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Highlights

1. Regular and meaningful recognition, beyond annual gifts, is crucial for maintaining motivation.

2. Personalized gifts to employees' interests can create lasting memories.

3. While gifts are appreciated anytime, they are particularly impactful during special occasions.

4. Gifts should not be used to avoid addressing deeper employee issues or as a substitute for fair pay and daily recognition.

A survey reveals that companies focusing on employee appreciation see a 56% reduction in workers' likelihood of seeking new job opportunities. Employees are the heart of your company. They bring energy, creativity, and profits every day.

So, how can you show them genuine appreciation? A $10 Starbucks gift card once a year doesn't quite cut it, especially for those who don’t drink coffee.

That’s why HR teams always think about meaningful ways to say "thank you." In this guide, we've gathered 35 best gift items for workers, sorted by low, mid, and high price ranges. We’ll even discuss sustainable options.

Why Employee Appreciation Matters?

A study reveals that 91% of HR professionals believe recognition and rewards positively impact employee retention.

Everyone likes to feel noticed and valued at work and in life. It’s tough to stay motivated when your efforts go unnoticed. An employee appreciation gift can be a key part of your overall strategy to show you care.

Of course, a gift once a year isn’t a substitute for fair pay, good benefits, and daily recognition. Effective recognition should be timely, specific, frequent, visible, inclusive, and based on your company’s values. 

Still, thoughtful, personalized gift items for workers are a great way to show employees you appreciate them. It can create lasting memories or serve as a physical reminder of your care that they can cherish.

When Employee Appreciation Gifts Are Most Welcome?

Employees love being appreciated anytime, but some moments are particularly good for giving gifts.

Employee Appreciation Day, the first Friday in March is a natural time to show extra love. Year-end holidays or after finishing a big project are also perfect opportunities to say thanks with a gift.

However, avoid using gifts to sidestep tough conversations or patch bigger employee issues. They lose their true value when gifts are a bribe or an apology.

Lower Cost Gift Items for Workers

1. An Extra Day Off 

Giving your employees a bonus day off is an easy and popular gift. It doesn't cost much besides the missed day of work. Plus, paid time off boosts employee well-being, making your team more engaged in the long run.

2. Grocery Gift Cards 

A grocery gift card can help with an extra shopping trip, a holiday meal, or a pizza night at home. You can spend as much or as little on this gift. For an eco-friendly option, consider Whole Foods gift cards made from recycled paper.

3. Support Their Interests

Here's a fun idea: go on Etsy and search for items related to any TV show, book, comic, or movie. You'll find custom portraits, mugs, candles, and more! This activity helps you pick out meaningful gifts for your team members. For example, consider a "Great British Bake Off" apron for any star bakers in your group!

4. Handwritten Notes

This idea is almost free, but writing a note of appreciation shows you truly value your team's efforts. Be sure to include specific and meaningful praise.

5. Piñata

Let your employees reconnect with their inner child! Imagine the fun of getting a piñata in the mail, filled with candy and appreciation for a job well done. Piñatagrams offer options like unicorns, reindeer, and even zombies!

6. Fidget Toys

Everyone can use a fidget toy to help get through long Zoom meetings. There are endless choices, so find something fun for your team.

7. Desk Accessories

How about a foot hammock? For just $15, your employees can enjoy extra comfort while working. A cable organizer can help create a clutter-free, peaceful workspace for your work from home job stars.

8. State Candles

Gift a candle that represents your company's home state. The scented candle smells like spruce, cedar, sandalwood, and a hint of cinnamon. 

Mid-Price Gift Items for Workers

9. Cash 

First on our mid-price list is the classic gift of cold hard cash. Everyone appreciates extra money, and it's a great option if you work at a large company and want a gift that's fair and easy to distribute.

10. Subscription Box

Bonus points if it matches the employee's personality! A subscription box covers almost everything, including meat, international foods, and a Bulb of the Month club. Choose one that fits each employee’s interests for a gift that keeps giving. 

11. Houseplants 

For the green thumbs or aspiring gardeners in your office, houseplants from Bloomscape or Amazon make great gifts. Some planters even have fun puns! Studies show plants can reduce stress and boost productivity, so it’s a win-win.

12. DIY Craft Kits

For the crafty types, consider a knitting, embroidery, or crochet kit. The options online are endless! How about a pottery kit for your planter or a needle felting kit for cozy projects?

13. Cookbook

For the cooks on your team, a good cookbook is always appreciated. Try "New World Sourdough" for bakers, "Salt Fat Acid Heat" for beginners, or Julia Child’s classic "Mastering the Art of French Cooking" for the traditionalists.

14. Self-Care Kit

Your employees could probably use some relaxation. Create your self-care kits or buy pre-packaged ones. 

15. Headspace Subscription 

Promoting mindfulness in the workplace is a great way to boost morale. A Headspace for Work subscription can help employees stay motivated and show appreciation for their hard work.

16. National Parks Annual Pass 

Encourage your employees to explore the great outdoors with a National Parks pass. For $80, they get access to beautiful parks across the country. Sweeten the deal by offering a day off to enjoy the fresh air and stunning views.

17. Picnic Basket

A picnic basket is a perfect gift, something your employees might not buy for themselves but would love to use. Fill it with shelf-stable goodies to make it ready for the lawn.

18. Movie Night Kit

Put together everything needed for a perfect home movie night: popcorn, candy, and maybe even a cozy pair of slippers. If DIY isn’t your thing, plenty of pre-made kits are available.

High-Price Gift Items for Workers

19. Massage

Treat your employees to relaxation with a SpaFinder or Groupon gift card so they can book a massage at their convenience.

20. Classes

 How about a mixology class? This option offers many possibilities based on what your employees like and their location. Check out craft, cooking, or mixology classes in your area for a fun gift.

21. Espresso Machine 

Instead of just a coffee gift card, why not go big with an espresso machine? It’s a great gift for coffee lovers!

22. Pasta Maker

Imagine the homemade pasta your employees could whip up with this gift. From Alfredo to lasagna, the possibilities are endless!

23. Cleaning Services 

A clean home can boost mental health for those working from home or busy. Give the gift of a tidy space with a local cleaning service gift card.

24. Digital Photo Frame 

This is perfect for someone whose desk is covered in photos of loved ones. A digital photo frame lets them display all their favorite memories in one place.

Are you an employee searching for the perfect local employment opportunities or an employer ready to post jobs for free and attract top talent? Yulys is here to make your job search effortless and effective! Join us today and experience a smarter, simpler way to find and offer jobs!

Summary

Showing appreciation through gift items for workers can significantly boost their motivation and job satisfaction. While these gifts are a great way to say thanks, they should be part of a larger effort that includes fair pay and daily recognition. Whether you choose something small and practical or a more generous gift, what matters most is that it genuinely reflects your gratitude and care.