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Farewell Gifts For Employees [TOP PICKS]

ByBen
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Saying goodbye to a colleague can be a bittersweet experience. Whether they’re leaving for a new job, retiring, or embarking on a different adventure, finding the right farewell gift is a way to show appreciation, goodwill, and support for the journey ahead. But picking out a farewell gift for an employee goes beyond simply choosing something off the shelf-it’s about considering the recipient’s personality, preferences, and the relationship you’ve built with them over the years.

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A well-chosen gift can make a lasting impression, create a meaningful memory, and leave them with a sense of gratitude. In contrast, a poorly thought-out gift might send the wrong message, leaving both the giver and the receiver feeling awkward or disappointed.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into how you can select the perfect farewell gift for an employee, from understanding their needs and preferences to avoiding common mistakes. Whether you’re a manager, coworker, or HR professional, you’ll walk away with all the tools you need to make the gift-giving process both thoughtful and rewarding.

10 Farewell Gifts For Employees

1. Personalized Mugs

Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good mug? Personalized mugs are a fantastic way to remind your departing coworker that they were truly appreciated. You can get their name, a memorable quote, or even a funny inside joke printed on it. Every morning when they sip their coffee or tea, they’ll think of all the good times and laughs shared at the office. It’s small, simple, and incredibly thoughtful.

Plus, mugs are super practical. Unlike gifts that might gather dust in a drawer, mugs get used daily. They’re perfect for both home and office, and every time someone compliments their stylish or quirky mug, they’ll proudly say it was a gift from their amazing team. It’s a warm, heartfelt gesture that keeps the memories alive.

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2. Desk Accessories

Desk accessories are such a brilliant choice because they combine thoughtfulness with utility. Think elegant pen holders, sleek organizers, or even a classy paperweight. These gifts say, ’We hope your next desk is just as stylish as your old one!’ Every time your former colleague sits down to work, they’ll have a small piece of your team with them.

Another great thing about desk accessories is their versatility. They fit into almost any workspace-home office, corporate setting, or even a creative studio. By choosing a stylish or personalized piece, you show attention to detail and a genuine interest in making their future workspace enjoyable and organized.

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3. Gift Baskets

Gift baskets are like the Swiss Army knife of farewell gifts. You can fill them with goodies tailored to the person-gourmet snacks, chocolates, coffee, tea, or even self-care items. It’s like giving them a bundle of happiness that says, ’We’re going to miss you, and we want you to treat yourself!’

The beauty of gift baskets is in the presentation. A thoughtfully arranged basket looks amazing and feels luxurious. Plus, you can mix and match items to perfectly match the personality of the departing employee, making it feel extra personal and intentional. It’s hard not to feel special receiving one of these.

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4. Personalized Notebooks

A personalized notebook might seem simple, but it carries a lot of meaning. It’s a symbol of new beginnings, creativity, and a fresh chapter. You can have their name embossed on the cover, add a farewell message inside, or even select one with a design that reflects their personality. Every note, idea, or doodle they jot down will remind them of their time with your team.

Notebooks are incredibly versatile, too. They’re perfect for work, personal journaling, or even as a planner for new adventures. Unlike gifts that get set aside, a notebook gets actively used, making it a constant companion and a subtle daily reminder of the thoughtfulness behind the gesture.

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5. Engraved Pens

A classy, engraved pen is one of those gifts that instantly makes someone feel appreciated and respected. It’s professional, elegant, and highly practical. Imagine your coworker signing documents or jotting notes with a pen that literally has their name engraved-it’s a subtle yet constant reminder of their contribution and the friendships they formed.

Engraved pens also carry a sense of sophistication and permanence. Unlike casual gifts, a high-quality pen lasts years, often becoming a keepsake. It’s perfect for someone moving into a new role or company, as it’s a professional gift that’s both meaningful and highly functional.

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6. Photo Frames

Photo frames are a classic for a reason. They let you capture a special memory or group photo from the office and turn it into a keepsake. Every time your colleague looks at the framed picture, they’ll remember the laughter, teamwork, and all the moments that made their time special.

Frames are highly versatile too-you can go for something elegant, funny, or even personalized with engraved messages. It’s a heartfelt way to say goodbye, and because it’s something they can display on a desk or at home, it’s a gift that keeps their memories visible every day.

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7. Travel Accessories

If your departing employee loves to travel, travel accessories are a super thoughtful and practical gift. Think luggage tags, passport holders, travel organizers, or even portable chargers. These gifts say, ’We know you’re going places-literally and figuratively-and we want to help you on your journey!’

