Funny Going Away Gifts For Coworkers [TOP PICKS]
Alright, let’s face it-buying a going-away gift for a coworker can be tricky. It’s that weird mix of excitement and anxiety: excitement because you’re celebrating a new chapter in their life, and anxiety because, well, what if your gift falls flat? You don’t want it to be a boring mug that collects dust, nor do you want it to be so outrageous it makes everyone uncomfortable. Funny gifts can strike that perfect balance, giving your colleague a smile, a laugh, and a memory that sticks. But there’s an art to this kind of gifting-a blend of humor, personal touch, and practicality. Stick with me, and by the end, you’ll be armed with the wisdom (and ideas) to make your coworker’s farewell unforgettable.
10 Funny Going Away Gifts For Coworkers
1. Personalized Office Decor
When you’re trying to find a funny going away gift for a coworker, personalized office decor can be a really fun option. Think about something that they can place in their new office or workspace that adds a touch of humor. You can go for something cheeky or even quirky that’ll make them laugh every time they see it. Personalization makes it extra special, so it’s not just some generic gift-they’ll have something unique to remember their time with you. Plus, office decor can be a subtle reminder of all the good times shared at work. It’s like a little inside joke that keeps the fun alive, even if they’re moving to a new place.
Personalized decor gives you a lot of room to get creative. You could find signs that poke fun at their habits, quirky mugs, or even framed prints with funny quotes about working life. Whatever you choose, it’ll definitely bring a smile to their face while also being a practical gift they can use every day.
Top Picks:
2. Quirky Desk Toys and Stress Relievers
Nothing says ’we’re going to miss you’ quite like a quirky desk toy or a stress-reliever item that your coworker can take along for their new job. These little items can help them unwind during stressful moments or simply provide a laugh when they need a quick break. They’re the kind of gift that’s sure to start a conversation, whether it’s a stress ball that looks like a famous character or a toy that makes funny noises. Plus, the best part is that they’re small enough to fit into a desk drawer and remind your coworker of their fun team every time they need it.
Whether it’s a fidget toy, a funny desk figurine, or a stress-relief squeeze ball in a hilarious shape, this category can offer a lot of personality. These items can be a playful nod to how much you care about your coworker’s wellbeing while keeping things lighthearted. They might even use it in their new job, bringing a bit of that office humor with them wherever they go.
Top Picks:
- Fidget Spinner Desk Toy
- Stress Relief Squeeze Ball – Funny Shape
- Mini Desktop Vacuum Cleaner – Funny Design
3. Funny Coffee Mugs
A classic gift that never gets old: funny coffee mugs. If your coworker is the kind who loves their daily caffeine fix, a mug with a hilarious quote, witty joke, or quirky design is a perfect going away gift. It’s personal, practical, and most importantly-funny! Plus, it’s something they can use daily, giving them a constant reminder of their former colleagues and all the laughs you had. Whether you opt for a mug that pokes fun at their habits or one that’s just full of playful humor, there’s something about sipping coffee from a personalized mug that brings comfort and a smile.
The great thing about funny mugs is that you can really tailor them to your coworker’s personality. From sarcastic quotes to inside jokes, the possibilities are endless. You could even go for one that changes color or has a hidden message. It’s a gift they can use, enjoy, and treasure every time they drink their morning coffee or tea.
Top Picks:
- Funny Sarcastic Coffee Mug – ’I Survived Another Meeting’
- Personalized Office Humor Mug
- Funny Coffee Mug with Hidden Message
4. Humorous Books and Journals
Humorous books or journals can be a quirky and thoughtful way to send off your coworker. Whether it’s a collection of office-related jokes or a guide to surviving a new job, a funny book can give them a good laugh when they need a break from the seriousness of work life. And let’s not forget about journals that are meant to make you smile, featuring funny prompts or quirky quotes. It’s a perfect balance between practical and playful. After all, who doesn’t enjoy a little bit of humor mixed with some self-reflection or light reading? A humorous book or journal doesn’t just give your coworker a good chuckle-it can also inspire them during their new journey. Every time they flip through the pages, they’ll remember the fun moments shared with the team and smile at how thoughtful their gift was. It’s a lasting reminder of their time with you that combines humor and usefulness.
