40 Easy Gift Ideas for Coworkers That Show You Care
Thoughtful, Simple, and Budget-Friendly Gifts They’ll Actually Like
I’ve always found it tricky to shop for coworkers. I want to give something thoughtful, but I don’t want it to feel too personal.
It needs to be useful, but also a little fun. And most importantly, it should feel genuine. Whether it's for the holidays, a birthday, a thank-you, or just a small gesture to brighten someone’s day, I’ve tried a lot of different gift ideas over the years.
Here are my go-to coworker gift ideas. These are things I’ve either given, received, or seen others enjoy. Most are budget-friendly, and many work for both in-office teams and remote coworkers.
1. A Nice Notebook
It’s simple, but it works. A clean, sturdy notebook always feels fresh. People use them for meetings, ideas, to-do lists, or even journaling. I usually go for ones with a soft cover and thick pages.
Bonus points if it comes in a pretty color or has a little motivational quote on the front.
You can find good ones at office supply stores or even online. If your coworker likes minimal style, stick to black or white. If they enjoy color, choose something fun and bright.
2. A Cute Desk Plant
Plants brighten up a workspace. They’re quiet, low-maintenance, and somehow make things feel more peaceful. I’ve given tiny succulents, small potted cacti, and even air plants. They don’t take up much space and don’t need a lot of care.
You can put them in a fun pot or even a little glass jar. Just make sure it’s something that won’t spill easily. I’ve found that coworkers love this gift, especially if they don’t already have plants on their desk.
3. Fun Pens or Markers
Some people don’t care about pens. But others get excited over smooth ink or colors that pop. I like giving coworkers a small pack of gel pens or fine-tip markers. It’s useful but also kind of fun.
I sometimes tie them together with a ribbon and pair them with a notebook. It turns into a little gift set without much effort. Great for coworkers who enjoy writing, journaling, or color-coding things.
4. Coffee or Tea Sampler
Most people enjoy a warm drink at their desk. I’ve gifted coffee sampler packs or tea collections many times. Look for small boxes with a mix of flavors. That way, they can try new things without committing to a big pack.
Some brands also sell cute little tins with a few tea bags or ground coffee. It’s easy to wrap and doesn’t cost much. I try to choose blends that smell nice, too.
5. A Nice Mug
Pair that tea or coffee sampler with a good mug. I like giving mugs that are simple but special. Something with a quote, a nice pattern, or a soft color. Avoid ones with strong jokes or messages unless you know the person’s sense of humor really well.
Insulated mugs are a good option too. They keep drinks hot longer and are great for coworkers who get busy and forget their coffee.
6. A Scented Candle
Candles work well for remote coworkers or those who like cozy things. I usually choose calming scents like lavender, vanilla, or eucalyptus. Avoid anything too strong or spicy unless you know their taste.
A small candle in a jar feels like a treat. It also looks pretty on a shelf or beside a computer. If your workplace doesn’t allow candles, you could try a wax melt or essential oil roller instead.
7. Reusable Water Bottle
Everyone needs to stay hydrated. A nice water bottle can make it easier. I’ve given stainless steel ones, colorful plastic bottles, and even ones with time markers to encourage drinking more water.
This gift is practical and encourages wellness. I like to pick ones that are easy to clean and won’t leak in a bag. Some even come with fruit infusers inside.
8. Cozy Socks
It may sound a little silly, but I’ve found that people love getting cozy socks. They feel like a small luxury. I usually pick soft, thick socks in neutral colors or cute patterns.
This works well during the holidays or colder months. If your coworker works from home, they’ll probably use them often. I usually wrap them with a simple ribbon and a little note.
9. A Snack Box
Everyone likes snacks, especially during long workdays. I sometimes make a little snack box with treats like granola bars, trail mix, dark chocolate, or popcorn. If you know their favorite snacks, include those.
You can buy pre-made snack boxes too. Some come with healthy options or fun international treats. I try to avoid anything that needs to be kept cold unless I’m giving it right away.
10. Personalized Sticky Notes
Sticky notes are always useful. I once found a set with my coworker’s name printed on them, and they loved it. You can also find ones with funny messages, cute drawings, or themed shapes.
If you want to keep it simple, buy a small sticky note set in fun colors. Wrap it up with a pen and a card.
