25 Welcome Back to Work Gift Ideas for Coworkers
Returning to work after an extended absence can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether your coworker has been on maternity leave, recovering from a medical leave, enjoying a well-deserved vacation, or embarking on a sabbatical, it's a significant moment for them to rejoin the workplace community. To celebrate this milestone and show your support, we've curated a list of 25 thoughtful welcome back to work gift ideas for coworkers. From practical items to heartfelt gestures, these gifts are designed to make their transition smoother and let them know they were missed.
What are Welcome Back to Work Gifts?
Welcome back to work gifts are tokens of appreciation given to coworkers who are returning to the office after an extended absence. These gifts serve as a warm gesture to acknowledge their return, boost morale, and reaffirm their sense of belonging within the team.
Why are They Important?
Welcome back gifts play a crucial role in fostering a positive work environment. They not only make the returning coworker feel valued and supported but also strengthen bonds among team members. These gifts serve as reminders of the camaraderie and solidarity within the workplace, contributing to a culture of inclusivity and appreciation.
How to Choose the Right One
When selecting a welcome back to work gift, consider the individual's preferences, interests, and the nature of their absence. Opt for something thoughtful and practical that will help ease their transition back into the routine. Personalized gifts or items related to their hobbies can also add a special touch. Above all, choose a gift that conveys your genuine excitement for their return and appreciation for their presence in the team.
Welcome Back to Work Gift Ideas
1) Pop-Up Card
A pop-up card is a great way to welcome your coworker back to work. Imagine their surprise and joy when they find a beautifully crafted pop-up card on their desk, waiting to greet them as they return to the office. Pair it with a gift card to their favorite coffee shop or lunch spot and include a personal message. This thoughtful gift shows that you're excited to have them back and helps ease their transition back to the daily grind. Your coworker is sure to feel appreciated and welcomed back with open arm.
2) Balloons
Welcome back in style with this vibrant party pack! This set of colorful balloons is the perfect way to infuse a sense of fun and festivity into your coworker's return to the office. With a mix of bright hues and cheerful designs, these balloons will instantly uplift spirits and create a celebratory atmosphere. Whether hung up around their desk or scattered throughout the office, these balloons are sure to make their comeback memorable and filled with joy.
3) "You Got This" Coffee Mug
Sweet Water Decor's "You Got This" stoneware coffee mug is the perfect gift to uplift and motivate your coworker as they return to the office! This stylish and modern mug is a daily reminder that they've got what it takes to tackle any challenges that come their way. Crafted to keep spirits high during even the toughest days, this mug will quickly become their go-to companion for morning coffee or afternoon tea. Say goodbye to boring white coffee mugs and hello to a chic and empowering addition to their desk décor!
4) YETI Water Bottle
Welcome your coworker on their first day back to the office with the YETI Yonder Water Bottle, the ultimate hydration companion! This sleek and durable water bottle is designed to keep them hydrated on the go, whether they're in meetings or running between tasks. Engineered with lightweight and shatter-resistant materials, it's the perfect blend of practicality and style, ensuring they can haul essential hydration wherever their day takes them. With the YETI Yonder by their side, your coworker will stay refreshed and energized as they dive back into the hustle and bustle of office life.
5) Succulent Garden
Give the welcome gift of greenery and tranquility with gorgeous succulent plants! This unique garden collection features fully rooted live indoor plants nestled in a modern décor planter. Easy to care for and ready to thrive, these succulents are the perfect way to liven up their desk, windowsill, or shelf with minimal effort. Not only do these plants elevate the aesthetics of their surroundings, but they also promote mood and wellbeing, providing a sense of calm and freshness to uplift spirits as they settle back into the office routine.
6) Personalized Notebook
If you are looking for welcome back gift ideas with a personal touch, consider a personalized notebook. This exquisite journal is more than just a writing tool; it's a thoughtful gesture. Make them feel valued and appreciated by embossing the employee's name in elegant gold metallic foil. Featuring a convenient pocket and lock design, this journal helps them stay organized on the go, whether jotting down ideas or keeping track of important notes. Crafted from suede-soft vegan leather, it offers a luxurious writing experience as they document their thoughts, ideas, and goals. Give the gift of inspiration and creativity with this memorable and sophisticated journal, perfect for welcoming employees back to the office.
7) Fresh Fruit Basket
Give your coworker a warm welcome with this delightful and classic fresh fruit basket! Bursting with orchard-favorite fruits, savory gourmet cheddar cheese, signature trail mix, premium almonds, and delectable olive oil sea salt crackers, this basket is the ultimate care package. Whether they're craving a healthy snack or a savory treat, this assortment has something for everyone to enjoy. Show your appreciation with this welcome back to work gift basket that's sure to make their return to the office extra special.