Top Picks:
- The Office Humor Book – A Collection of Office Jokes
- Funny Journal with Office Life Quotes
- Surviving Your First Job Guide – Humor Edition
5. Funny Office Apparel
Humorous office apparel makes for a great gift because it’s something your coworker can wear proudly. Think funny t-shirts, quirky socks, or even snarky ties that make a bold statement about their personality or your time together at work. Whether it’s a shirt that says ’I’m here for the snacks’ or socks with an inside joke, office apparel can add some fun to their wardrobe and provide them with a laugh every time they put it on. Plus, it’s the kind of gift they can wear to their new job, keeping a little piece of your team’s sense of humor with them wherever they go.
Apparel gifts are particularly cool because they’re often lighthearted, yet functional. If your coworker has a good sense of humor, they’ll absolutely appreciate the fun, casual side of this gift. The best part? They might wear it at their new workplace, turning a simple office tee into a quirky icebreaker with their new colleagues.
Top Picks:
- Funny Office T-Shirt – ’This is my Meeting Shirt’
- Quirky Office Socks – ’Coffee First, Work Later’
- Snarky Office Tie – ’I’m Only Here for the Coffee’
6. Silly Desk Accessories
Silly desk accessories can make your coworker’s new workspace feel a little more like home and a lot more fun. These items often mix practical use with a healthy dose of humor, like a stapler that looks like an animal or a desk organizer with a quirky shape. When your coworker moves on to their next chapter, a funny desk accessory will give their new workspace a personal touch and brighten up their day. Plus, these little things can be conversation starters, making it easy for them to break the ice with new people in their next office.
The beauty of silly desk accessories is that they combine humor with functionality, so your coworker can actually use them. Whether it’s a pen holder that’s shaped like a cat or a funny paperclip holder, these little gifts add personality to any workspace. It’s a reminder of all the good times at your workplace, but it also serves as a cute way to keep their desk organized while giving them a laugh.
Top Picks:
- Animal Shaped Stapler
- Funny Paperclip Holder – ’Office Shark’
- Quirky Desk Organizer – ’The Cat Pen Holder’
7. Fun Office Games
For coworkers who love a little playful competition, fun office games are a perfect gift to send them off with. These games can range from card games with a humorous twist to small office-friendly board games that bring out the fun side of any workplace. It’s an excellent way for your coworker to keep the spirit of fun alive at their new job, or even share a laugh with their new team. These games also serve as a reminder that work doesn’t always have to be serious and that sometimes, a good laugh can be the best way to build bonds with new colleagues.
The great thing about fun office games is that they’re interactive and entertaining, offering something to enjoy in downtime. Whether it’s a game for team-building or just a solo activity to relieve stress, it’s an awesome way to remind your coworker of the lighthearted moments at work. Plus, it gives them an instant way to bond with new coworkers.
Top Picks:
- Office Card Game – ’Workplace Jokes Edition’
- Mini Office Trivia Game
- Stress Relief Desk Game – ’Office Olympics’
8. Funny Snacks and Treats
Who doesn’t love a good snack, especially when it comes with a touch of humor? Funny snacks and treats make for an amusing and thoughtful going-away gift. Imagine a basket filled with quirky snacks or candy that has playful labels or funny sayings. Not only will it make your coworker laugh, but they’ll also appreciate the deliciousness that comes with it. It’s a sweet (literally!) gesture to show them you’re thinking of them as they head off to their next adventure, and the humor behind it will make their day that much better.
Funny snacks can also be a fun team activity-maybe they’ll even share them with their new coworkers. Whether it’s a box of cookies with funny messages or a candy assortment that plays on their personality, this gift is perfect for those who have a sweet tooth and a great sense of humor. It’s a thoughtful, practical, and funny way to show you care.
Top Picks:
- Funny Snack Box with Hilarious Labels
- Gourmet Candy Basket – ’Sweet Goodbye’
- Customized Cookies – ’Have a Sweet Journey’
9. Humorous Travel Gear
If your coworker is moving to a new city or taking a well-deserved vacation before starting a new job, humorous travel gear could be the perfect gift. These items add a touch of fun to their travel plans, whether it’s a luggage tag with a funny saying or a travel pillow shaped like something quirky. It’s practical, yet playful, and gives them something to laugh about while they’re on the move. Plus, travel gear can be a great way to make sure they don’t forget about the people they worked with when they’re off on their new adventure.
Travel gifts with humor give a personal touch to an otherwise practical item. They’re not just functional; they bring a little humor to their journey. Whether it’s a travel mug with a funny design or a passport holder that makes a bold statement, this category will definitely brighten their trip and make for a memorable gift.
