A company is nothing without its hardworking employees, and recognition and appreciation are known as some of the key motivating factors in the workplace. Along with a handwritten note or a verbal “thank you,” one of the best ways to express your gratitude to the members of your workforce is through employee appreciation gifts. Whether you’re celebrating Employee Appreciation Day, welcoming new hires, or are looking to celebrate your team just because — you can treat your employees to personalized gifts from Shutterfly to make them feel special.
When is Employee Appreciation Day?
Employee Appreciation Day is observed on the first Friday in March each year as a chance for employers to give recognition to their employees. This year, the day falls on Friday March 7, 2025. Employers all across the country in businesses and organizations use this day to host celebratory events for employee achievement and to recognize their hard work. On Employee Appreciation Day, some businesses might hold luncheons, host parties, or give gifts to their staff to make their employees feel valued.
Ideas for Employee Appreciation
Showing your team that they are valued at work is essential for building a positive and productive workplace. Employee appreciation goes beyond just saying “thank you.” It’s about recognizing their hard work, dedication, and contributions to the company’s success. Whether you’re planning an Employee Appreciation Day or looking for everyday ways to show your gratitude, here are some thoughtful staff appreciation ideas that will make your employees feel truly recognized:
- Personalized Gifts: Custom gifts like personalized water bottles, notebooks, or desk accessories show that you’ve put thought into your appreciation. It adds a personal touch that makes employees feel special.
- Team Recognition Events: Organizing team lunches, outings, or recognition events can boost morale and foster a sense of camaraderie. Acknowledging employees’ contributions in front of their peers is a great way to show appreciation and encourage team spirit.
- Shout-Outs: Publicly recognize employees during meetings or in company-wide communications. Highlight their hard work and contributions with shout-outs for team recognition.
- Wellness and Relaxation Gifts: Treat your team to gifts like spa kits, relaxation candles, or wellness retreats. These employee appreciation gifts not only show gratitude but also promote well-being.
- Extra Time Off: Reward employees with an extra day off or early release from work. It’s a simple yet effective way to show appreciation for their efforts and dedication.
By incorporating these employee appreciation ideas into your workplace, you can create an environment where employees feel valued and recognized for their hard work.
Employee Appreciation Messages
Expressing genuine appreciation for your employees goes a long way in building a positive and motivating work environment. Recognizing their efforts with thoughtful employee appreciation messages shows that you value their hard work and commitment. Whether you’re planning a staff appreciation event, giving a personalized gift, or simply offering words of gratitude, the right message can make a lasting impact. Here are some examples of messages you can use to show appreciation and recognize your team’s contributions:
- “Your dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed. We truly value your contributions to the team and appreciate everything you do.”
- “Thank you for being an integral part of our success. Your commitment to excellence and positive attitude set a great example for the entire team.”
- “We appreciate your creativity, initiative, and tireless efforts. You’re a valued member of our team, and we’re grateful to have you.”
- “Your contributions have made a huge difference in achieving our goals. Thank you for always stepping up and delivering great work.”
- “We’re lucky to have such a talented and dedicated team member. Your efforts have truly helped move the company forward.”
- “You go above and beyond every day, and it’s clear how much you care about your work. Thank you for your dedication and for being such a valuable part of our team.”
- “Your hard work and enthusiasm are inspiring. We appreciate all you’ve done to help us achieve success.”
- “Thank you for your continued dedication and commitment to the team. Your hard work and positive energy don’t go unnoticed.”
- “Your contributions to the company are truly appreciated. We value your hard work and dedication in helping us meet our goals.”
- “Staff appreciation isn’t just a day—it’s every day. Thank you for consistently giving your best and being a great example for the team.”
- “Team recognition is well-deserved, and we want you to know how much we appreciate everything you do to make our workplace a better place.”
- “You’ve shown incredible dedication and talent, and it doesn’t go unnoticed. Thank you for being a vital part of our team.”
- “Your leadership, creativity, and hard work set you apart. We value you and appreciate all your efforts in making this a great place to work.”
- “Thank you for being a key part of our success. Your contributions are highly valued, and we’re lucky to have you on the team.”
By incorporating these employee appreciation messages into staff recognition efforts, you can show your employees that they are valued at work. Whether it’s through formal recognition programs, a simple thank-you note, or team events, acknowledging their efforts fosters a strong and motivated workforce.
Employee Appreciation Gift Ideas
Celebrate your incredible team with gifts that show how much you care. The best employee appreciation gifts are personal, high-quality, and memorable. With our selection of personalized gifts, you can turn everyday items into a custom keepsake they’ll cherish for years to come. From custom coffee mugs to monthly planners and team hoodies, you can find the perfect token of appreciation for everyone on your hardworking team.
