Showing your team how much you value them builds a positive work environment that will help your business thrive.
Whether you’re celebrating employee milestones, the holiday season, or simply saying “thank you,” finding meaningful corporate gifts can be challenging.
Luckily for you, we’ve got 30+ years of industry experience and are here to help you.
In this guide, you’ll find 41 team gift ideas for work that will bring joy to your staff and make them feel valued.
We’ll also share some of the upsides and downsides of corporate gift-giving, as well as some useful tips, so you’ll be well prepared.
Let’s start!
Table of Contents
What’s the Importance of Gifting Team Members?
41 Best Team Gift Ideas for Work
What Are the Challenges of Giving Gifts to Employees?
How Do You Choose Team Gifts That Suit Diverse Preferences?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the Importance of Gifting Team Members?
Gifting team members is a meaningful gesture that brings a world of benefits to your business.
Here are some of the main advantages.
Boosts morale and motivation
Thoughtful gifts show team members their hard work doesn’t go unnoticed and will motivate them to keep up the good work.
According to a BR Printers report, 25.8% of employees feel appreciated by their employer when offered swag.
Moreover, corporate gift-giving can lift the spirits of your remote employees, who often feel isolated and unseen.
Strengthens relationships
Gifts for employees create a sense of belonging to the company, making team members feel irreplaceable.
Even something as simple as remembering and celebrating an employee’s birthday can strengthen your bond and build brand loyalty.
The same BR Printers report reveals that 24.3% of employees feel included in the team when they receive promo items from their employer.
Increases engagement and retention
Company gifts help create a happy workplace where everyone feels included, acknowledged, and supported.
This positive work environment drives engagement and improves employee retention.
According to a Nectar survey, 81.9% of employees agree that work acknowledgment enhances their engagement, and 71% agree it makes them less likely to quit.
Reinforces brand values
Carefully curated company swag can reflect your brand’s values by aligning with your principles, like sustainability, innovation, or inclusivity.
These gifts show your staff that your company doesn’t just talk about these values but lives by them.
This will make employees proud to work for you, encouraging genuine brand advocacy.
Now, let us inspire you with some real-life gift ideas.
41 Best Team Gift Ideas for Work
Using our extensive industry experience and customer feedback, we’ve rounded up 41 standout employee appreciation gifts.
From small, affordable swag to luxury promotional products, you’ll find something for every budget in this comprehensive list.
Let’s dive in!
1. MiiR Vacuum Insulated Camp Cup
Forget about the traditional coffee mug and impress your staff with the MiiR camp cup instead.
This custom mug features double-wall vacuum insulation and a lid to keep beverages hot for hours.
Why we recommend it: You can include this promo item in your new hire welcome kits to make a good impression from the get-go.
2. Moleskine Large Notebook and Kaweco Pen Gift Set
Elevate your team’s writing experience with this high-quality gift set.
Given that Moleskine is a renowned luxury notebook manufacturer and Kaweco is one of the oldest pen producers on the market, this is a special gift.
Why we recommend it: The high-end custom notebook and pen show you want nothing but the best for your staff.
3. Graphite Dome Computer Business Case
The Graphite Dome computer business case is the perfect gift for employees who are constantly on the move.
This spacious product is designed to hold a laptop, important documents, and office supplies.
Why we recommend it: The minimalist, professional appearance of this promotional product will elevate any business attire.
4. Bellroy Laptop Sleeve
Laptops have become indispensable work tools, so protecting them is key.
The Bellroy laptop sleeve has a magnetic bumper entry to prevent scratching and a quilted microfiber lining for protection.
Why we recommend it: You can improve a new employee’s onboarding experience with this thoughtful gift.
5. Reclaim Recycled Computer Backpack
A roomy computer backpack is the best gift for team members who commute to work daily.
However, apart from its functionality, our backpack is also an eco-friendly promotional product made from 100% recycled PET.
Why we recommend it: A branded backpack featuring your company logo exposes your brand to the public with each use.
6. Dual Pocket RFID Phone Wallet
Our RFID Phone Wallet is a practical and modern gift that keeps your team’s cards organized and secure.
RFID-blocking technology protects against digital theft, showing that you care about your staff’s safety.