8) Motivational Desk Calendar
Help your coworkers adjust to the new normal with daily doses of inspiration and positivity. This standing flip calendar is more than just desk decor; it's a daily reminder to start each day with a smile and a can-do attitude. Featuring motivational quotes and eye-catching designs, this calendar will keep them inspired and on task, no matter what challenges come their way. Plus, as a perpetual calendar, they can use it year after year, making it a timeless and enduring gift that continues to uplift and motivate for years to come. Give the gift of encouragement and empowerment with this charming desk accessory, a simple way to welcome employees back to the office with a boost of enthusiasm.
9) Wireless Charging Stand
What's the perfect welcome back gift for your employees or coworkers? The Anker Wireless Charging Stand! This innovative stand is designed to simultaneously charge iPhone and AirPod compatible devices simultaneously, keeping their essential gadgets powered up throughout the day. With adaptable charging and viewing options, including both vertical and horizontal positioning and customizable viewing angles, this charger accommodates their preferred charging style and enhances their productivity by allowing for convenient video streaming or notification monitoring. Give the gift of convenience and efficiency with wireless chargers for your staff members, perfect for a returning employee looking to stay connected and powered up with ease.
10) Relaxing Bath Gift Set
Welcome your coworker back to the office with the ultimate relaxation experience courtesy of a relaxing bath gift set. This self-care gift box features three premium products known for their calming and rejuvenating properties, including a Calm essential oil roller, organic oatmeal bath soak, and luxurious bath salts. Carefully curated to promote relaxation and unwind after a long day, this spa gift set is the perfect way to help them destress and pamper themselves. Give the gift of tranquility and self-care, ensuring they feel refreshed and rejuvenated as they ease back into the workplace routine.
11) Custom Backpack
Whether welcoming new employees or returning colleagues, this custom backpack is the perfect blend of functionality and personalization! Designed for the modern commuter, this backpack ensures their tech gadgets, including laptops, stay secure and easily accessible with dedicated storage compartments. With ample space for additional supplies and accessories, it's the ultimate companion for their on-the-go lifestyle. Plus, with a variety of colors to choose from and the option to add a custom monogram or company logo, this gift not only showcases your caring company culture but also makes them feel appreciated and valued from day one.
12) Tea and Coffee Variety Pack
When it comes to office gift ideas, you can't go wrong with a tasty beverage to enhance the team spirit! This deluxe variety pack from Cusa Tea includes a mix of almost all of their premium flavors, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. With premium coffee that's smooth and silky whether hot or cold, and organic tea made from top-quality leaves, they'll savor every sip without any added sugars or preservatives. Plus, with innovative cold-brew technology, they can indulge in a caffeine boost that's both delicious and environmentally conscious. Show your support for small businesses while treating your coworkers to a delightful beverage assortment that's sure to make their return to work extra special.
13) High-Quality Pens
Boost your coworkers' spirits and productivity with this high-quality gift set. This set of three metal pens is not only practical for daily use but also adorned with inspirational quotes to keep them motivated throughout the day. With each pen capped for convenience and protection, they'll have a constant reminder of positivity and good vibes as they tackle their tasks. Elevate their desk accessories and show your support for their success with this thoughtful and empowering gift idea.
14) Bentgo Salad Container
Welcome your coworker back to the office with the Bentgo® All-in-One Salad Container, the ultimate solution for enjoying healthy meals on the go. This stackable lunch box set includes everything they need for a nutritious lunch, featuring a large 54 oz bowl, a 4-compartment bento tray for fixings, a leak-proof sauce container, and even a reusable fork. Perfect for getting back into the routine after being out of the office for a long time, this convenient container makes it easy for them to pack and enjoy fresh salads and other nutritious meals wherever they are. Give the gift of convenience and healthy eating, ensuring they start their return to work on the right foot.
15) Personalized Keychain
These personalized leather keychains are the perfect accessory to keep their work keys organized and easily accessible. Crafted from high-quality leather, these keychains add a touch of sophistication to their daily essentials and also serve as a practical tool for staying organized. Customize with their name or initials for a special touch that shows you've put thought into their return. Whether used for work keys or as a stylish luggage tag for business trips, these keychains are a versatile and thoughtful gift that will make them feel welcomed and appreciated. Simple yet exquisite, they're sure to love the feel and functionality of this personalized accessory.