The beauty here is that travel accessories are both functional and stylish. A personalized passport holder or a monogrammed luggage tag not only looks cool but also helps keep their travels organized. Plus, it adds a fun touch of personality to their adventures, making it a gift they’ll actually use and cherish.

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8. Gift Cards

Gift cards are the ultimate flexible farewell gift. They let your coworker choose exactly what they want, whether it’s books, experiences, clothes, or even a fancy dinner. It’s a simple yet effective way to show appreciation without the risk of picking something they might not like.

The other great thing about gift cards is that they feel personal if paired with a heartfelt note. You can say, ’We’ll miss you-treat yourself to something special!’ and they’ll feel the warmth of the gesture. It’s practical, versatile, and universally appreciated, making it a perfect fail-safe gift.

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9. Books

Books are wonderful because they offer inspiration, knowledge, or even just pure entertainment. Whether it’s a professional development book, a collection of motivational quotes, or a novel in a genre they love, a carefully chosen book shows you know them and their interests. It’s like giving a companion for the next chapter of their life.

Books also have a lasting quality. Unlike fleeting gifts, a book can be reread, shared, or displayed on a shelf as a reminder of the thoughtfulness behind it. Adding a personal note on the first page makes it even more special, turning it from just a book into a cherished memento.

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10. Plants

Plants are a lively and cheerful gift that literally brings life into a space. A small succulent, a potted plant, or even an indoor flowering plant can brighten up a desk or home. They symbolize growth, new beginnings, and nurturing relationships-perfect for someone stepping into a new chapter of life.

Another fun aspect of gifting plants is that they require care and attention, which makes the act of gifting more personal. Your colleague will think of your team every time they water or tend to the plant. It’s a subtle but meaningful way to keep memories alive and give something that keeps on giving.

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Buyer Guide For Farewell Gifts For Employees

When it comes to buying a farewell gift for an employee, the stakes can feel high. After all, it’s a chance to send them off with something memorable, but also something that shows you truly understand their tastes. The key here is personalization-making sure the gift resonates with the recipient’s personality, role, and contributions.

Here are some pointers to keep in mind when choosing that perfect gift:

Consider Their Personality & Interests

  • Personal tastes: What are they passionate about outside of work? Do they love cooking, photography, sports, or reading? Gifts that tap into a person’s hobbies or outside interests are often appreciated because they show you’ve thought about who they are as a person, not just a coworker.
  • Character & preferences: Some employees might appreciate something sentimental, while others might lean toward more practical or humorous gifts. For instance, a more introverted person might appreciate something quieter or more personal, while an outgoing person might enjoy a fun, whimsical gift.

Reflect On Their Work History

  • Milestone moments: If they’ve been with the company for a long time, consider something that acknowledges their contributions over the years. Custom plaques, engraved items, or framed certificates can serve as a keepsake for the employee’s time at the company.
  • Job role influence: For example, if the employee was in a creative role, consider something that complements their creativity (like high-quality notebooks, art supplies, or a subscription to a creative platform). A tech-oriented employee might appreciate the latest gadget or a gift card to a tech store.

Gift Value And Budget Considerations

  • Price point: The value of the gift should match the employee’s role and the company culture. A highly valued team member might deserve something more substantial, while a coworker you’ve worked with for a short time may be best honored with a smaller, yet still meaningful, gift.
  • Group gifting: If the company is pooling resources for a farewell gift, this could allow for a higher-end item, like a weekend getaway or a premium experience. Just make sure that everyone is comfortable with the contribution.

Sentimental Or Practical?

  • Sentimental gifts: These could be items like a memory scrapbook, a framed team photo, or a personalized item that ties into a shared experience at work. These types of gifts express your appreciation in a very heartfelt, personal way.
  • Practical gifts: If the employee is moving to a new role or city, practical gifts such as gift cards, travel accessories, or office tools (think quality pens or planners) can go a long way.

How To Learn What Someone Really Wants

The best way to find the perfect gift is to actually know what the recipient would appreciate. While a little bit of guesswork can be fun, ensuring your gift is something the person truly wants or needs is key to making it meaningful.

Here’s how to figure out what they’ll love:

Pay Attention To What They Say

  • Employees often drop hints about things they want or need in casual conversations. For instance, they may mention something they’ve been eyeing at a store, something they need for their new job, or something they enjoy doing outside work. These off-hand comments could serve as clues to the ideal gift.
  • If the person has recently shared personal stories, like an upcoming trip, new hobby, or house move, you can use that as a basis for your gift selection.