Why we recommend it: Compact and convenient, this branded product is ideal for busy employees who value functionality and style in their everyday lives.
7. Classic Six-Can Lunch Cooler
Promote corporate wellness with a lunch cooler that inspires recipients to bring home-cooked meals and healthy snacks to the office.
This classic cooler features PEVA insulation to protect your lunch from extreme temperatures.
Why we recommend it: According to the World Health Organization, a healthy diet can protect you against diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer.
8. The Maven Soft Touch Metal Pen
Branded pens are office gifts that will never go out of style due to their practicality.
Moreover, the Maven pen features a rubberized barrel with chrome accents, which add a touch of sophistication to your gift.
Why we recommend it: This budget-friendly employee gift is a daily reminder of your appreciation, promoting a sense of pride.
9. Ambassador Bound JournalBook Bundle Gift Set
While on the topic of affordable desk accessories, we want to mention the Ambassador gift bundle.
The set includes a sleek notebook with elastic closure that comes in five different colors and a matching ballpoint pen.
Why we recommend it: According to the 2023 ASI report, 52% of Americans would keep and use a promo writing instrument for one year or longer, making pens enduring keepsakes.
10. Modern Sprout Tiny Terracotta Grow Kit Thank-You Daisies
Brighten your team’s workspace with this DIY kit featuring a mini terracotta planter and everything you need to grow your own daisies.
Thanks to the innovative wicking system, these daisies will thrive even if the employee forgets to water them or overwaters them.
Why we recommend it: Studies show that indoor plants, like flowers and succulents, improve productivity and reduce stress.
11. Speckled Thor Copper Vacuum Insulated Bottle
Insulated water bottles promote all-day hydration, showing staff members you care about their well-being.
The Speckled Thor bottle has a durable, double-wall, stainless steel vacuum construction with copper insulation that keeps beverages cold for 48 hours or hot for 12 hours.
Why we recommend it: According to the CDC, drinking water prevents dehydration, which can cause unclear thinking, mood swings, overheating, and kidney stones.
12. Arctic Zone Titan Thermal HP Slim Cooler
Given that hydration is so important for your team’s well-being, you can also opt for the Arctic Zone cooler.
This one-of-a-kind custom tumbler is designed to hold a slim can inside and keep it cold throughout the workday.
Why we recommend it: You can offer this tumbler as a summer giveaway during outdoor team-building activities to prevent dehydration.
13. Welly Copper Vacuum Tumbler
Let’s not forget that most people use tumblers daily to sip coffee or tea on their way to work.
The best part is that the Welly tumbler features an eye-catching design that will draw attention to the company logo printed on its side, generating brand exposure.
Why we recommend it: Welly donates 1% of each product sale to the construction of wells in areas without clean water.
14. Women’s OTIS SS Polo
If you want to impress your team, opt for a high-quality polo shirt instead of a regular t-shirt.
The women’s Otis SS polo has shaped seams, a tapered waist for a flattering fit, and comes in ten trendy colors.
Why we recommend it: By offering branded apparel to all your team members, you create a sense of unity and inclusivity in the workplace.
15. Men’s OTIS SS Polo
Don’t worry; we haven’t forgotten about your male employees.
The Otis SS polo comes in a men’s version as well and it features the same breathable fabric with moisture-wicking properties as the women’s version.
Why we recommend it: By investing in high-quality clothing items, you encourage recipients to wear them outside of work, exposing your company logo to the world.
16. Women’s PEYTO Softshell Jacket
While polo shirts can be a fun way to welcome new employees, we recommend going the extra mile for senior staff members with a branded jacket.
The PEYTO softshell jacket has a breathable, waterproof membrane and water-repellent finish that will keep recipients warm and dry on rainy days.
Why we recommend it: According to the 2023 ASI report, outerwear items generate 7,856 impressions over their lifetime, making them an extremely effective promo product.
17. Men’s PEYTO Softshell Jacket
The PEYTO jacket also comes in a men’s version, offering the same convenience.
Thanks to its articulated elbows and ergonomic sleeves, employees can even wear this jacket while jogging, cycling, or hiking.