1. Custom Drinkware
A necessity on any desk, a coffee mug, water bottle, or tumbler is a great personalized gift that shows appreciation for your staff members. Customize a photo mug, stainless steel tumbler, or reusable water bottle with their monogram, photo, an inspirational quote, or the company logo to make this employee appreciation gift extra special.
2. Desk Accessories
Reward their hard work with a personalized employee recognition gift like desk accessories. Shutterfly’s collection of personalized office gifts include mouse pads, Post-it Notes, and desk organizers. These are not only great for employees that work in the office, but they are perfect gifts for remote employees that deserve to add some style to their desks at home.
3. Tote Bags
Perfect for keeping their personal belongings together, a custom tote bag is a great corporate gift everyone in the company will get tons of use out of. If you’re treating one standout employee, design a tote bag with their name, monogram, or photo. If it’s for many team members or a group of new hires, feature the company logo or mantra. This unique employee appreciation gift can be used to carry belongings to and from work, or as an everyday purse or shopping bag.
4. Keychains
A way to show appreciation to your incredible staff, keychains are great not only for Employee Appreciation Day but to celebrate promotions, company offsites, or a successful campaign. Custom keychains are one of the best employee appreciation gifts because they can take it with them whenever they’re on the go and be reminded of their hard work and dedication they put into their job.
5. Notepads
A great welcoming gift for new hires, custom notepads are essential for jotting down notes and ideas throughout the day. Include a notepad and other swag like a tote bag, pens, and a water bottle in a staff appreciation gift set.
6. Custom Apparel
Personalized sweatshirts and t-shirts make great team gifts for Employee Appreciation Day, the holidays, or to celebrate a successful launch or campaign. Customize apparel with a set of hoodies or t-shirts that say “Engineering Team” for example, or include the company logo on the design.
7. Coasters
A small custom gift like coasters is a great addition for an employee appreciation gift box. Pair it with coffee mugs, wine glasses, or beer glasses for a staff appreciation gift that doubles as a piece of home decor.
8. Christmas Ornaments
A one-of-a-kind holiday gift idea for your team members is a personalized Christmas ornament. Customize one set for the whole group with a photo of the team or design individual ornaments for each member with a picture they love.
9. Planners & Calendars
Show appreciation for your employee’s hard work and dedication with a custom planner or calendar. Our monthly planners offer more space to take notes and jot down meeting details. We also offer easel, desk, and wall calendars so they can stay organized while also flipping through the pages designed with photos they love.
10. Business Cards
There’s no better way to celebrate an employee than with new business cards. Congratulate them for their accomplishments with business cards as an employee recognition gift they will get plenty use out of at business meetings, conventions, and networking events.
11. Photo Book
Honor your employees that have been working at the company for years with custom photo books documenting some of their best memories on the team. These also make great retirement gifts, or gifts for your boss to thank them for their dedication and hard work.
12. Wireless Phone Charger
If you’re putting together a gift basket for Employee Appreciation Week, include a custom wireless phone charger designed with their favorite photos, a quote they love, their monogram, or their name so it’s personalized just for them.
13. Candles
A thoughtful gift for your office staff is a custom candle. Our collection of scented candles can be customized with your business logo, an inspirational quote, or a photo of the whole team. With a custom candle you can turn a simple gift into keepsake they hold onto for years to come.
14. Office Decor
To treat someone you’ve worked closely to for a long time, custom office decor is an employee appreciation gift they’ll be wowed by. Stickable photo tiles, custom canvas prints, and poster prints are the perfect way to treat your cherished team members. Wall art also makes a great gift for your boss.
15. Custom Magnets
Upgrade their workspace with custom magnets they can put on their filing cabinets, fridge, or storage lockers. Photo magnets make great business gifts that both small and practical.
16. Can Coolers
Fun and simple corporate gift ideas include custom can coolers with the company logo. Koozies are a great to hand out at a team BBQ or holiday party.
17. Tabletop Prints
A wonderful touch to their desk, a tabletop print featuring a special photo is a great way to add a piece of home to the office.
18. Thank You Card
A thank you card is an essential part of your employee appreciation gift. Let them know that their hard work doesn’t go unnoticed and that you appreciate all that they do. For inspiration on what to say in your note, check out our guide on What to Write in a Thank You Card.
Additional Resources on Employee Appreciation Gifts
You don’t have to wait for Employee Appreciation Day to treat your team to a thoughtful gift. For more resources on gift ideas, browse these pages below:
