG]

I think this is one of the best idea because no one can think about it. All people will like this...

[corporate hampers]

Great ideas. Personally I would prefer useful gifts such as bedroom slippers and kitchen utensils. But they have to be of fine quality of course. And good looking to boot.

[Nancy]

I'm with you on those, corporate hampers. Heinkel knives are nice!

[isj]

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