Updated: January 20, 2023

31 Top Gifts for Bosses to Buy for Managers in 2023

You found our list of the best gifts for bosses.

Gifts for bosses are presents you can give your employer or manager. Examples include gift cards, office accessories, and leadership books. The purpose of these gifts is to express your gratitude for their efforts and leadership or celebrate milestones.

These ideas are examples of work from home giftsemployee gifts, and boss day gifts.

This article contains:

  • unique gift for bosses
  • Christmas gifts for bosses
  • farewell gifts for bosses
  • thank you gifts for bosses
  • expensive gifts for bosses
  • thoughtful gifts for bosses

Here we go!

Personalized Gifts for Bosses

An ideal present would show consideration but is also suitable for a business setting. The gift you choose can also strengthen your relationship with your boss and improve your professional development. If you want to show your employer your appreciation, then you can consider one of these personalized gifts.

1. A Planner or Journal

You can help your boss stay organized and on top of their tasks with a personalized planner or journal. Many options are available, from fancy leather-bound versions to simple and functional designs. You will find journals with plenty of space for notes and appointments, or you could choose a more creative design like a dry-erase board.

Check out a productivity planner.

2. Business Cards

High-quality business cards can help your boss make a great impression at networking events or meetings. A great choice would have thick card stock and elegant designs.

Check out business cards.

3. A Desk Accessory

Customizable and magnetized wooden paperweight Office image 1

A custom nameplate or paperweight is a great way to give your boss a touch of personality on their desk. When choosing a customized accessory, look for options that match your boss’s style and interests. You will make your boss’s day by giving them a luxurious set of desk accessories to show your appreciation. You can consider alternatives in leather or marble, or choose a one-of-a-kind item like a desk organizer built from recyclable materials.

Check out desk accessories.

4. A Plant

This gift idea is a great way to give your boss a touch of personality and greenery on their desk. When picking plants, be sure to consider your boss’s office lighting conditions.

Get gift plants.

5. Wood Art Print

This beautiful print makes for a unique and thoughtful gift. You will get a print on a thin, semi-flexible piece of maple wood veneer that is perfect for framing. You can get this style in three different dimensions. No two pieces will appear exactly alike due to the inherent variation in wood grain, but this feature further distinguishes your thoughtfulness in selecting this present for your superior.

Check out this wood art print.

6. Acrylic Wall Plaque

Custom Acrylic Sign Acrylic Door Sign Acrylic Office Sign image 1

Wall plaques made of acrylic, a kind of plastic recognized for its durability and transparency, are a popular form of wall decoration. This item can be decorative or display informational or promotional materials. Whether you want to impress or thank your employer, this personalized photo acrylic plaque is a perfect choice.

Check out the acrylic wall plaque.

7. A Lumbar Throw Pillow

Snowman Family Personalized Lumbar Throw Pillow For Company Member

If you are looking for nice Christmas gifts for bosses that will cushion your coworker’s back, then consider this soft monogrammed lumbar throw pillow. This one-of-a-kind throw cushion is a thoughtful and long-lasting gift.

Check out lumbar throw pillows.

8. Boss Lady Christmas Ornament

Elegant Chef Boss Lady Christmas Ornament

An old-fashioned Christmas ornament will wow your employer with its refinement and beauty. This item looks lovely when grouped with other decorations on a wall during the holiday season. This ornament is perfect for decorating a Christmas tree, door, window, or any other part of the home during the holidays.

Check out this boss lady Christmas ornament.

Gift Cards

Gift cards may seem impersonal, but they can actually be great thank you gifts for bosses. Here are some ideas to consider.

1. A Fancy Dinner or a Cooking Class

If your boss is a foodie, then a gift card for a cooking class could be the perfect gift. You can treat your boss to a fancy dinner with a gift card or by paying for the experience outright. This idea is a great way to show appreciation and allow your boss to relax and enjoy themselves. You can look for options that match their interests and taste preferences. To make your gift extra special, consider pairing it with a nice bottle of wine or a set of fancy utensils.

2. A Day at the Spa

A gift card for a day at the spa can help your boss relax and unwind. The spa gift card can cover options like massages, facials, or manicures to help your boss pamper themselves.

3. A Local Attraction or Activity

If your boss is a fan of local attractions or activities, then a gift card for an activity like a museum visit, a round of golf, or a wine tasting could be the perfect gift. You can explore options in your area that match your boss’s interests, and if you are unsure, you can always ask.

4. A Local Gym or Fitness Class

If your boss is into fitness, then a gift card for a local gym or fitness class could be the perfect gift. You could choose options like yoga, spin class, or weightlifting.

