|

Fun Gifts For Employees [TOP PICKS]

ByBen
Note: This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases when you click on the link, but you are not charged extra.

Gift-giving in the workplace can feel like walking a tightrope. On one hand, a well-chosen gift can make your employees feel valued, appreciated, and genuinely happy. On the other hand, a misstep-whether it’s a boring gift, something too personal, or worse, something that sends the wrong message-can land you in awkward territory.

Other People Also Viewed:

  1. Halloween Gifts For Employees [TOP PICKS]
  2. Mental Health Gifts For Employees [TOP PICKS]
  3. Meaningful Gifts For Employees [TOP PICKS]
  4. International Gifts For Employees [TOP PICKS]
  5. Labor Day Gifts For Employees [TOP PICKS]

The key to success is to focus on fun gifts-those little surprises that spark joy, create smiles, and show thoughtfulness without veering into overly formal or impersonal territory. Fun gifts don’t have to be expensive; they simply need to convey attention, creativity, and an understanding of the person you’re celebrating.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to nail employee gift-giving, from understanding preferences to avoiding common pitfalls, and even where to shop for the most exciting options. By the end, you’ll be armed with ideas, strategies, and confidence to make your next gift memorable.

10 Fun Gifts For Employees

1. Desk Gadgets & Accessories

If your employees spend a lot of time at their desks, adding some quirky and functional desk gadgets can instantly brighten their workday. Think fidget toys, magnetic sculptures, or mini desk games – these not only look cool but also give a little mental break during stressful hours. Everyone loves a desk that’s both practical and a little playful!

Plus, desk gadgets make fantastic conversation starters. Imagine your team members laughing together over a tiny desktop punching bag or competing in a mini desktop golf game. Gifts like these can make the workspace feel lighter, fun, and more creative, giving a little boost to morale and productivity at the same time.

Top Picks:

2. Funny Coffee Mugs

Coffee mugs are classic, but the funny ones? They’re a guaranteed hit. A humorous mug can say everything from ’I survived Monday’ to ’World’s Okayest Employee,’ and let’s be honest, we all secretly want one of those. Perfect for sipping morning coffee or tea while spreading a little laughter across the office.

They’re also super versatile. You can pair them with a bag of coffee, hot chocolate, or even candy for a small but meaningful gift bundle. The best part is watching employees’ faces light up when they read the witty or sarcastic message that feels a little too relatable!

Top Picks:

3. Novelty Office Supplies

Why settle for boring staplers and pens when you can have unicorn-shaped tape dispensers or rainbow-colored sticky notes? Novelty office supplies inject fun into everyday tasks, making mundane work feel just a little more magical. It’s amazing how a tiny twist on a simple tool can spark joy and laughter in the office.

These gifts are also super practical, so they won’t end up in a forgotten drawer. Employees can show off their personality while using them, making the office environment more lively. Plus, it’s an easy way to add a splash of humor and color to someone’s workday without going over the top.

Top Picks:

4. Stress Relief Toys

Everyone needs a little stress relief at work, right? Stress balls, squishy toys, and desk punching bags are perfect for letting off steam without leaving the office. They’re playful, tactile, and can be seriously satisfying to squeeze, punch, or toss when deadlines start piling up.

Beyond just stress relief, these toys spark spontaneous fun and a bit of friendly competition. Employees can race their spinning tops, compete with stress ball tricks, or just enjoy the sheer silliness of it. It’s a small gift that reminds your team you care about their well-being and their smiles.

Top Picks:

5. Board Games & Card Games

Nothing brings coworkers together like a good game! Board games and card games make excellent fun gifts because they encourage teamwork, laughter, and a break from screens. Whether it’s a quick card game or a strategic board game, employees will love having something fun to play during lunch breaks or team-building events.

Games also give everyone a chance to show off a different side of themselves – the strategist, the joker, the negotiator. Plus, they’re a gift that keeps giving, because every game night or office break spent playing is another opportunity for bonding and shared memories.

Top Picks:

6. Snack & Treat Boxes

Who doesn’t love snacks? Gifting employees a curated box of treats is an instant mood booster. Think gourmet chocolates, crunchy chips, exotic nuts, or even a little mix of healthy goodies. It’s a tasty way to show appreciation without being too serious or formal.

Snack boxes are also great conversation starters in the office kitchen. Employees will swap favorites, discover new treats, and maybe even bond over shared cravings. It’s a small, thoughtful gesture that literally gives energy and joy, keeping the team fueled and happy.

Top Picks:

7. Tech Gadgets & Accessories

For employees who love a little tech in their life, small gadgets and accessories can make for fun, useful gifts. Wireless chargers, quirky USB devices, or mini Bluetooth speakers can make their workday a little cooler. It’s a gift that feels high-tech but approachable.

Tech gifts are great conversation starters too. Imagine someone showing off a tiny USB cup warmer or a gadget that doubles as a stress toy. They combine novelty with utility, making them ideal for anyone who enjoys fun and functional office accessories.

