43 Best Employee Appreciation Gift Ideas
Need some inspiration for employee appreciation gift ideas? We got you covered.
In a world where workplace dynamics are evolving at an unprecedented pace, one timeless truth remains: appreciating your employees is the cornerstone of a thriving and harmonious work environment.
A survey by OnePoll found that 46% of employees in the U.S. left a job because they felt unappreciated. 65% of respondents have also stated that they would work harder if their contributions were acknowledged by management.
Similarly, a study conducted in 2023 identified personal recognition as the primary motivator for employees to enhance their work performance, garnering 37% of the respondents’ votes. It also found that employee appreciation is linked to higher workplace satisfaction, and in turn, happiness.
It’s clear that recognizing and appreciating your employees is a crucial aspect of sustaining high employee morale. Such gestures are key to building a strong and committed team. With that in mind, let’s dive into our curated list of the 43 best employee appreciation gift ideas, to create lasting impressions that resonate with the hardworking individuals who contribute to the success of your team.
Unique Employee Appreciation Gift Ideas
Set your organization apart – add an element of surprise and delight with these unique employee appreciation gifts!
Gift Cards:
Who says practical can’t be personal? Gift cards can be tailored to fit various budget constraints, making them suitable for both small and large-scale employee appreciation efforts. With Toasty, you can give your employees personalized gift cards, as well as the freedom to select the brand of their choice. Whether it’s a favorite restaurant, a spa experience, or an online shopping spree, its versatility embraces everyone’s unique tastes. With Toasty, you’re not just giving a gift card – you’re handing out a world of choices!
Empower Your Team Members With The Toasty Choice Card.
Simply set the reward amount, and let your employees choose from 300+ brands including Amazon, Starbucks, Target, and more.
Spa Day Vouchers:
Want to give your employees a break from the grind? Spa day vouchers are a luxurious and thoughtful gift that promotes relaxation and self-care. In the fast-paced world of work, a spa day offers employees the chance to unwind, rejuvenate, and indulge in a pampering experience. Encourage a healthy work-life balance with one of the more unique employee appreciation gifts!
Charitable Donations:
Making a charitable donation in the name of an employee is a unique way to express appreciation while contributing to a cause close to their heart, making it one of the most meaningful employee appreciation gift ideas. It reflects corporate social responsibility and can instill a sense of pride among employees. Talk about a gift that keeps on giving!
Wine or Craft Beer:
Cheers to your amazing team! Wine or craft beer isn’t just a gift – it’s an experience full of memories and laughter among colleagues. Whether it’s a smooth red or a hoppy ale, these unique employee appreciation gifts are perfect for celebrating milestones or just unwinding after a long week. So, raise a glass to friendship and good times!
Adventure Gear:
For the thrill-seekers and nature lovers in your team, adventure gear is the way to go. From camping essentials to hiking must-haves, these gifts are a nod to their adventurous spirits. Encouraging employees to explore their passions beyond the office, this gear isn’t just functional – it’s a ticket to new journeys. It’s a celebration of individuality and the pursuit of excitement!
Remote Employee Appreciation Gift Ideas
When selecting the best gifts for remote workers, the following options stood out for their ability to address the unique challenges and opportunities presented by remote work.
Online Learning Subscriptions:
Online learning subscriptions are like opening a door to a world of knowledge. Perfect for those with ever-changing remote schedules, these gems offer a chance for your team to level up their skills or dive into new interests. Talk about a win-win – they grow, and so does their contribution to your company. The gift of learning? Priceless.
Virtual Comedy Shows:
Sprinkle some fun into the work day. Virtual comedy shows makes the list as one of the best gifts for remote workers. It’s more than just jokes – it’s about creating a shared, joyous experience that can bring your team closer, even if they’re miles apart. Laughter really is the best medicine!
Home Office Upgrades:
Upgrade alert! Transforming home offices into productivity havens is the way to go. Ergonomic chairs, soothing lighting, noise-canceling headphones – these aren’t just gifts, they’re game-changers. It shows an understanding of the unique challenges they face and a commitment to their well-being, making them one of the best employee appreciation gift ideas.
Fitness Gear:
Turn that living room into a personal gym! With remote work comes the dreaded “chair marathon,” but fitness gear like resistance bands and yoga mats are here to save the day. It’s a nudge to your team members towards a healthier lifestyle. Who’s ready for a workout?
