6 Appreciation Gifts for Employees To Boost Motivation

When it comes to showing your employees how much you value their hard work and dedication, a simple "thank you" email won’t suffice.

According to a survey by Glassdoor, 81% of employees say they're motivated to work harder when their boss shows appreciation for their work.

To truly convey your gratitude, it's important to find appreciation gifts for employees that not only express appreciation but also spark joy, inspire creativity, and enhance productivity.

From custom socks, to experience-based gifts that expand their horizons, this guide is your go-to for the ultimate employee appreciation gifts that will have your team feeling valued, motivated, and ready to conquer the world.

1. Employee Appreciation Gifts For Their Desks

Desk accessories are the unsung heroes of employee appreciation gift ideas, offering a blend of practicality and personality to every gift.
Personalized desk accessories add charm and functionality.

What could be more fun than personalizing your workspace with decor and functional desk accessories?

Contemporary office environments transcend the traditional desk setup; they can be a space that inspires and nurtures creativity in the workforce.

They are a perfect employee appreciation gift for any team member, enhancing their workspace and showing them that their contributions are valued.

From ergonomic tools that promote health and well-being to personalized stationery that reflects individual style, these little wonders can transform a workspace.

They are a thoughtful way to show recognition and make an employee's day-to-day experience more enjoyable and personalized.

Ergonomic Office Tools

In the modern office, comfort meets productivity with ergonomic office tools.

Think of adjustable standing desks, ergonomic chairs, and keyboards that have the benefits of promoting better posture and reducing the risk of strain injuries.

These are the great employee appreciation gifts that shout, ‘We care about your health!’

Fun and Relaxing Items

All work and no play makes the workplace a dull space, right?

Introduce a vibrant array of fun and relaxing items, ideal for infusing excitement and joy into the daily grind.

Whether it's fidget toys, stress balls, or soothing gadgets, these desk accessories are designed to alleviate stress and nurture our playful side.

Personalized Stationery

Personalized stationery: a simple yet profound idea for employee recognition that turns everyday tools into tokens of appreciation.
Personalized stationery makes everyday tasks special.

Personalized stationery adds a personal touch to the everyday work of your employees.

A planner with their name or a notepad in their favorite color, these little things speak volumes about your appreciation for that person and your interest in their unique organizational style.

After all, who doesn’t like a bit of personalization?

2. Experience-Based Gifts

Gift an experience that embodies employee appreciation and unites the whole team in celebration.
Experience-based gifts offer lasting memories.

Experience-based gifts are great employee appreciation gifts to express your gratitude and recognition for your employees’ contributions.

From Masterclass subscriptions to travel perks, these gifts offer your workforce a world of opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Ready to surprise your employees with experiences they’ll cherish forever?

Here are some experience based employee appreciation gifts:

Classes and Workshops

Empower your workforce with company classes and workshops; create a hub of innovation and skill development.
Classes and workshops encourage continuous learning.

Research shows that continuous learning is key to increased job satisfaction.

Offering classes and workshops, like:

  • language learning subscriptions
  • at-home craft kits
  • book clubs
  • cooking classes

Presents opportunities for skill development through gift-giving while also fostering a love for learning beyond the workplace.

Travel Perks and Getaways

Who wouldn’t love bonus points for a getaway?

Travel perks and getaways are a great way for companies to reward demanding work while giving employees a much-needed break.

Whether it’s urban getaways or wild escapades, these benefits allow your team to forge unforgettable experiences.

Wellness Subscriptions

Show your company's commitment to wellness by appreciating employees with gifts that promote health and happiness.
Wellness subscriptions support employee health.

Health is wealth, and what better way to express your appreciation than through wellness subscriptions?

Here are some wellness-focused employee appreciation gifts that contribute to the success of your organization and employees’ overall job satisfaction and well-being:

  • Gym membership
  • Guided meditation session
  • Yoga classes
  • Healthy meal delivery service
  • Fitness tracker

3. Custom Socks: Personalized Employee Appreciation Gifts

Discover the joy of gifting with Sockrates custom socks, where you can customize every thread to your creative ideas!
Sockrates Custom socks combine comfort, durability and sustainability.

Ever thought of custom socks as an employee appreciation gift?

Sockrates transforms ordinary socks into personalized, sustainable, and durable gifts, setting them apart as a standout choice for employee appreciation.

Sockrates custom socks are not your ordinary socks.

They are high-quality, eco-friendly, and customizable, making them perfect for showing appreciation to employees and boosting team spirit.

Crafted from materials such as eco-luxe wool and organic cotton, these socks reflect our commitment to ethical manufacturing.

The premium Italian materials used ensure that each pair is not only comfortable but also long-lasting.

With our transparent pricing, purchasing these personalized gifts in bulk for your entire team is easy and budget-friendly.

You can also choose options like our custom sock boxes and the ability to ship directly to your employees in custom poly-mailers for a hassle-free gifting solution.

You get to design the perfect gift, and we'll take care of the rest to ensure a memorable and enjoyable unboxing experience for each recipient.

4. Group Activities

Appreciating milestones with company events is the heart of employee recognition and building bonds.
Group activities strengthen team bonds.

Nothing fosters a sense of gratitude and motivation like group activities and events with friends.

Some examples of these shared experiences include:

  • Team outings
  • Office game nights
  • Volunteer activities
  • Team-building exercises
  • Celebrations and parties

These activities strengthen team bonds and create a positive workplace and company culture for every team member.

Here are 3 different ways to celebrate your team’s achievements in a fun and engaging way:

Team Outings and Excursions

Plan a memorable team outing as a token of employee appreciation with these creative ideas that promise fun and camaraderie.
Team outings create unforgettable experiences.