Why we recommend it: The same 2023 ASI report found that outerwear is the most influential promo product for men and women, so you can’t go wrong with this gift option.
18. Hang In There Lanyard
Branded lanyards make great onboarding gifts because employees can wear them daily together with their ID badges.
The Hang In There lanyard comes in red and blue and includes a breakaway neck clip and a detachable plastic clip with a wide metal swivel hook.
Why we recommend it: This promotional material helps create a cohesive team identity while subtly showcasing your company name.
19. Ash Recycled Drawstring Bag
The Ash drawstring bag has an office-ready appearance, making it ideal for carrying your gym clothes to work without anyone noticing.
Of course, team members can also use this lightweight bag to carry their essentials during weekend activities.
Why we recommend it: The Ash drawstring bag is an eco-friendly promotional gift made from recycled water bottles.
20. Lighthouse 24-Can Non-Woven Tote Cooler
If you’re looking for a more spacious alternative to the drawstring bag, the Lighthouse tote bag is a perfect choice.
The best part is that this tote bag doubles as a cooler due to its foil-lined interior, which provides lasting temperature control.
Why we recommend it: You can turn this tote into a swag bag full of goodies and offer it as a holiday gift.
21. Hipster Budget Fanny Pack
A fanny pack is a functional, trendy, and budget-friendly promotional item that keeps essentials within easy reach.
Due to its hands-free design, this fanny pack can be used while commuting, traveling, or practicing outdoor activities.
Why we recommend it: You can personalize this swag item with your company logo to turn it into an accessory that promotes style and team pride.
22. Multi-Purpose Travel Bag
Our multi-purpose travel bag is ideal for keeping toiletries, cosmetics, or other travel essentials organized.
Even though this bag is compact, you can fit multiple items into its zippered top pocket, front mesh pocket, and side loop.
Why we recommend it: Travel promotional items make thoughtful gifts for employees who travel a lot for work or pleasure.
23. Jolt 2,200 mAh Power Bank
The Jolt power bank will keep employees’ gadgets charged at all times, even if they’ve left their chargers at home.
We love the compact size of this power bank that allows you to carry it with you wherever you go.
Why we recommend it: According to the 2023 ASI report, 51% of Americans would keep and use a promo power bank for 2 years or longer.
24. Mouse Pad with Coating
Mouse pads are essential tech accessories in any workspace.
The only problem is that employees don’t wash their hands before every use, making these accessories quite unsanitary.
Our mouse pad solves this problem due to its antimicrobial properties that inhibit bacterial growth.
Why we recommend it: You can customize the mouse pad with a motivational quote for employees to boost their engagement.
25. Royal Fleet Smart Fitness Tracker
For employees who spend all day working at a desk, a fitness tracker can be a good motivator to become more active.
The Royal Fleet tracker monitors steps and calories, as well as heart rate, blood pressure, and sleep patterns.
Why we recommend it: Promotional fitness products show your team that you care about their health and well-being.
26. Slim Can Insulator
Surprise your staff with this slim can insulator and some ice-cold beverages on hot summer days.
Thanks to its neoprene material, this insulator keeps cans cold longer and is comfortable to hold.
Why we recommend it: This employee appreciation gift is a fun and practical accessory that can also be used during backyard gatherings or at summer festivals.
27. Colorized Manual Inversion Umbrella
Keep team members dry on rainy days with the Colorized manual inversion umbrella.
This umbrella opens and closes ‘inside-out,’ making it easier to use when entering and exiting vehicles or buildings.
Why we recommend it: Turn this promo item into a personalized gift that generates brand exposure by printing your company name on it.
28. UV Desktop Phone Sanitizer
A UV Desktop Phone Sanitizer is a modern gift that shows you prioritize your team’s health.
This gadget uses UV-C light technology to kill 99% of microorganisms in just 10 minutes.
Why we recommend it: Recipients can use this tech swag item to sanitize their phone, keychain, jewelry, and other mini essentials.
29. Auden Bamboo Lap Desk
The Auden bamboo lap desk is the perfect gift for keeping remote employees engaged.
This product features a vented tray for laptop ventilation, an integrated mouse pad, and a phone dock, making it a fully functional, portable office desk.
