Budget Friendly Last-Minute Christmas Gift Ideas for Coworkers
December 12, 2023
The holiday season is upon us! It's a joyous time of year, but your holiday shopping list may still need to be crossed off.
If you work in an environment where gift-giving is encouraged, you may wonder what to get your coworkers. No matter your budget, this collection of Christmas gift ideas for coworkers offers something for everyone. You may even want to grab something on this list for yourself!
Should You Get Your Co-workers Christmas Gifts?
Some workplaces have “no gift” policies, and – if that’s the case – you’ll want to skip the presents this season.
For most places, however, gifts are allowed and even encouraged. Since you spend so much of your week with coworkers, giving them something small but thoughtful can be a nice way to show your appreciation for being on their team.
Should You Get Your Boss a Holiday Gift?
This is another situation where it doesn't hurt to participate if it's allowed. Giving your boss a thoughtful, modest gift can be an act of goodwill and appreciation, even if they don't celebrate Christmas.
A more general "Happy Holidays" gift lets them know that their leadership hasn't gone unnoticed. If you give gifts to some of your coworkers, you don’t want your boss to feel left out.
7 Last-Minute Christmas Gift Ideas for Co-workers
Choosing a gift for a colleague can be difficult. You interact with them daily, but you might not know them that well outside of the office.
The first thing you can ask is, "Would I like this gift?" If so, then you probably have a good item. It's better to give something that can be useful or entertaining for many different people rather than try to get something too specific that might not hit the mark.
Even if you’ve never given coworker gifts before, these ideas should be well received this holiday season.
1. Museum Admission
Are you looking for something unique this season? Many people love the idea of visiting a museum but may not think to treat themselves to admission. Gifting passes to a local museum helps people discover new things and can be very affordable, too!
The Kurt Vonnegut Museum, for example, offers low-cost day passes as a very budget-friendly way to show appreciation to your coworkers.
2. Specialty Snacks
Everyone loves a tasty snack. Giving food gifts is a great idea, but ensure you're aware if your coworker has allergies or food sensitivities. In fact, catering to their dietary restrictions is a great way to show you listen and care.
For example, by giving a tasty gluten-free gift to a coworker who can’t eat wheat, you show that you’re empathetic to their dietary needs. If you’re not certain what someone can and can’t have, don't be afraid to ask! Not every gift needs to be a surprise, and if they know you're on the hunt for a delicious gift, they might offer suggestions. Plus snacks are inexpensive.
3. Visa® Gift Cards
When you don’t know what to give someone, let them decide! Visa® gift cards are incredibly flexible and let the giftee spend any way they wish. Visa® gift cards from Centier Bank can be used just like credit cards for food, fuel, shopping, and more. Visit your local Centier branch to choose a card that fits your budget and gift goals. You can pick from a range of gift card values and help your coworkers and freinds have a happy holiday this year.
4. Break Room Gear (Coffee Mug)
What does your coworker need to give them a better lunch or coffee break experience? You may know better than anyone.
A coffee mug and tea balls are just a few items that show thoughtfulness. You may know their lunch habits and how much they would enjoy a fun bento box or other lunch carrier. And if they are always borrowing your utensils, this is your time to do you both a favor by giving them some useful accessories for making meals more enjoyable at work.
5. Sports Swag
What are the odds that most of your coworkers have a favorite sports team? Probably pretty good. You can help them show their spirit with an assortment of local team accessories, such as hats, gloves, keychains, or even water bottles. The great thing about this gift idea is that you can go as big or as modest as you like, with some items (like koozies, fridge magnets, and pennants) available for under $10!
6. Small Potted Cactus
Plants can lift the mood and even freshen the office air. However, if you don’t know if your coworkers have a green thumb, a cactus is a wise pick. Little succulents are beautiful, easy to care for, and big on aesthetics. Choose a fun pot design or a cactus with an odd shape or color. The great thing about cacti is that they can handle being left alone while away for the weekend or holiday, making them ideal for the office.
7. Notebook
While most of the workday may be spent on a computer or mobile device, there’s something relaxing about writing things down with pen and paper. Giving a notebook or journal to coworkers encourages them to slow down and have some time for introspection. Whether they use it to write poetry or their grocery list, it is a useful gift that will last long after the holiday season is over.
Showing Your Appreciation for your Colleagues & Employees
Remember, the gifts you give your coworkers should say more about unity, the mission of the team, and your personal tastes. It’s possible to give gifts that people remember for years to come, even when they are last minute. For each gift you give, attach a small note of thanks with a personal message about your time working together. Include a sweet memory of a time you shared or make a reference to challenges you overcame.
If you have a photo of the coworker or entire team at a conference, social event, or just hanging out at work, add that to the message. In a time that’s becoming increasingly digital, physical gifts and handwritten notes will be very much appreciated. They can help coworkers have a truly magical holiday season.
Sometimes you have people on your list who seemingly have everything and you need to get a bit more creative. Here's a few more last-minute ideas for the person who has everything.