Ask Subtly

  • Don’t hesitate to ask other coworkers, friends, or even the person directly (without giving away your intentions). For example, you can ask, ’I’ve been thinking of getting you something special for your farewell. Do you have any favorites or things you”ve had your eye on recently”? It’s all about keeping the surprise element while still getting an idea of what they want.

Look At Their Workspace

  • Often, an employee’s workspace is a reflection of their personality and preferences. If they have a collection of items that reflect their interests (sports memorabilia, plants, books), these could provide some great inspiration.
  • Additionally, if their workspace feels a bit bare or impersonal, they might appreciate something that makes it more comfortable, like a plant, desk organizer, or personal décor.

Consider What They Will Need After Leaving

  • If you know they’re moving on to a new role or a different city, practical items like travel gear, a high-quality bag, or professional tools (like a stylish briefcase or wireless charger) could be both thoughtful and functional.
  • A personalized gift card to a favorite restaurant or store they’ve mentioned could also be a great way to help them start their next chapter.

Top Gift-Giving Errors To Watch Out For

Even with the best intentions, sometimes gift-giving can go wrong. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

Personal Gifts That Cross The Line

  • While it’s tempting to get something ultra-personal (like perfume or clothing), be careful. You may misread someone’s preferences or sensitivities. Personal gifts that are too intimate could make the recipient uncomfortable, especially if you don’t know them well enough.

Overly Expensive Or Lavish Gifts

  • Giving something that’s too expensive might create an uncomfortable power dynamic, especially in a professional setting. The employee may feel awkward or pressured by the grand gesture, and it could be seen as over-the-top. Aim for a gift that’s thoughtful and meaningful, not necessarily costly.

Generic, Impersonal Gifts

  • Don’t fall into the trap of getting a gift that feels like it could apply to anyone. Generic office gifts like a plain mug, mass-produced tote bag, or a generic pen set can easily miss the mark. Employees want to feel appreciated as individuals, so make the effort to find something that’s tailored to them.

Gifts That Could Be Seen As "Passive-Aggressive"

  • Avoid gifts that could potentially send the wrong message, like a company-branded item if the person is leaving on negative terms or something that could feel more like a jab than a gift. Remember that the goal is to leave them feeling appreciated and positive about their time with you.

Forgetting A Card

  • A heartfelt, handwritten note can make even a modest gift feel more meaningful. Don’t skip this part! A card with personal messages from colleagues, expressing gratitude and sharing positive memories, can leave a lasting impact.

Best Places To Shop For Gifts

Now that you know what to look for, let’s talk about where to find the best farewell gifts. There’s no shortage of places to shop, whether you prefer online or in-person. Here’s where you can find the perfect farewell present:

Online Stores

  • Etsy: Perfect for handmade, unique, or personalized gifts. Whether it’s a custom piece of art, a personalized mug, or an engraved bracelet, Etsy is a goldmine for one-of-a-kind items.
  • Amazon: If you’re short on time, Amazon offers a huge variety of gifts, from tech gadgets to decor and everything in between. Look for items with high ratings and good reviews to ensure quality.
  • UncommonGoods: Known for quirky and unique gifts, this site offers a wide variety of creative items, including personalized gifts, tech gadgets, and items for hobbies.

Local Shops

  • Specialty Stores: For a more personalized touch, check out local artisan shops, bookstores, or local florists. Local businesses often have high-quality, unique items that can make for thoughtful gifts.
  • Experience Providers: If you’re thinking about giving the gift of an experience-like tickets to a concert, cooking class, or wine tasting-local providers can often offer custom packages.

Subscription Services

  • Subscription Boxes: Consider giving the gift of a subscription box that suits their interests. Whether they’re into books (Book of the Month), gourmet food (Goldbelly), or self-care (FabFitFun), there’s a box for every interest.
  • Digital Subscriptions: If the employee loves streaming, gaming, or learning, consider gifting a subscription to platforms like Netflix, Spotify, MasterClass, or Audible.

Personalized Gift Sites

  • Personalization Mall: For personalized gifts such as engraved pens, custom jewelry, or framed art, this site is a great option to find something that feels custom-made.
  • Things Remembered: Known for high-quality engraving services, they offer a wide range of items from glassware to jewelry that can be personalized to create a truly unique gift.

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