Why we recommend it: Include the Auden laptop desk in a work-at-home kit for remote workers to make them feel appreciated.
30. Calm Meadow Mini Tin Candle
Essential oil diffusers and aromatherapy candles make thoughtful additions to employee care packages.
This mini tin candle combines the scent of lavender, white sage, and mint with hints of sea salt and green apple.
Why we recommend it: Research shows that aromatherapy can improve memory, cognitive performance, concentration, sleep quality, and emotional well-being.
31. Heritage Supply Plant, Grow, and Store Trio of Pots
This trio of pots encourages employees to bring indoor plants to work, adding a personal touch to their workspace and brightening their workdays.
The Heritage canvas pots promote massive root growth, creating healthy plants.
Why we recommend it: If the recipient is not a plant person, they can use these pots as stylish storage organizers.
32. Igloo The Fun Starts Here Gourmet Cooler
The Igloo gourmet cooler will delight foodie staff members.
Whether the recipient has a sweet tooth or prefers salty treats, they’ll find something yummy in this snack gift basket.
Why we recommend it: Once team members finish indulging in the salty and sweet treats, they can reuse the cooler to carry their lunch to work.
33. Pristine 10000 Wireless Power Bank with UV Sanitizer
The Pristine power bank with UV sanitizer is an office gift that combines practicality with self-care.
With a 10,000 mAh capacity, this cool office supply can charge all your employee’s gadgets on the go and sanitize their essentials.
Why we recommend it: This tech-savvy, healthcare promotional item will likely spark conversations about your brand.
34. NBN Work Anywhere Computer Backpack
This computer backpack is a lifesaver for sales representatives and other staff members who frequently go on business trips.
Our roomy backpack features a padded laptop compartment, a main compartment, a zippered mesh pocket, an organizational front panel, and a bottom compartment.
Why we recommend it: This is a high-end corporate gift that will leave a lasting impression on your best-performing employees, improving retention.
35. Light Up Logo Wireless Optical Mouse
Equip team members with top-of-the-line gadgets, like this wireless optical mouse, to enhance their everyday productivity.
The Light Up Logo mouse has three DPI levels for speed adjustment and an ergonomic design, making it ideal for work and gaming.
Why we recommend it: If you want to boost engagement, you can organize a computer gaming contest at work and award the winner this mouse.
36. Smart Wifi Video Doorbell
The Smart WiFi video doorbell is a cutting-edge gift that brings convenience and security to your employees’ homes.
This doorbell connects to the Wifi and allows you to see and talk to whoever is at the door and even record them.
Why we recommend it: This meaningful gift helps protect your staff and their families, showing the utmost care for their well-being.
37. UV Sanitizer Desk Clock with Wireless Charging
Desk clocks promote punctuality and productivity in the workplace.
However, this is no ordinary desk clock since it also functions as a UV sanitizer and wireless charger.
Why we recommend it: Besides being a versatile gadget, this clock has a modern, sleek design that will enhance the appearance of any office desk.
38. CamelBak Eddy+ Bottle Tritan Renew
This reusable sports water bottle can inspire sedentary employees to embrace a more active lifestyle.
The screw-on lid with spill-proof bite valve and one-finger carry handle make this drinkware the perfect outdoor adventure companion.
Why we recommend it: This promotional product comes in five fun colors so you can match it to your brand colors.
39. Phoozy XP3
Keep your employees’ phones safe during hot summer days with the top-of-the-line Phoozy XP3.
This durable case is made from a material derived from NASA’s spacesuit technology, which reflects over 90% of the sun’s heat, preventing overheating and phone damage.
Why we recommend it: The Phoozy XP3 features an internal stash pocket for cards and cash, eliminating the need for bulky wallets.
40. Bellroy Tech Kit
The Bellroy tech kit keeps small gadgets and cables neatly organized and accessible.
This zippered case features stretch-mesh pockets, elastic cable organizers, and a magnetic slip pocket.
Why we recommend it: Thanks to the kit’s compact design, staff members can carry it in their bag or backpack daily.
41. 1080P HD Webcam with Microphone
A high-quality webcam with a microphone is essential for both in-person and remote employees, since many client meetings take place online.
One of the best features of this gadget is the noise cancellation function that guarantees clearer and smoother communications.