16) Wireless Earbuds
These wireless earbuds are a fun idea to gift to a returning coworker or new team member joining the office. Elevate their daily routine with powerful sound, delivering an immersive audio experience that energizes their workday. With up to 20 hours of battery life, they can enjoy uninterrupted listening without the hassle of wires. Stay connected hands-free and in full comfort with simple touch controls, allowing them to manage calls and music effortlessly. Whether they're focusing on tasks or unwinding during breaks, these wireless earbuds provide the perfect blend of convenience and exceptional sound.
17) Custom Phone Case
Are you looking for unique gifts to recognize and thank your employees for all of their hard work? With these custom phone cases, they can showcase their individual style and personality with a phone cover featuring their own personalized name in a handwritten style. Crafted from premium liquid silicone rubber, these cases provide both style and protection for their device. To place a custom order, simply click "Customize Now," select the phone model, choose their favorite color or style, and enter their name for a truly one-of-a-kind accessory. Whether it's for keeping their phone safe or adding a personal touch to their tech, these custom phone cases make for a thoughtful and memorable gift idea for employees returning to work.
18) Stanley Quencher
Impress new hires and welcome coworkers back to work in a fun way by gifting them a Stanley Quencher. These travel tumblers are super trendy for good reason. They come in a wide range of colors, from classic basics to pretty pastels to vibrant hues. The best part is the double wall vacuum insulation which keeps drinks cold, iced or hot for hours. Other features include the convenient comfort-grip handle, reusable straw for easy sipping, and large size to keep them refreshed all day long. Grab one in every color for a unique gift idea for every member of your team they will love.
19) Scented Candle
Welcome your coworker back to work with the soothing ambiance of a scented candle. Infused with a delightful cedar fragrance, this candle not only serves as a beautiful decorative piece but also promotes relaxation and comfort. The beautiful glass jar features a pretty label with the quote "It's a good day to have a good day." Whether they need a moment of tranquility amidst their busy day or just want to relax at the end of a busy day, this scented candle is the perfect companion. Give the gift of encouragement and mental health with this thoughtful and uplifting gift idea for welcoming coworkers back to the office.
20) Custom Tote Bag
A custom tote bag is a thoughtful and practical gift that combines personalization and functionality. With a range of colors to choose from, you can select their favorite color to match their style. Personalize the tote with their name, initial, or a meaningful image or quote to create a truly unique and custom gift. Perfect for carrying their work essentials in style, this tote bag is not only useful but also serves as a daily reminder of your appreciation for their return to work.
More Welcome Back to Work Gift Ideas
To finish off our list of welcome back to work gift ideas, we've including a few interest-based gifts. Tailoring your gift to the person's hobbies or interests is a great opportunity to show you care about them and what is important to them. Plus, it gives them an outlet to relax and destress during non-working hours doing something they love. Here a few ideas to inspire you but be creative and use your imagination to come up with the perfect gift to help them unwind.
21) Fitbit Fitness Tracker
A Fitbit Fitness Tracker is an ideal gift for someone passionate about fitness and wellness, providing them with personalized insights and motivation to achieve their health goals.
22) Custom Golf Balls
Custom golf balls are the perfect gift for golf enthusiasts, adding a personalized touch to their game and enhancing their enjoyment on the course.
23) Crochet Kit
A crochet kit is an excellent gift idea for crafting enthusiasts, providing everything they need to create beautiful handmade projects and unleash their creativity.
24) Personalized Wine Tasting Board
A personalized wine flight tasting board is the perfect gift for wine connoisseurs, offering a unique and elegant way to savor and showcase their favorite wines with a personal touch.
25) Kindle Paperwhite
A Kindle Paperwhite is an excellent gift for avid readers, providing them with a portable and convenient way to access a vast library of books and enjoy their favorite stories anytime, anywhere.
Welcoming a coworker back to work after an extended absence is an opportunity to show appreciation and support as they rejoin the workplace community. Whether it's a thoughtful gesture, a practical item, or a personalized gift, there are numerous ways to make their return special. From stylish desk accessories to self-care essentials, this gift guide offers a variety of options to suit every taste and occasion. By choosing a gift that reflects their interests and needs, you can make their transition back to work smoother and more enjoyable while reaffirming their sense of belonging within the team.
Certain products or services mentioned on this website may include affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This commission helps support our website, enabling us to provide valuable content. Rest assured that we only recommend products and services we believe in. Your support is greatly appreciated and allows us to continue delivering high-quality content.