11. Mini Puzzle or Game
A little brain break can be refreshing. I’ve given small puzzles, card games, and desktop games like mini bowling or magnetic shapes. These don’t take up much room, and people can use them when they need a quick break from work.
Look for games that don’t make noise. That way, they won’t bother others in the office. These gifts are great for lightening the mood and making someone smile.
12. Hand Cream or Lip Balm
Workspaces can get dry, especially with air conditioning or winter heat. A small hand cream or lip balm can be thoughtful. I go for unscented or lightly scented options. Nothing too greasy or strong.
You can find small gift sets or even just wrap one item with tissue paper and a bow. It’s simple but caring.
13. A Small Gift Card
If you’re unsure what they like, give a small gift card. Even $5 to a local coffee shop or online store can be appreciated. I usually write a short heartfelt message with it. Something like, “Thanks for being such a great teammate” makes it feel personal.
This is also a good option for team gifts when you have many people to buy for.
14. A Custom Keychain
Keychains are small, but they can be personal. I’ve ordered custom keychains with initials, favorite animals, or simple charms. Some are funny. Others are sweet.
They’re usually not expensive and can be shipped quickly. Just make sure the design fits their style.
15. A Digital Gift
For remote coworkers, digital gifts work really well. I’ve sent eBooks, online class vouchers, or even subscriptions to things like meditation apps or music streaming.
These gifts show you thought about them, even if you can’t hand over something in person. It’s a good way to stay connected when you work in different locations.
16. Desk Organizer
A clean desk feels good. I’ve given small desk organizers for pens, paperclips, and sticky notes. Some are made of bamboo or metal. Others are colorful or clear plastic. Pick one that fits their style and workspace.
You don’t need to spend much. Even a small tray or drawer organizer makes a nice gift.
17. Motivational Calendar
I love giving little calendars with quotes. They can sit on a desk or hang on a wall. Each page or month has a fresh message or picture. It adds something positive to a workspace.
Look for ones with pretty designs or simple black and white prints. Some even have tear-off pages for daily notes.
18. Cute Mouse Pad
Mouse pads don’t seem exciting, but they can be. I’ve found ones with fun patterns, soft wrist support, or clever messages. It’s a small change that can make a desk more cheerful.
You can also find personalized ones with initials or custom designs.
19. Mini Whiteboard or To-Do Pad
Some people love writing quick notes. A mini whiteboard or a reusable to-do pad makes it easy. It’s helpful for planning the day or jotting reminders. I gave one to a coworker who always had sticky notes, and she loved it.
You can find them in small sizes that fit right beside a keyboard.
20. Reusable Tote Bag
Tote bags come in handy for groceries, books, or lunches. I like giving simple cotton totes with a fun message or design. Some fold into small pouches, which makes them easy to carry in a bag or drawer.
They’re eco-friendly and useful for everyone.
21. Bluetooth Tracker
For coworkers who misplace things, a small Bluetooth tracker can be a lifesaver. I gave one to someone who kept losing their keys. It’s a thoughtful and practical gift. Some are shaped like little tags that attach to bags or wallets.
It’s a bit more expensive but still affordable for close coworkers.
22. PopSocket or Phone Stand
Many people use their phones all day, even for work. I’ve gifted PopSockets, phone grips, and little stands. They make video calls or scrolling much easier. Some fold flat and fit right into a pocket.
Pick a simple design unless you know their favorite color or theme.
23. Mini Desk Vacuum
This one always gets laughs, but it’s useful. I once got a mini USB desk vacuum shaped like a ladybug. It picked up crumbs and dust like magic. Coworkers love it, especially those who snack at their desks.
Look for small ones that are easy to store in a drawer.
24. Screen Cleaning Kit
Clean screens make a big difference. I’ve given coworkers microfiber cloths and gentle sprays for cleaning laptops or phones. Some come in little travel-size kits.
They’re useful and feel slightly techy without being over the top.
25. Phone Charging Cable or Stand
Cables wear out quickly. I’ve given coworkers nice charging cords with braided covers or magnetic tips. You can also get small stands that hold the phone upright while it charges.
This gift is both helpful and thoughtful.
26. Bookmark Set
For coworkers who like to read, bookmarks are a small but sweet gift. I’ve given leather ones, magnetic clips, and handmade paper bookmarks. You can also pair them with a used or new book if you know their taste.