Digital Fitness Memberships:
Similar to fitness gear, digital fitness memberships bring the gym experience to the home. They are the best gifts for remote workers who are keen on maintaining a their health. Combat the sedentary lifestyle and keep the team energized and healthy with these memberships, which offer a variety of workout classes online!
Subscription Boxes:
Who doesn’t love surprises? Subscription boxes are like monthly treasure chests, tailored to each person’s likes. From gourmet snacks to self-care products, these curated boxes provide a monthly treat, lifting spirits and enriching the connection between the employee and the company.
Virtual Escape Room Games:
Team bonding, but make it thrilling. Virtual escape room games are a great way to engage remote teams in a fun, collaborative challenge. As team-building activities, they create shared memories and strengthen the friendship among employees who may be physically distant. Ready, set, escape!
Online Shopping Discounts:
Providing online shopping discounts is a practical and versatile employee appreciation gift. It allows them to choose items they need or desire, whether for work or personal use. This customizable gift ensures that remote workers can enjoy the flexibility of selecting products that enhance their home or work life.
Remote Team-Building Activities:
Remote team-building activities facilitate social interaction and collaboration among team members. These interactive experiences promote teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills. They create shared memories and strengthen the bond among team members who may be physically distant.
Online Skill Workshops:
Online skill workshops provide an avenue for continuous learning and professional development. As one of the more empowering employee appreciation gift ideas, these workshops motivate individuals to acquire new skills and advance their careers. The gift demonstrates a commitment to the growth and success of those working remotely.
Employee Appreciation Gift Ideas for Christmas
These employee appreciation gift ideas for Christmas will infuse the holiday season with joy and celebration. Whether providing a daily indulgence or encouraging shared experiences, each gift reflects the spirit of the festive season and demonstrates appreciation for your hard working team members.
Coffee Subscription:
Wake up and smell the coffee! A coffee subscription is an excellent Christmas gift as it caters to a universal daily ritual. High-quality beans? Check. Luxurious mornings? Double-check. Allow your employees to kickstart their mornings on a high note. It showcases thoughtfulness, acknowledging the importance of a good cup of coffee in enhancing productivity and bringing joy to their routines.
Virtual Cooking Classes:
Virtual cooking classes are the perfect blend of fun and festivity, making them a sizzling Christmas gift. Employees can explore new culinary skills from the comfort of their homes, creating a sense of celebration and togetherness. Plus, imagine all the delicious dishes they could showcase at holiday parties!
Gourmet Food Baskets:
Gourmet food baskets are a classic Christmas gift that exudes indulgence and celebration, making them one of the most delightful employee appreciation gift ideas. Filled with a variety of delicious treats, these baskets reflect a desire to add a touch of luxury and festivity to the holiday season for employees and their families.
Personalized Tumblers:
Cheers to a gift that’s both personal and practical! Personalized tumblers are a stylish way for your employees to sip their favorite drinks. These aren’t just tumblers – they’re daily reminders of your appreciation, decked out with a personal touch. Surprise your team members with a memorable and cherished item during the holiday season!
Indoor Plants:
Indoor plants are the best Christmas gift for employees who enjoy a touch of nature in their workspace. They not only contribute to the aesthetics of the environment, but also promote well-being. During the holiday season, a vibrant indoor plant serves as a symbol of growth and renewal, aligning with the spirit of the festivities.
Board Games:
Monopoly? Catan? Scrabble? Perfect for enlightening the mood during the Christmas season, boards games rightfully hold their place among the top employee appreciation gift ideas. Whether played with family or friends, they encourage social interaction and provide entertainment for holiday gatherings. This gift reflects a commitment to creating joyful moments and strengthening bonds among employees and their loved ones.
Book Club Subscription:
Turn the page to a world of adventure! A book club subscription is the best Christmas gift for employees who are avid readers. It is a gift that keeps on giving, offering employees the joy of literary exploration and intellectual engagement. This gift is a thoughtful way to encourage a culture of continuous learning and shared interests within the team.
Aromatherapy Sets:
Bring a touch of relaxation and tranquility to the holiday season. Aromatherapy sets are the best Christmas gift for employees who wish to immerse in a sensory experience to unwind and de-stress. Lavender. Eucalyptus. Rosemary. Each unique scent can evoke a different ambiance, transforming their surroundings to a peaceful oasis!