Top Picks:
- Funny Luggage Tag – ’Off to New Adventures’
- Travel Pillow – ’I’m Here for the Snacks’
- Quirky Passport Holder – ’Don’t Follow Me, I’m Lost’
10. Custom Farewell Cards and Notes
When you really want to show how much you appreciate a coworker who’s leaving, a personalized farewell card or note is always a winner. But why not add some humor to it? Custom farewell cards with funny sayings or inside jokes can make your coworker’s farewell all the more memorable. They’ll definitely appreciate the effort you put into making it special, and it’ll give them something to look back on with a smile. It’s a simple yet heartfelt gift that speaks volumes without being over-the-top.
A personalized note or card can capture everything you want to say in the most creative way. Add some humor that reflects your shared memories, and you’ve got a gift that’s both meaningful and funny. Plus, if you include a little inside joke, it’ll be something they’ll treasure even after they leave.
Top Picks:
- Custom Farewell Card – ’Goodbye, But Not Forgotten’
- Personalized Goodbye Card – ’See You Later, Alligator’
- Funny Leaving Note – ’Good Luck and Don’t Forget Us’
Buyer Guide For Funny Going Away Gifts For Coworkers
When it comes to funny gifts, it’s all about walking that fine line between ’hilarious’ and “totally inappropriate”. Here’s a roadmap to help you navigate the terrain:
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Know Your Coworker’s Sense Of Humor
- Are they sarcastic, dry, slapstick, or pun-loving?
- Observe their reactions to office jokes, memes, or casual teasing-it gives you a blueprint for what might land well.
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Consider The Office Culture
- A prank-heavy, relaxed office can handle more outrageous gifts.
- A formal environment calls for humor that’s clever rather than edgy.
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Size And Practicality Matter
- Funny gifts don’t have to be useless. Think gag gifts that can double as desk décor or conversation starters.
- Mini trophies, quirky calendars, or humorous stationery often hit the sweet spot.
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Personalize Whenever Possible
- Adding your coworker’s name, inside joke, or a reference to their role makes a gift feel thoughtful, not generic.
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Timing Is Everything
- Make sure your gift arrives before or during the farewell party to maximize impact. Nothing deflates the fun like a belated “surprise”.
How To Learn What Someone Really Wants
Here’s where subtle detective work meets gift-giving genius. Understanding what someone truly wants (or would laugh at) can turn a ’meh’ gift into a legendary one:
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Listen Actively In Casual Conversations
- ’I can’t wait to finally…’, ’I wish I had…’, or even complaints about work habits are goldmines.
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Check Social Media Or Hobby Hints
- Likes, posts, or pins can reveal hobbies, favorite shows, or fandoms.
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Ask Indirect Questions
- Casual queries like, ’If you could take anything from the office to your new job, what would it be?’ can reveal preferences without giving away your surprise.
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Get Intel From Other Coworkers
- Sometimes, the best insight comes from those who interact with the person daily. Just don’t make it obvious-it’s all about subtle sleuthing.
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Notice Patterns In Previous Gifts
- What have they laughed at before? What did they actually use or display? History often repeats itself.
Top Gift-Giving Errors To Watch Out For
Ah, the pitfalls. Even well-intentioned gifts can backfire if you’re not careful. Let’s avoid them:
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Being Too Generic Or Impersonal
- ’Happy Travels’ mugs or ’Good Luck’ keychains are safe, but they’re forgettable.
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Overly Risqué Or Controversial Humor
- Jokes about politics, religion, or personal appearance can land wrong-keep it lighthearted.
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Ignoring Office Policies
- Some offices have strict gift limits or anti-prank rules. Make sure your gift won’t violate them.
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Procrastinating
- Last-minute gifts often lack thought or humor. Planning ahead ensures your gift is meaningful.
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Forgetting The Personal Touch
- Humor is great, but a gift without a small personal nod can feel hollow. Even a tiny handwritten note can elevate the experience.
Best Places To Shop For Gifts
Here’s a treasure map to find gifts that are funny, memorable, and perfect for your coworker:
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Online Marketplaces
- Amazon, Etsy, and Uncommon Goods offer a range of quirky, humorous items with tons of reviews to guide your choice.
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Specialty Gift Shops
- Local stores often have unique or handmade items that can’t be found online.
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Office Supply Stores With A Twist
- Think fun stationery, novelty desk toys, and humorous office décor.
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Pop Culture And Novelty Stores
- Hot Topic, ThinkGeek, and similar stores have items tied to fandoms, memes, and pop culture references.
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DIY Or Custom Gifts
- Personalized mugs, custom bobbleheads, or printed inside jokes elevate a gift from funny to unforgettable.
