Thoughtful Thank You Gifts for Co-Workers That Aren’t Boring (or Awkward)
Let’s be honest: thanking a co-worker can be weird.
You want to show appreciation, but you also don’t want it to feel forced, over the top, or like you’re trying too hard. Whether it’s for covering a shift, helping with a nightmare project, or just being that calming presence in the chaos of your 9-to-5. Thank you gifts for colleagues can go a long way in building trust and boosting morale.
But what makes a good thank-you gift for a co-worker?
1. Keep It Personal - but Not Too Personal
Unless you're HR gifting a branded mug (please don’t), the best gifts are thoughtful, a little fun, and just personal enough to show you made an effort.
One of our favourites? Our ceramic heart keepsake that reads:
"Chance made us colleagues, but the fun and laughter made us friends."
It’s the perfect desk memento or small gift that says, you matter, without making things awkward. Pair it with a sweet treat or a handwritten card, and you're golden.
You can see it here.
2. Bring on the Banter
Office friendships are built on shared pain - like the printer jamming again, or surviving back-to-back meetings with no caffeine. So why not lean into the humour?
Our "Smells Like Betrayal" candle is the perfect tongue-in-cheek gift for a colleague who's abandoning you for greener pastures. It literally says:
"Can’t believe you’re leaving us."
It’s funny, slightly dramatic, and just sentimental enough to make them feel missed (but not too missed).
And yes - we also do a candle version of the keepsake quote above, for those who like a little fragrance with their friendship.
3. Don’t Underestimate the Power of Scent & Snacks
Candles, coffee, cookies - if it delights the senses and lives on their desk, it’s a solid gift. Think cosy over corporate. You’re aiming for “I saw this and thought of you,” not “I panicked and bought this five minutes ago.”
4. A Card Still Goes a Long Way
Even if the gift is small, a handwritten card saying why you're thankful is everything. Whether it’s “you saved me from screaming into a spreadsheet” or “your playlists got me through the week,” it’s the words that stay with people.
💡 Looking for more thank-you gift inspiration?
Check out The Ultimate Guide to Thank You Gifts for Every Occasion – from co-workers and clients to teachers, neighbours, and lifelong friends, we’ve got ideas for every kind of “thanks.”
Because finding the right words can be hard. Finding the right gift? That’s where we come in.
View the full range of thank you gifts.