Personalized Calendars:
Personalized calendars are practical and festive employee appreciation gift ideas that help team members stay organized in the coming year. Featuring personalized touches such as photos or custom messages, these calendars add a sentimental element to the gift. They serve as a constant reminder of appreciation and thoughtfulness throughout the entire year. Let’s make every day count!
Employee Appreciation Gift Ideas for New Years
These New Year gifts for employees symbolize fresh starts, personal growth, and well-being. Whether through innovative tech gadgets, personalized items, or opportunities for self-improvement, each gift contributes to an uplifting start to the year.
Tech Gadgets:
As the New Year brings with it a sense of innovation and fresh starts, tech gadgets rank among the best New Year gifts for employees. Whether it’s the latest headphones, smart devices, or innovative accessories, these gifts embody the spirit of embracing new technologies and staying connected. They also demonstrate an understanding of the modern work landscape and a commitment to enhancing the employee’s efficiency and enjoyment. Ring in the New Year with the latest and greatest in tech!
Desk Decor:
Desk decor is more than just eye candy – it’s a fresh start in style! Items like stylish organizers, decorative desk accessories, or inspirational decor are excellent employee appreciation gift ideas. They contribute to a positive and motivational work environment. This gift shows attention to the employee’s personal space and a desire to create a productive and uplifting atmosphere.
Home Comforts:
Home is where the heart is, and comfort is the key. As the New Year unfolds, providing employees with home comforts is a gesture that signifies care and consideration. This could include cozy blankets, comfortable pillows, or other items that enhance the comfort of their home. It’s about making their personal space a little more snug and a lot more special.
Personalized Wall Art:
Offering customized wall art is among the more unique employee appreciation gifts, adding a personal touch to the employee’s workspace. Whether it’s custom artwork, motivational quotes, or personalized family photos, these pieces tell your employees they’re valued and unique. Let’s turn those walls into galleries of appreciation!
Flexible Time Off:
Emphasizing work-life balance, flexible time off is rapidly becoming one of the most valued gifts for the New Year. This gift empowers employees to prioritize their well-being and personal commitments, setting a positive tone for the year ahead. It reflects a commitment to the health and happiness of the workforce.
Cooking Appliance:
Is there a chef in the house? Cooking appliances are gifts that align with resolutions related to healthy living and culinary exploration. Whether it’s a kitchen gadget, a blender, or a multicooker, it’s an invitation to explore new recipes and flavors. Let’s cook up some joy!
Language Learning:
Parlez-vous Français? Hablas Español? Language learning tools open doors to a world of opportunities. These gifts align with the theme of personal development and growth for the New Year, encouraging employees to enhance their skill set. It demonstrates an investment in the individual’s continuous learning and personal enrichment.
DIY employee appreciation gifts:
Demonstrate true care and appreciation with DIY gifts – be it for art, crafts, or home projects. Check out our list of the best DIY gifts of 2024 for some inspiration. Let’s get those creative juices flowing!
online shopping allowance:
Providing employees with an online shopping allowance as a New Year’s gift offers the freedom to choose items that bring joy and satisfaction. It allows them to treat themselves to something special, making it one if the best New Year gifts for employees. Ready, set, shop!
Best Work Anniversary Gifts for Employees
These work anniversary gifts are chosen for their ability to celebrate the employee’s dedication and acknowledge their individuality. Whether through personalized items or professional development opportunities, each gift reflects the company’s appreciation for the employee’s continued commitment and contributions.
Customized Desk Accessories:
Celebrate work anniversaries with a flair! Such occasions call for gifts that reflect longevity and appreciation. Customized desk accessories, such as personalized organizers, nameplates, or unique office decor, are excellent employee appreciation gift ideas. They serve as a daily reminder of the value they bring to the workplace.
Weekend getaway package:
Talk about wanderlust! A weekend getaway package is the ultimate “thank you” escape. It’s a chance for your employee to unwind, explore, and create new memories. Picture them lounging on a beach or hiking in the mountains – it’s not just a getaway; it’s a grand gesture of appreciation. Ready, set, relax!
Personalized Notebooks:
Personalized notebooks are classic and versatile work anniversary gifts. Whether used for professional notes or personal reflections, these notebooks add a touch of individuality to the employee’s routine. The customization reflects a celebration of the employee’s unique journey within the organization. It’s not just a notebook; it’s a companion for their ideas and dreams.
Mindfulness Kits:
Breathe in appreciation, breathe out stress! Mindfulness kits rank among the top employee appreciation gift ideas. This thoughtful gift encourages a healthy work-life balance and reflects the company’s appreciation for the individual. Consider items like meditation cushions, calming teas, and stress-relief tools.
Box of chocolates:
Sweeten the deal with one of the most timeless and delightful work anniversary gifts – a classic box of chocolates! It’s a simple, yet universally loved treat that brings a moment of indulgence and happiness. Who doesn’t love a little chocolate cheer?
Subscription Magazines:
Subscription magazines are a gift that keeps giving throughout the year. They offer a window to the world, tailored to your employee’s interests. From current events to hobbies, these magazines are a thoughtful way to encourage continuous learning and leisure.
Tech Workshops:
Tech workshops stand out as one of the top-tier employee gifts, offering a valuable opportunity for skill development and professional growth. As a celebration of the employee’s journey, these workshops provide the chance to stay updated on the latest technologies and trends. It positions the organization as one that invests in its workforce.
Theme party:
Let’s get the party started! A theme party for a work anniversary is like a blockbuster celebration. It’s a fun, creative way to mark the occasion and show your employee they’re a valued member of the team. Whether it’s a roaring ’20s gala or a superhero showdown, it’s an unforgettable way to say, “Thanks for being awesome!”
Virtual Concert Tickets:
Turn up the volume on appreciation! Unique and enjoyable, virtual concert tickets are among the more memorable gifts. It provides an escape into a world of music and fun, all from the comfort of home. It’s an exhilarating experience that acknowledges the individual’s contributions and adds a touch of entertainment to their celebration.
LinkedIn shoutout:
Give praise where it’s due – on the professional stage of LinkedIn. A shoutout on this platform is a public pat on the back, boosting your employee’s professional profile. You can also show your support by endorsing their skills, fostering a sense of pride and satisfaction. This digital applause is a modern twist on recognition, making it a standout among work anniversary gifts!
Toasty: Empower Your Team Members with the Gift of Choice
Did we provide you with enough employee appreciation gift ideas? Or are you now overwhelmed with the number of options? We have a solution for you. Allow your employees to choose their own reward with the Toasty Choice Card. Simply decide on the amount you wish to send, and let your employees dive into 300+ gift cards to choose from including Amazon, Apple, Visa, and more.
Toasty also allows you to personalize the gift card with your company logo and a custom message to show your appreciation. Choose from a wide selection of pre-made designs in our intuitive self-serve portal. Our platform is completely free to use – you only pay for the value of the gift cards! Get started today with Toasty.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Employee Gift Giving
the do’s:
- Know Your Audience: Understand your team members’ preferences and interests when considering gifts. It’s about hitting that sweet spot between what they love and what they need. Culture, hobbies, lifestyle – it all matters!
- Be Inclusive: Inclusivity is key – no one should feel left out because of their background or beliefs. It’s all about celebrating diversity in your team. Make sure every member feels valued!
- Show Genuine Appreciation: Attach a personalized note expressing your gratitude and acknowledging specific contributions. A heartfelt message can turn a simple gift into a treasure.
- Be Mindful of Timing: Timing is everything. Birthdays, work anniversaries, holidays – these are golden opportunities to show you care. The right gift at the right time can make all the difference.
The don’ts:
- Avoid Controversial or Sensitive Items: Steer clear of anything that could raise eyebrows – items that may be culturally insensitive, politically charged, or have potential to offend. This includes items such as religious symbols or politically themed gifts. Play it safe, and keep it universally enjoyable!
- Don’t Forget Recognition: Make sure your gift comes with a hearty dose of recognition. Ensure that your gift is part of a broader acknowledgment of the employee’s efforts. Make recognition the main course, not a side dish!
- Don’t Overemphasize Monetary Value: While it’s important to set a budget, don’t place too much emphasis on the monetary value of the gift. The most cherished gifts often aren’t the priciest. It’s the thought, creativity, and relevance that count.
- Don’t Disregard Company Policies: Be aware of and adhere to any company policies regarding gift-giving. Some organizations may have guidelines or restrictions in place to maintain fairness and transparency.