5. A Professional Development Course or Seminar

You can help your boss continue to grow and learn in their career with a gift card for a professional development course or seminar. For a personal touch, try finding options that match their interests and career goals.

Check out the best virtual gift cards to send coworkers.

Thoughtful Gifts for Bosses

Practical gifts tend to get good reception, especially if they make your boss’s job easier or more efficient. Here are some thoughtful gift ideas to consider.

1. A High-Quality Coffee or Tea Set

Many bosses are coffee or tea lovers, so a high-quality set could be the perfect gift. You can consider options like a French press, pour-over set, or fancy teapot and cups.

Check out tea sets.

2. A Nice Set of Office Supplies

Whether your boss is a stationery fanatic or just needs some new supplies to freshen up their desk, a nice set of office supplies could be the perfect gift. You can find options like a fancy pen holder, a leather notebook, or a desk organizer. If your boss is a writer or loves to jot down notes, then a nice set of pens or a fountain pen could be the perfect gift. High-quality brands like Montblanc or Cross are great options.

Check out office supplies.

3. Luggage or Travel Accessories

If your boss is a frequent traveler, then a nice luggage set or a travel accessory could be the perfect gift. A high-quality carry-on or a portable luggage scale can help your boss make the most of their travels. This option is one of the best farewell gifts for bosses.

Check out travel accessories.

4. Golf Clubs

If your boss is a golf fan, then a nice set of clubs or a gift card for a round of golf is a great choice. You can find options from several high-quality brands. If you have the budget, then consider pairing the gift with a nice golf bag or a set of golf balls.

Check out golf clubs.

5. Birthstone Necklace

Birthstone Necklace

Seeing your boss use a gift you got them can be heartwarming, so consider gifting them jewelry. This necklace has an exquisite raw gemstone hand wrapped in sterling silver to form the pendant. The chain comes in either rose gold, silver, or gold.

Explore birthstone necklaces.

6. A Book on Leadership or Personal Development

These books can help your boss continue to grow and improve as a leader. Countless options are available, from classic works like The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People to more modern offerings like Radical Candor.

Check out leadership and personal development books.

7. A High-Quality Coffee or Espresso Machine

Many bosses are coffee lovers, so good coffee or espresso could be the perfect gift. You can get coffee makers from top brands like Keurig or Nespresso, and consider pairing the present with gourmet coffee beans or syrup flavors.

Check out coffee machines.

8. A Fancy Bottle of Wine or a Craft Beer Set

An expensive bottle of wine or a variety of handcrafted beers might be the ideal present for your employer if they enjoy alcoholic beverages. You can choose from selections produced by reputable wineries or breweries and consider including a fine set of glasses or a beer opener to round off the present.

Check out this craft beer set.

9. A Set of Nice Coasters or a Drinkware Set

This gift idea can help your boss help them maintain an orderly workspace or attractive home bar. For a truly one-of-a-kind piece, you can explore several designs and material choices, such as marble, wood, and even etched glass.

Check out drinkware sets.

10. High-Quality Office Headphones

The best expensive gifts for boss: Bose noise cancelling headphones

You can gift a good workplace headset as a present if your boss is often on conference calls or could use some quiet time to get work done. You can consider noise-canceling headphones that block out ambient noise and are comfy to use for extended periods.

Check out noise-cancelling headphones.

11. Unique Desk Lamps

​You can give your boss a boost of light and character by giving them a pair of stylish desk lights or a one-of-a-kind lamp. You may choose a lamp built from conventional materials, like wood or metal, or you can go for a unique design, like one constructed from recycled materials.

Check out unique desk lamps.

12. Office Furniture or a Home Office Accessory

If your boss needs some new office furniture or wants to upgrade their home office, then this idea could be the perfect gift. You could get wood or metal furniture or go for a more unique design, like a standing desk or ergonomic chair.

Check out office furniture.

13. A Charitable Donation

If your boss is a philanthropist or values giving back to the community, then consider making a charitable donation in their name. This donation could be to a nonprofit organization your employer supports or a cause that aligns with their values.

Expensive gifts for bosses

If you want to give your boss an expensive gift, then here are a few ideas that might fit the bill.

1. Premium Classic Watch

Legends Were Born Luxury Men's Watch for Boss

If your boss enjoys wearing watches, then consider buying one as a present. For traditionalist employers, you cannot go wrong with a pricey classic watch. The benefit of giving a classic watch to a boss as a costly present is they cannot have too many of them.