Team excursions, be it a day of rock climbing or an escape room adventure, provide collective experiences that fortify team connections.

They go beyond sheer entertainment, crafting enduring memories that your entire team will value for years to come.

Office Game Nights

Game nights at the office provide a delightful diversion from daily duties.

Engaging in board games and trivia, these lively events do more than lift spirits; they build unity within the team.

After all, a little friendly competition never hurt anyone, right?

Catered Meals and Potlucks

Food has the amazing ability to bring people together, creating bonds and memories that last a lifetime.

Gathering for shared meals or joining in the preparation of food fosters unique bonds and a communal spirit.

More than a simple pause in daily life, catered gatherings, and potluck events embody a collective ritual that strengthens team unity and uplifts spirits.

And let’s be real, who can say no to a good meal?

5. Practical and Time-Saving Gifts

Practical and time-saving gifts are the perfect way to simplify your employees’ daily lives, making them a great gift.

From perks for daily travel to assistance with household tasks, these thoughtful presents convey your gratitude for their work and contribute to simplifying their everyday life.

Commuter Benefits and Transportation Perks

Commuter benefits and transportation perks are always great ideas for employee appreciation gifts that reduce travel expenses and time.

Be it a bus pass or a parking permit, these benefits streamline the daily commute and reduce expenses, offering your employees peace of mind with one fewer concern.

Home Services and Subscriptions

Offering home services and subscriptions is a considerate gesture to lighten the load of domestic tasks.

From a house cleaning service to a meal kit delivery, these convenient gifts afford your employees additional leisure time and the opportunity to pursue their hobbies and passions.

Flexible Work Arrangements

Flexible work arrangements are a significant gesture of appreciation that acknowledges your employees’ commitment and hard work.

By recognizing and offering ‘work anywhere days’ or extra vacation time, you not only honor their efforts but also promote a healthy work-life balance.

6. Creative and Thoughtful Gifts

Innovative and considerate presents bring a personal element that deeply connects with your employees.

Ranging from personalized handwritten notes to unique local treats, these gifts reflect the rich variety of tastes and inclinations present in your team.

Handwritten Notes and Personalized Messages

There’s something special about personalized gifts. Handwritten notes and personalized messages are a powerful way to express gratitude and recognition.

These small tokens of appreciation, often considered the best employee appreciation gifts, can make a big impact, making your employees feel truly appreciated.

Themed Gift Baskets

Customized gift baskets make excellent tokens of gratitude for employees, tailored to their unique tastes.

From a pampering self-care collection for unwinding to a deluxe foodie hamper, these curated packages serve as considerate and captivating tokens of employee recognition.

Local Specialties and Cultural Experiences

Explore a range of local customizable food specialties for unique gift ideas that cater to every palate.
Local specialties celebrate cultural diversity.

Local specialties and cultural experiences are a perfect way to celebrate diversity and support local businesses.

Here are some gift ideas to consider:

  • A book from a local author
  • A subscription to a cultural book club
  • A cooking class that focuses on local cuisine
  • A guided tour of a historical or cultural site in the area
  • A gift certificate to a favorite coffee shop or local restaurant

These gifting employees gifts enrich your employees’ lives and broaden their horizons.

Summary

Employee appreciation gifts serve as catalysts for boosting motivation, fostering gratitude, and cultivating a positive workplace culture.

Each employee recognition gift, whether it's personalized socks or flexible work arrangements, provides a distinct way to show appreciation for your employees' numerous contributions, hard work, and dedication.

Always remember, that showing even a small amount of appreciation can have a significant impact in the long run.

Ready to step up your employee appreciation game with a gift that combines style, comfort, and personalization?

Get started with Sockrates custom socks and give a gift that keeps on giving!

Contact us today to place your order and walk the path of happy employees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Sockrates socks a great employee appreciation gift?

Give the gift of sustainability, customization, and thoughtful employee appreciation with Sockrates socks.

Made from eco-friendly materials and customizable to match your company's brand or your employee's style, they're not just socks—they're a statement of how much you value your team.

It's a win-win for the planet and your workplace!

How can desk gadgets and accessories enhance productivity?

Desk gadgets and accessories can boost productivity by enhancing comfort and adding functionality to your workspace.

Whether it's ergonomic tools for better posture or fun items for stress relief, these additions can make a positive impact on your efficiency and work environment.

Recognizing the importance of a well-equipped workspace, try incorporating these tools and see the transformative effect on your day-to-day tasks!

What are some examples of experience-based gifts?

Experience-based gifts are an excellent avenue for recognizing personal and professional growth in your employees.

Consider options like Masterclass subscriptions for skill enhancement, travel perks for well-deserved breaks, or wellness subscriptions as a commitment to their health and happiness to surprise and treat your valued team members.

How can group activities and events foster a positive workplace culture?

Group activities and events can foster a positive workplace culture by instilling gratitude and motivation, strengthening team bonds, and creating a cheerful atmosphere.

So, plan some fun outings, game nights with a variety of games to engage everyone, or catered meals to boost your organization and workplace vibe!

Go on, get creative with games and more!

What are some examples of practical and time-saving gifts?

Consider the idea of giving your employees commuter benefits, home services, or flexible work arrangements to simplify their daily lives and save them time. It's a thoughtful way to show appreciation for their hard work.

To stay updated on all the latest sock styles and custom socks, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn.

Article Written By
Samuel Moses

We offer custom socks of all types and sizes (baby to adult) and lengths (no-show, ankle, crew, knee-high, and over the knee). We pride ourselves on being authentic Italian custom sock manufacturers with the highest level of quality and service for our customers. Try us out today!

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