Giving work associates gifts this year?
Go beyond a “World’s Greatest Boss” mug and consider your colleagues' personality types. Are they overworked? The office caretaker? A commuter? Putting a little thought into a simple gift can go a long way – and maybe even make the office a little more enjoyable.
1. Working Mom
Under $25: Wonder Woman print
Moms who work at the office and at home never really get a day off. Remind her that she really is Wonder Woman with a superhero print on a vintage dictionary book page. Image is 8x10. From Patrician Prints on Etsy. $10
Over $25: Cotton wrap
Just because she’s a mom, doesn’t mean she’s frumpy. This 84 inch by 27 inch cotton wrap will keep off the office chill. From Territory. $119
2. The Overworked
Under $25: Spafinder gift certificate
Spafinder offers gift certificates in many denominations, which will let them choose how to relax.
Over $25: Unisex robes
After work, let them chill out in an organic luxury cotton robe from Coyuchi. Unisex robes start at $98.
3. The Workaholic
Under $25: USB Light
After the office lights turn off, this USB multi-light lets the workaholic keep going. $15 from Kikkerland.
Over $25: Zazzle t-shirt
This T-shirt sums up the attitude. Available from Zazzle in men’s ($27.40) and women’s ($24.25) sizes and is available on other products.
4. Emotional Laborer
Under $25: Benevolent Giving Card
This person gets the birthday cards, arranges the office parties and generally makes sure everyone is taken care of. For as little as $5, the Benevolent Giving Card connects donors and low-income people who need help reaching their goals. Unlike for-profit crowdfunding sites, Benevolent validated each person’s story with local nonprofit professionals seeking help for their client. Because Benevolent is a nonprofit, donations are tax deductible.
Over $25: Bears for Humanity Teddy Bear
In lieu of a hug, give your officemate a Teddy Bear from Bears for Humanity. For every bear purchased, the company will also personally deliver a stuffed animal to a child in need. Premium bears are $39.99.
5. Bike Commuter
Under $25: Bike Lights
Bike lights make cyclists more visible. The Blackburn Voyager 2.0 LED headlight and Mars Click tail light combo from Performance Bikes allows bikers to be seen coming and going. $19.99
Over $25: Loop Pannier
The Loop Pannier from Po Campo is stylish enough to be seen in the office and on the road. Available in several colors, it holds up to a 13-inch laptop. $99
6. The Brown Bagger
Under $25: Keyboard Placemat
For brown baggers who eat lunch at their desk, help them keep their workspace tidy with a fair-trade, hand-painted placemat to put over their keyboard. From Global Marketplace, $14.99.
Over $25: Bento Stainless Lunch Jar
Zojirushi’s Mr. Bento Stainless Lunch Jar contains four microwaveable inner bowls, a forked spoon with cover and an easy-carry bag. Vacuum insulation keeps hot food hot/cold food cold. About $40 on Amazon.
7. The Commuter/Road Warrior
Under $25: Leather ID Card Holder
Give your transit passes/work IDs/credit cards an international feel with this handmade leather card holder from Beauticraft, which is embossed in Korean script or with tree design. $19 on Etsy.
Over $25: Waterfield Padded Gear Pouch
The padded gear pouch from Waterfield Designs keeps all necessary items in one place. Made in US. $59.
8. The Office Baker
Under $25: RawSpiceBar subscription
The office baker is probably using his or her own stash of supplies to feed your pie hole. RawSpiceBar is a subscription box that delivers three freshly ground spices from around the world for $6 a month. Each box includes three kitchen-tested recipes and information about the spice.
Over $25: Oxo Bakeware
Oxo’s five-piece set of commercial-grade bakeware will make sure the goodies keep coming year after year. $79.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond.