Holiday Gifting at Work: Simple, Thoughtful, and Inclusive Ideas
The holidays are a time for gratitude and connection, but let’s be honest—figuring out how to handle workplace gifting can feel like a puzzle.
What are the best employee gift ideas?
Should you give your boss a gift?
How do you find the right balance with coworker gifts?
What’s appropriate and how much should you spend?
How do you make it meaningful without it becoming awkward?
And as a leader, how do you ensure your gift feels thoughtful and inclusive, not transactional?
I’ve wrestled with these questions myself over the years, but one story stands out as a turning point in how I think about gifting at work.
It all started with bacon.
Several years ago, I was attending a breakfast event organized by my team. Everything was perfectly organized except for one small detail—no bacon. In a lighthearted moment, I casually mentioned to a team member, “I wish there was bacon.” I thought nothing of it.
Fast forward a month, and at the next breakfast, I was greeted with a monumental tray of bacon. My casual comment had been taken as a directive, and the team had gone above and beyond to deliver.
It was funny, but it also left me uneasy. I hadn’t realized how much weight my words carried as a leader. What I intended as a passing remark had created a sense of pressure I never meant to impose.
To turn the moment into something positive, I decided to commemorate it with humor—and gratitude. That year, I made bacon-themed ornaments for the team, as a way of saying, “I see you, and I appreciate you.”
It also got me thinking about workplace gifting more broadly. How do we, as leaders, approach gifting in a way that is thoughtful, inclusive, and free from obligation? And how can we use gifting as an opportunity to strengthen relationships, rather than add stress?
The Challenge of Workplace Gifting
Holiday gifting at work is uniquely tricky. It’s easy to overthink:
How do you find small gifts for coworkers that feel meaningful without being awkward? How do you show appreciation without creating a sense of obligation?
How do you ensure your gift is thoughtful and inclusive for everyone on your team?
And when it comes to your manager, should I give my boss a gift, or is that unnecessary?
After years of trial and error, I’ve found that gifting doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is to focus on what matters: thoughtfulness, simplicity, and gratitude.
Three Rules for Thoughtful Holiday Gifting
Here’s the framework I follow:
1. Start with the Story
The best employee gift ideas are those that carry meaning. They don’t need to be expensive or elaborate—they just need to show thought and connection.
For me, the bacon ornaments tied humor, gratitude, and learning into a single gesture. Your gift might be different, but the principle is the same. Think back on the year. Was there a memorable moment that brought your team together, made you laugh, or highlighted your shared values? A gift tied to that experience can make a big impact.
2. Keep It Neutral and Inclusive
Not everyone celebrates the same way during the holidays, so it’s important to choose gifts that are season-themed rather than tied to a specific holiday.
Cozy treats like hot cocoa kits, candles, or a tin of cookies are always safe bets. If you’re a baker, homemade cookies or candy can add a personal touch without being overly complicated. The key is to choose small gifts for coworkers that anyone can enjoy, regardless of their traditions.
3. Make It Simple and Stress-Free
You don’t need to spend hours crafting the perfect gift for it to be meaningful. If making something isn’t your strength, that’s okay. Holiday craft markets and online platforms like Etsy offer great options for thoughtful, affordable employee and coworker gifts. If you are crafty, Pinterest is full of ideas for DIY gifts that don’t require much time or effort.
Remember, the thought is what counts—not the cost or complexity.
Should Employees Give Gifts to Managers?
Here’s my take: Should you give your boss a gift? Employees should never feel obligated to give their managers a gift. That said, a handwritten note can be a thoughtful way to express appreciation without the pressure of reciprocity.
When writing a note to your manager, let your words do the work. You might:
Thank them for their leadership and highlight how it’s made a difference for you.
Reflect on something specific you’ve learned from them this year.
Share how their support has positively impacted your work or growth.
A simple, heartfelt note can leave a lasting impression and is often more meaningful than any physical gift.
What About Gifts for Colleagues?
For colleagues, practical or shared items work well—like a box of treats for everyone to enjoy. If it’s a close colleague, consider going the extra mile with a handwritten note.
Not sure what to write? Here are a few ideas:
Share something specific you appreciated about them this year, such as their collaboration on a project or their ability to bring humor to tough moments.
Recall a memorable moment you shared, like a win you celebrated together or a time they supported you.
Simply thank them for being a great teammate or friend, and let them know they’ve made a difference.
A note doesn’t have to be long—it’s the thought and sincerity that matter.
Gift Ideas to Inspire You
If you’re looking for ideas, here are a few that work well:
Locally sourced or handmade ornaments: A simple and unique way to add a personal touch.
Books: A favorite read from the year, with a note about why you chose it.
Homemade treats: Cookies, candy, or hot cocoa mix in a festive jar.
Seasonal snacks: Tins of popcorn, a festive trail mix, or a box of chocolates.
Shared experiences: A team lunch, an extra afternoon off, or a lighthearted group activity.
Why Gifting Matters
At its heart, gifting is about connection. A thoughtful gift, no matter how small, says:
I see you.
I value what you bring to this team.
I’m grateful for you—not just as a colleague, but as a person.
By focusing on thoughtfulness and inclusivity, you can use gifting as an opportunity to strengthen relationships and create a little extra joy at the end of the year.
The Final Word: A Season for Gratitude
The holidays are a time to reflect, appreciate, and celebrate. Whether it’s through a funny ornament, a homemade treat, or a heartfelt note, the best gifts are those that come with meaning and sincerity.
As I learned from my bacon story, gifting isn’t about perfection—it’s about gratitude. So this year, gift thoughtfully, lead intentionally, and let the spirit of the season shine through.
What’s your approach to holiday gifting at work? Have you had your own “bacon moment”? Share your stories—I’d love to hear them!
You Might Also Like…
Discover the power of structured decision-making for biotech leaders. Use this free Decision Matrix to align teams, clarify priorities, and make confident choices.