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We’ve all had nice bosses, and we often have the urge to Google “gifts for your boss” and buy what Google suggests to show how much we appreciate them. It’s a tricky terrain since we don’t want them to think we are overly eager, or that we are crossing a boundary or that we’re a suck up. But don’t let any of that deter you from giving your boss a gift. They’re also human and would surely appreciate you taking the time to look for a gift they would like.
Here are some tips on gifts for your boss that will not backfire on you.
1. Know their Preference
There is an episode of Brooklyn 9-9 where Captain Raymond Holt specifically mentioned to his detectives that he doesn’t accept gifts of any kind, particularly gifts that have monetary value. If your boss is specific and mentioned this beforehand, respect their decision and preference. If, however, they don’t have a no-gift policy, pay close attention to their likes and dislikes. A gift that is within their interests will come across as a thoughtful gift.
2. Keep it Professional
Gifts for your boss that they can use in the office are safe bets. Avoid giving gifts that are overly personal or intimate gifts.
3. Set a Budget
Set a budget and stick to it. Don’t buy gifts for your boss that are expensive since it will make them uncomfortable and question your reason for giving them a gift. Generally, mid-range priced items are acceptable as professional gifts. Think of how much you would want to spend on a gift for a colleague and add a little bit more if it’s for your boss.
4. Consider Practicality
Think of gifts that they can use in their daily work life. Gifts that are practical instead of novelty will be appreciated more because of their usefulness. You wouldn’t want your gift to collect dust at the bottom of your boss’ drawer, so give them something they can use. Bonus point if it’s something they’ve been meaning to buy for themselves.
5. Personalize Thoughtfully
Adding a personal touch, such as getting their initials engraved on a cufflink or their name monogrammed on a pen, is a personal touch that’s not over the top. It shows effort without being excessive.
6. Avoid Personal Gifts
Gifts such as perfume, jewelry, or clothes can be considered as personal gifts and must be avoided as gifts for your boss. These items show you have a personal relationship with the recipient since you know their clothes size. Stick to neutral gifts. As a rule of thumb, put yourself in the recipient’s shoes. If you feel uncomfortable receiving jewelry from your boss, they will feel uncomfortable too if the tables have been turned.
7. Focus on Quality
Quality over quantity when giving someone a gift (not just your boss). Instead of buying several lower-quality gifts, buy one that’s high quality and can be used for a long time. Besides, your boss is often used to the finer things in life and would appreciate a high-quality (not necessarily expensive) gift.
8. Seek Subtlety
Avoid giving flashy and flamboyant gifts. Stick to subtle and understated gifts.
9. Be Mindful of Company Policies
Aside from knowing whether your boss has a gift policy, it’s also ideal to know whether the company has some policies about the number of gifts an employee can give or receive. Knowing about this beforehand can ensure that there will be no issues for you or your boss in the future.
10. Consider Experiences Rather than Material Gifts
When giving your boss a gift, you shouldn’t be limited to material gifts. Consider gifting them experiences such as tickets to a play, gift cards to a nice restaurant or a subscription to a professional magazine.
Leather Notebook
A high-quality leather notebook is a simple yet practical gift that you can give your boss. It’s perfect for jotting down notes during meetings or keeping track of important tasks for ongoing projects. This refillable notebook also has a pen loop to always have a pen handy. Made from cowhide leather, the technique used to make this notebook includes vegetable tanning method leaving each piece with a different pattern. It’s a unique and one-of-a-kind leather notebook for a one-of-a-kind boss.
Gourmet Coffee Set
If your boss is a coffee lover, they might appreciate this gourmet coffee set. Organic medium roast coffee beans from Peru, Colombia, Guatemala, Mexico and Brazil, every cup is a different coffee experience. Now, every morning at the office feels like a culinary expedition. You’re not just giving them coffee, you’re giving them an experience.
Desk Plant
A low maintenance desk plant, such as succulents can brighten up your boss’ workplace without them having to worry about keeping it alive. Plants are known to improve mood and productivity, making this a thoughtful and practical gift.
Wireless Charging Station
If your boss is always on the go, chances are there will be times when they forget to charge their phones, or smartwatch, or air pods. Be the hero they need by giving them a wireless charging station where they can effortlessly charge all their gadgets before their next call. Just make sure to purchase a charging station that’s compatible with your boss’ gadgets.
Ballpoint Pen
Give them the pen that will sign your promotion letter or salary increment letter! A pen is a practical gift to any boss because of its functionality and symbol of professionalism. It’s a gift that they will always use. This Waterman pen in blue ink comes in a gift box so you can give it as it is without having to worry about gift wrap.
Travel Mug
A travel mug is perfect for a boss who’s always on the go. Choose one that is insulated and that keeps beverages hot or cold for hours like this one from Hydroflask. With its TempShield insulation, their beverage will remain cold for 24 hours or hot for 12 hours. It’s also BPA and toxin free and made of stainless steel for a taste and flavor free transfer.
Office Decor
Consider tasteful office decor to enhance your boss’ workspace. Choose items that are functional yet aesthetically pleasing. These bookends from the Agirlgle Store have a modern geometric design that will bright up any bookshelf. Made of heavy-duty steel, these bookends can help keep your boss’ industry-related books organized.