Why we recommend it: The webcam also has an automatic light correction feature that adjusts to your surroundings to improve image quality.
Now, before you start planning your next gift-giving campaign, let’s go over some of the challenges you might face.
What Are the Challenges of Giving Gifts to Employees?
Offering employees corporate gifts can be tricky, which is why we’re here to prep you.
Check out the most common challenges you might face and how to overcome them.
Customization and personalization
Finding a gift that matches an employee’s preferences or interests and individually customizing each item takes a lot of time and effort.
To speed things up, we advise you to create a virtual swag-on-demand gift shop where team members can choose the swag they like and customize it however they want.
Logistics and delivery
If you work with remote team members from all corners of the country, handling multiple gift orders and shipping logistics can be a nightmare.
That’s why we advise entrusting SwagDrop with these complex tasks.
We’ve been on the market for over 30 years and only work with trusted carriers, so you can rest assured that your gifts will reach the right destination in time.
Budget constraints
Offering high-quality employee appreciation gifts comes with a hefty price tag.
On top of that, during the holiday season, you must offer Christmas gifts to your entire staff, which will put a dent in your company’s budget.
You’ll be glad to know that you can find plenty of high-quality gifts at affordable rates in our SwagDrop shop and we even offer discounts for bulk orders.
Inclusivity and appropriateness
A thoughtful gift must take into account a team member’s cultural background and potential dietary or lifestyle restrictions.
Otherwise, you risk offending recipients or offering them a company gift they’ll never be able to enjoy, damaging your relationship.
By allowing employees to pick their own gifts from the swag-on-demand shop, you’ll no longer have to worry about this.
Coming up next, we’ll give you some tips on how to choose great gifts.
How Do You Choose Team Gifts That Suit Diverse Preferences?
Here are some practical tips on how to pick swag items that cater to different preferences:
- Get to know your employees through surveys and informal chats regarding their interests and hobbies.
- Take into account seniority in the company. After all, if a new hire and a senior staff member receive the same gift, it won’t motivate them to strive for more.
- Offer gift cards to Amazon or eBay where team members can pick products they want or need. However, note that these gifts are quite impersonal and won’t leave a lasting impression.
- Prioritize quality and practicality to make sure employees will frequently use or wear the promotional products.
- Always add a personal touch, even if it’s just a handwritten note thanking staff members for their hard work.
- Offer diverse gift options and allow employees to choose the items they like best. Don’t forget about our swag-on-demand shops.
- Opt for meaningful, affordable gifts that build stronger connections, instead of extravagant and expensive items that will drain your budget.
Now, it’s your turn.
Tips, tricks, and inspiration delivered straight to your inbox.
Over to You!
You’ll find something for every personality and occasion on our list of 41 team gift ideas for work.
Whether it’s a cool gadget, a thoughtful self-care product, or a practical accessory, these corporate gifts go a long way in showing appreciation and strengthening relationships.
Browse our SwagDrop shop for more inspiration and start planning your next gift-giving campaign.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some of the most common questions our clients frequently ask.
What are some non-material team gift ideas for work?
Some non-material team gift ideas for work are:
- Paid subscriptions to platforms like Netflix, Disney+, or YouTube
- Gym memberships
- Team-building experiences, like escape rooms or cooking classes
- Access to professional development courses or workshops
- Experience-based gifts, like concert tickets or a weekend getaway
What are some eco-friendly team gift options for work?
Some eco-friendly team gift options for work can include:
- Tote bags
- Sustainable backpacks
- Tumblers and reusable water bottles
- Apparel made from recycled materials
- Notebooks or notepads featuring recycled paper
What are some high-end or luxury team gift options for special occasions?
High-end or luxury team gift options for special occasions can include:
- Premium notebooks and pens
- Top-of-the-line jackets
- High-end Bluetooth speakers and headphones
- Luxury self-care gift baskets
How do you handle team gifting for remote or hybrid teams?
Gifting for remote or hybrid teams is all about inclusivity and convenience. For instance, you can send employees a cozy blanket, a branded mug, and some sweet treats to enhance their comfort. Likewise, you can opt for virtual swag, like online classes or streaming subscriptions.