Christmas Gifts for Colleagues
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Quick answer: Christmas Gifts for Colleagues. This guide gives 17 ideas in 4 sections: Sharing treats for the whole team; Useful desk extras; Cosy mug moments; For your boss or a special colleague. Budget: Mostly £2 to £10 each. Best for: Teams, desk neighbours and bosses.
- Time: 15 minutes to choose
- Budget: Mostly £2 to £10 each
- Best for: Teams, desk neighbours and bosses
The office kitchen in December has a particular kind of magic: someone has brought in a tin of biscuits, the printer has stopped working, and everyone is suddenly very friendly.
Colleague gifts should be small, kind and easy to hand over. This guide covers treats for the whole team, useful desk extras, cosy mug-based gifts and a few ways to keep things fair and affordable when there are lots of people to buy for.
Top tip: Agree a team spending limit early, such as £5 per person, so no one feels awkward. If you are buying for the whole team, choose one item that suits everyone rather than lots of different ones.
Sharing treats for the whole team
Food that is easy to share is the safest choice, as long as you keep dietary needs in mind.
- Biscuit selection box: A box of mixed biscuits sits happily on a desk or in the kitchen. Choose a selection with some vegetarian options and keep the packaging so people can check the ingredients.
- Chocolate tin: Individually wrapped chocolates are easy to share and keep clean at a desk. Nut-free varieties help include everyone.
- Fruit and nut mix: A bag of dried fruit suits people who prefer less sweet treats. Check allergy labels, particularly where nuts are included.
- Advent-style mini treats: Hand out a small wrapped chocolate on each desk over the week before the break. It costs little and boosts the mood.
- Tea assortment: A box of speciality teas suits a mixed team. Add a few decaffeinated options for people who avoid caffeine.
Useful desk extras
These are small gifts that get used all year, and they are excellent for a Secret Santa.
- Notebook: A neat hardback notebook is always useful for meetings. A plain cover suits everyone and costs very little.
- Pen set: A pack of smooth gel pens is a small, inexpensive treat. Pick a colour set for the creative team members.
- Desk plant: A small succulent in a pot brightens a workspace. Choose a hardy variety that copes with erratic watering.
- Sticky note set: Fun shapes and colours make planning pleasant. Great for the colleague who has everything colour-coded.
- Cable tidy: A simple set of cable ties or clips solves a very common problem. Practical, cheap and strangely loved.
Cosy mug moments
The mug is the unofficial uniform of the modern office, so a mug-based gift never fails.
- Insulated travel mug: A leak-proof travel mug keeps drinks warm during a commute. Pick a neutral design that suits anyone.
- Hot chocolate and mug set: A mug filled with sachets of hot chocolate and mini marshmallows makes a fast gift. Wrap in cellophane with a ribbon.
- Mug warmer: A small warmer keeps a drink hot during long meetings. Follow the instructions and switch off at the end of the day.
- Coffee sachets: A small box of single-serve coffees helps with early starts. Include a few caffeine-free options.
For your boss or a special colleague
- Desk calendar: A good quality desk calendar is a gift that gets used all year. Choose a plain, practical layout.
- Card with a note: A simple card with a sincere note about what you appreciate costs almost nothing and means a great deal.
- Hand cream: A small tube suits dry winter hands and any desk drawer. Pick fragrance-free if you are not sure of tastes.
Helpful links and further reading
A few trusted places to find out more.
- Royal Mail at Christmas: Check the latest last posting dates before you send cards or parcels.
- MoneyHelper: budgeting: Free, impartial budgeting tools and tips to plan your spending.
- Citizens Advice: Free, confidential advice if money is tight.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to buy gifts for colleagues?
Not at all. Many offices prefer a card or a team treat. Only give what you are comfortable with.
What should I avoid?
Avoid anything personal, expensive or too clever, and stay away from alcohol, because some colleagues do not drink.
Is Secret Santa a good option?
Yes, it keeps spending low and fair. Set a limit and a date and share a simple wish list if needed.
More ideas you might like
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