Check out this premium classic watch.

2. Smart Mug with Temperature Control

This mug is unique and has many potential applications in the workplace, particularly during the colder months. The mug allows users to heat their drink to their preferred temperature and maintain it for hours. This feature enables busy folks to make their drink anytime without worrying about reheating. These rare mugs make for one of the best thank you gifts for bosses.

Check out smart mugs with temperature control.

3. Sunglasses

Sunglasses come in various designs and styles. All you need to do is choose a well-known brand to give a thoughtful present. Since individuals have different preferences for eyewear, you may get your employer a gift certificate to an optician to let them pick out their preferred pair. If your boss spends a lot of time outside in the sun or behind the wheel, then a nice pair of branded sunglasses would be a great pricey present.

Check out sunglasses.

4. Suit Accessory Pack

Premium Men’s Gift Tie Set Silky Necktie Pocket Squares Tie Clips Cufflinks For Men

An expensive set of suit accessories, including a tie, cufflinks, a tie pin, and a brooch, is a great option as a present for a boss who works in a more formal atmosphere. This set is usable at the office and other formal events.

Check out this suit accessory pack.

5. Mini PuriCare System

Gifting your boss a portable air purifier like the LG PuriCare Mini so they can breathe easier wherever they go is a kind gesture they will appreciate any time of year. This lightweight device includes a twin inverter motor and ultra-fine particle filter to provide strong airflow while weighing in at a little over a pound. In addition, the device has a companion screen that shows air quality and the filter state. The primary features include a rechargeable battery that lasts up to eight hours and a sleek shoulder strap for transport.

Check out the mini PuriCare system.

6. Back Massager with Heat

Back problems are common among office workers, whether working from home or the workplace. With this back massager, you can relieve the strain of sitting in front of a screen all day, which combines deep-tissue massage movements and heat to relax your muscles.

Check out the back massager with heat.

Important Points to Consider When Choosing a Gift for Bosses

The following are a few general tips to keep in mind when selecting a gift for your boss.

1. Consider Personal Interests and Preferences

You should take the time to get to know your boss and what they enjoy, whether it is a particular hobby or a favorite type of food or drink. This step will help you select a gift that will truly speak to your boss and show that you took the time to get to know them.

2. Avoid Gifts That Are Too Personal or Inappropriate

While you want to show your appreciation for your boss, it is advisable to avoid gifts that are too personal or inappropriate. These gifts include items like clothing or jewelry that could pass as overly intimate or gifts that are too expensive or lavish for your workplace setting.

3. Do Not Go Overboard

It is important to show appreciation for your boss, but you do not want to come across as sucking up or trying too hard. You should avoid going over the top with your gift and keep it professional and appropriate.

4. Consider a Group Gift

If you work in a team, then consider going in together on a gift for your boss. This idea can be a great way to show appreciation and can also make it easier to afford a nicer gift. You can coordinate with your coworkers and ensure they are all on board.

Conclusion

Overall, finding the perfect gift for your boss can be a challenge. Still, with some thought and consideration, you can find an item that shows your appreciation and professionalism. Whether it is a high-quality coffee set, a personalized planner, or a gift card for a local attraction, plenty of options are available to show your boss how much you value their leadership and hard work. No matter what you decide to give, remember to put some serious thought and care into the present.

Next, check out our list of company care package ideas and work anniversary gifts.

FAQ: Gifts for bosses

Here are some frequently asked questions about gifts for bosses.

What are good gifts for bosses?

Many different gifts can be suitable for bosses, depending on your relationship with them and their personal preferences. A personalized gift, such as a monogrammed item or a custom-made piece of art, can be a thoughtful and unique present. A gift card to a local coffee shop, restaurant, or bookstore can be a practical and appreciated gift, especially if your boss enjoys spending their downtime at these places.

What should you give your boss for Christmas?

A gift that promotes wellness, such as a fitness tracker or a massage gift certificate, can be a great way to show you care about your boss’s well-being. You can also present Christmas ornaments for decorative purposes.

Is it ok to give gifts to bosses?

Giving gifts to your boss is generally acceptable, especially around the holidays or on special occasions such as birthdays or work anniversaries. However, it is important to keep company gift-giving policies in mind and not overstep any boundaries or appear to try to curry favor.

If you are unsure about whether to give a gift to your boss, then you could try asking colleagues or your HR department for guidance.

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Author:

People & Culture Director at teambuilding.com.
Grace is the Director of People & Culture at TeamBuilding. She studied Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University, Information Science at East China Normal University and earned an MBA at Washington State University.

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