Top Picks:

8. Personalized Gifts

Nothing says ’thoughtful’ quite like a personalized gift. Customized mugs, engraved pens, or monogrammed notebooks show that you put extra thought into your employees’ gifts. It’s more than just an object – it’s a little piece of recognition and appreciation.

Personalized gifts are also a way to make employees feel uniquely valued. Even a small gesture like adding their name or a funny title to an item can spark genuine joy. They’re perfect for making an otherwise ordinary gift feel extraordinary.

Top Picks:

9. Office Decor & Fun Posters

Who says office walls have to be bland? Fun posters, quirky signs, and little decor items can make the workspace feel lively and personal. Whether it’s a motivational quote with a humorous twist or a mini piece of art, these gifts brighten up cubicles and offices instantly.

Decor items are also great conversation starters. Employees will enjoy showing off their corner of the office or bonding over funny or inspiring artwork. It’s a gift that keeps giving – every time they look at it, it’s a reminder of thoughtfulness and fun.

Top Picks:

10. Books & Journals

Books aren’t just for serious reading – a well-chosen book or journal can be a fun gift too! Think quirky workplace humor books, creative journals, or fun puzzle books. They’re great for employees who enjoy a little mental escape or a creative outlet.

Journals and books can inspire, amuse, and provide a welcome break from routine tasks. They’re gifts that show you value both their work and personal downtime. Plus, employees might even end up sharing funny insights or doodles from their journals, creating a ripple of positivity in the office.

Top Picks:

Buyer Guide For Fun Gifts For Employees

When choosing gifts, the ’fun factor’ is your best friend. Here’s how to approach it like a pro:

  • Consider Personality Types

    • Are they the office jokester or the quiet thinker?
    • Outgoing personalities may enjoy quirky gadgets or games, while introverts might prefer something cozy, like a high-quality mug or blanket.

  • Think Practical, But Playful

    • Functional gifts can still be fun. For example:

      • Desk toys like kinetic sand, magnetic sculptures, or fidget gadgets.
      • Miniature tech items, like USB-powered gadgets or portable chargers with a twist.

  • Budget Wisely

    • Fun doesn’t mean expensive. A well-chosen $15-$30 gift can bring more joy than a generic $100 gift.
    • Group gifts are also a great idea if you want to splurge without breaking the bank.

  • Consider Customization

    • Personalized items (like engraved pens, custom mugs, or caricature prints) show that you thought specifically about them.

  • Seasonal And Trendy Options

    • Seasonal gifts (like holiday-themed goodies or summer essentials) are fun because they feel timely.
    • Keep an eye on trends, but don’t go overboard. Pop culture references can be fun but may not age well.

How To Learn What Someone Really Wants

This is where the magic happens. The better you know your employees, the better your gifts will land. Here’s how to dig a little deeper:

  • Observe Daily Interactions

    • Listen for casual mentions: ’I wish I had a better water bottle’ or “I love these types of puzzles”.
    • Pay attention to hobbies, favorite colors, or items they bring from home.

  • Ask Subtle Questions

    • Frame it in a casual conversation: ’I was thinking of getting some fun office gifts-what”s your favorite type of little treat or gadget”?
    • Sometimes asking in a group setting can help employees share ideas without feeling singled out.

  • Use Surveys Or Polls

    • Short, fun polls like ’Pick one: quirky, cozy, or practical?’ can provide excellent guidance without being invasive.

  • Leverage Shared Interests

    • If you know several team members share a hobby (like gaming, fitness, or cooking), group gifts that tap into that interest can be a hit.

Top Gift-Giving Errors To Watch Out For

Even with the best intentions, mistakes happen. Avoid these common missteps:

  • Overly Generic Gifts

    • Gift cards, plain mugs, or ’one-size-fits-all’ items often feel impersonal. They may be appreciated, but they rarely excite.

  • Ignoring Company Culture

    • A gift that clashes with your office culture can be uncomfortable. A gag gift might be funny in a casual startup but inappropriate in a conservative corporate environment.

  • Being Too Personal

    • Avoid gifts that touch on sensitive topics, such as weight, appearance, or religion. Fun should never feel invasive.

  • Skipping Presentation

    • Even a small gift can feel magical if wrapped creatively or presented thoughtfully. A gift left on a desk without a note or explanation may go unnoticed.

  • Last-Minute Shopping

    • Rushed gifts often lack thought. Planning ahead ensures you have the time to pick something meaningful.

Best Places To Shop For Gifts

Finding the right gift often comes down to where you shop. Here are some of the best options:

  • Online Retailers

    • Amazon, Etsy, UncommonGoods: great for unique gadgets, personalized items, and niche finds.

  • Specialty Stores

    • Local gift boutiques, art shops, or stationery stores often carry unique items that big-box stores don’t.

  • Subscription Boxes

    • Monthly gift boxes (like snacks, books, or DIY kits) give a gift that keeps on giving and can feel very personalized.

  • Office Supply Stores

    • Don’t overlook them! Fun office gadgets, quirky stationery, and practical items with personality are easy to find.

  • DIY Options

    • Handmade gifts or custom kits (like cookie decorating kits or craft sets) show personal effort and creativity.

Similar Posts