Wrap it with a short note about your favorite book, and it becomes personal.
27. Decorative Magnets
Office fridges or whiteboards always need magnets. I like giving small sets with pretty patterns, funny quotes, or even cute animals. They’re useful without being boring.
Some come in tins that are easy to wrap.
28. DIY Hot Cocoa Kit
I love this one during winter. I’ve made little hot cocoa kits with a packet of mix, a few marshmallows, and a peppermint stick. Put them in a small jar or bag and tie it with a ribbon.
It’s cozy and thoughtful, and everyone enjoys it.
29. Light Therapy Keychain
For coworkers who feel the winter blues, there are little portable light therapy gadgets. Some are keychain-sized and give off soft white light. It’s a bit more of a wellness gift.
Only give this if you know they’d appreciate it. It’s more niche, but still thoughtful.
30. Funny Socks
If your coworker has a good sense of humor, funny socks are a hit. I’ve seen ones with tacos, puns, or animals in sunglasses. They’re light-hearted and easy to give.
Just make sure the humor is appropriate for work.
31. Pocket Notebook with Prompts
I’ve found notebooks with journaling prompts or lists like “three things I’m grateful for.” It’s calming and reflective. Coworkers who enjoy writing or mindfulness usually like these.
They’re great for quiet moments and can even help with stress.
32. Puzzle Book
Sudoku, crosswords, word searches. These books are perfect for short breaks. I’ve gifted small puzzle books with pens or pencils. They don’t take up much room and are fun for travel too.
Get one with a variety of puzzles to keep things interesting.
33. Happy Hour Kit
If your workplace enjoys casual hangouts, a mini happy hour kit can be fun. I’ve made simple ones with a small bottle of tonic, a fancy mixer, and a cute stirrer. Some kits come ready-made.
Only give this if it fits the office culture and you know the person drinks.
34. Stress Ball or Fidget Toy
Work can get stressful. A little stress ball or desk fidget helps release tension. I’ve seen coworkers use them during long calls or slow days. They’re quiet and don’t distract others.
Look for ones with interesting textures or shapes.
35. Plantable Pencil or Paper
These are fun and sustainable. Some pencils have seeds in the tips. After using them, you can plant the stub in soil. Same goes for plantable paper. It’s a gift and an experience in one.
Great for coworkers who like gardening or eco-friendly gifts.
36. Embroidered Patch or Pin
Pins or patches are small, personal touches. Some people put them on bags, jackets, or even desk boards. I’ve found ones with funny quotes, cute drawings, or uplifting messages.
If you know their interests, this is an easy win.
37. Mini Zen Garden
These tiny sand gardens are relaxing and decorative. I’ve seen coworkers draw little patterns in the sand during meetings. It adds calm to a busy desk.
You can find basic ones with a rake and a few stones.
38. Mood Stickers or Emoji Magnets
These are lighthearted. Some come with moods like “tired,” “focused,” or “need coffee.” People use them to show how they’re feeling that day. I gave a set once and it became a team joke.
Pick designs that are neutral and fun.
39. Work Playlist or Shared Spotify Link
This gift is free, but thoughtful. I once made a coworker a playlist with calm music for focus. You can also send upbeat tunes or relaxing background music. Add a short message like “Hope this helps your workday.”
It’s digital, quick, and kind.
40. Foldable Phone Tripod or Ring Light
For coworkers who do video calls often, a little tripod or light can help. Some are small and fold into a bag. I’ve used one myself, and it makes a difference.
This is especially great for remote teammates or people who present often.
A Few Final Tips
When I give gifts to coworkers, I always think about the setting. Is it a group gift exchange or a personal thank-you?
Some gifts work better for one than the other. I also try to avoid anything too personal, too expensive, or that might cause allergies or discomfort.
Presentation matters too. I don’t go overboard, but I usually wrap the gift or put it in a little bag with a tag. A short handwritten note goes a long way. It shows you took a little extra time, and people notice that.
It’s also important to keep workplace rules in mind. Some offices have gift-giving guidelines or spending limits. If I’m not sure, I ask around or keep things simple.
Above all, I try to focus on kindness. The best gifts are thoughtful, even if they’re small. A little effort can turn someone’s day around. That’s the part I like the most.