The Best Going Away Gifts for a Coworker

Saying goodbye to a coworker can be bittersweet, especially if you’ve built strong relationships with them over time. Whether it’s due to retirement, relocation, or changing careers, giving your colleague a thoughtful going-away gift is an excellent way to show your appreciation and make the transition smoother.

To help you find the perfect present for your coworker’s farewell, we’ve compiled a list of the best going away gifts based on BestInvesters’s crowd-sourced recommendations and our editorial team’s high standards. So sit back, relax, and get inspired!

Factors to consider when buying going-away gifts:

Before diving into the gift ideas themselves, there are several factors that you should take into account when selecting the right present for your colleague:

  • Budget: Depending on how well you know your co-worker and how close you are with them.
  • Personalized vs not-personalized:
    Personalizing presents allows people to know that their colleagues care about their wishes;
  • Interests: Tailoring gifts around interests shows that one puts effort in getting to know someone outside of work;
  • Sentimentality: Sometimes it’s more meaningful just to tell them exactly why they’re appreciated;

Top 10 Going-Away Gifts for Coworkers:

  1. Customizable Coffee Mug
    A customizable coffee mug is always an excellent option as coworkers use cups daily while working. Personalize the mug by printing their name or adding words of appreciation towards their services.

  2. Flower Bouquet
    Flowers are versatile presents applicable on various occasions. A bouquet made up of different flowers will create memories that’ll last forever plus brings joy;

  3. Desk Plant
    Give an indoor plant such as succulents has become pretty mainstream nowadays because it adds color and liveliness in dreary offices;

  4. Memory Book/Photo Album
    Assembling pictures taken during work events, with personal notes, their favorite quotes, etc., for a colleague who has contributed to creating beautiful memories.

  5. Personalized Water Bottle
    Custom water bottles are an excellent way to show that you care about your colleagues; It’s eco-friendly and helps them stay hydrated while on the job.

  6. Custom Corporate Artwork
    Give customized art pieces according to one’s own interest shows tremendous love for them.

  7. Gift Card
    Gift cards have become common because friends & family couldn’t decide between what clothing items they liked so give a gift card from someone’s favorite store!

  8. Charging Dock/Station
    Most workplaces require phones as a tool in communication or business-related facets of the company; charging docks add convenience in charging electronics.

  9. Company Swag
    Companies usually provide branded swags like keychains or tote bags around holidays which would be perfect going away gifts with sentimental value attached;

  10. Shared Meal
    Sharing food is different from sharing presents but it can form closer bonds especially when accompanied by gratitude expressed towards each other.

Conclusion

In summary, choosing the best-going-away gifts for coworkers could be overwhelming sometimes because there is a wide range of possibilities! Understanding your coworker is essential when considering personalized vs non-personalized options.
By keeping these factors in mind and using our guidelines of curated gift ideas based on popular crowd-sourced choices all under $50, you’ll find it easier than ever before to choose the ideal present that will bring joy and celebrate your colleague’s achievements as well as saying goodbye!

FAQs

What makes a good going away gift for a coworker?
A good going away gift for a coworker is something thoughtful and personal that shows your appreciation for their time working with you. It can be anything from a personalized item, like a mug or picture frame, to an experience such as tickets to their favorite concert or restaurant reservation.

How much should I spend on a going away gift for my coworker?
The amount you spend on a going away gift depends on your relationship with the coworker and how long they have been in the company. A safe budget would be between $20-$50, but if you are close friends and want to splurge, feel free to go higher.

Is it appropriate to give an inside joke as a going-away present?
It’s important to read the room before giving any type of gag gift or inside joke present. If the recipient has shown they have similar humor in the past and won’t take offense, go ahead! However, it’s best not to risk hurting someone’s feelings during this sentimental time by sticking with more classic gifts that everyone will appreciate.