With the rise of remote work, it’s more important than ever to show your team how much you appreciate their hard work and dedication. But with the physical distance between you and your employees, it can be difficult to find the right gifts to express your gratitude. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 13 remote employee appreciation gifts that will show your team you care.
From practical gifts to thoughtful gestures, these gift ideas will make your remote employees feel valued and appreciated, even from afar. So whether you’re celebrating a milestone, saying thank you for a job well done, or simply wanting to show your team that you care, these gifts are sure to make a lasting impression.
1. Personalized Gift Boxes
When it comes to showing your remote employees that you appreciate them, there’s no better way than by sending them a personalized gift box. These boxes can be tailored to each employee’s interests and preferences, making them feel seen and valued. Here are some ideas for personalized gift boxes that your team will love:
Customized snack boxes
Fill a box with your employee’s favorite snacks, whether it’s healthy options like nuts and dried fruit or indulgent treats like chocolates and candies. You can also add a personalized note to show your appreciation.
Healthy snack boxes
Encourage your team’s wellness by sending them a box filled with healthy snacks like granola bars, fruit snacks, and trail mix. You can also include a reusable water bottle or a workout accessory like resistance bands (see point #7).
Personalized care packages
Create a care package tailored to each employee’s needs, whether it’s a relaxation kit with a candle, bath salts, and a face mask, or a productivity kit with a journal, pens, and a motivational book.
Gift boxes with company-branded items
Show your team spirit by sending them a gift box filled with items branded with your company logo, such as a mug, a t-shirt, or a tote bag. This not only shows your appreciation but also promotes your brand and fosters a sense of team unity.
Whatever you choose to include in your personalized gift boxes, be sure to add a personal touch and show your employees how much you value their hard work and dedication.
2. Coffee and Tea Subscription Services
For many people, a cup of coffee or tea is an essential part of their morning routine. By sending your remote employees a subscription to a coffee or tea service, you can show them that you understand and appreciate their daily rituals. Here are some ideas for coffee and tea subscription services:
High-quality coffee and tea deliveries
Many coffee and tea subscription services offer premium blends from around the world, ensuring that your employees can enjoy the best quality coffee and tea. Some popular options include Blue Bottle Coffee, Stumptown Coffee Roasters, and Adagio Tea.
Customized coffee and tea blends
Some subscription services allow you to create your own coffee or tea blend, allowing you to tailor the subscription to your employees’ tastes. This personalization can make your remote employees feel seen and appreciated.
Subscription services with unique roasts and flavors
If your employees are adventurous when it comes to trying new flavors, you can subscribe them to a service that offers unique roasts or flavors. Some popular options include Atlas Coffee Club, which offers coffee from different countries each month, and Tea Runners, which sends monthly boxes of artisanal teas.
By subscribing your remote employees to a coffee or tea service, you not only show your appreciation but also provide them with a comforting and enjoyable part of their daily routine. Plus, with many of these services offering convenient home delivery, it’s a gift that is easy to manage from afar.
3. Ergonomic Office Chairs and Accessories
With many remote employees spending long hours at their desks, it’s important to ensure that they have a comfortable and supportive work environment. One way to do this is by sending them ergonomic office chairs and accessories. Here are some options to consider:
Comfortable and supportive office chairs
Investing in a high-quality, comfortable office chair can make a huge difference in your employees’ comfort and productivity. Look for chairs that offer adjustable lumbar support, armrests, and height settings to accommodate different body types.
Ergonomic keyboard and mouse sets
Repetitive motions such as typing and using a mouse can cause strain on the hands and wrists. Ergonomic keyboard and mouse sets offer a more natural hand position, reducing the risk of injury and discomfort.
Standing desk accessories
Standing desks are becoming increasingly popular as a way to reduce the negative effects of sitting for long periods. Consider sending your employees standing desk accessories such as anti-fatigue mats, footrests, and monitor risers to make standing more comfortable.
By investing in ergonomic office chairs and accessories, you not only show your employees that you care about their well-being, but you also help them to work more comfortably and productively. Plus, with many online retailers offering home delivery, it’s easy to send these gifts directly to your employees’ homes.
A floor-sitting desk
I covered floor-sitting desks here, so make sure and go check out the selections. They can be fairly minimal in terms of space, and aren’t too expensive either. Depending on how mobile your remote employee actually is, a portable desk might be a viable option as well. Either way, both options can promote a healthy remote lifestyle for your team.
4. Customized Water Bottles
Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining good health and productivity, especially for those who spend long hours working at a desk. By sending your remote employees a customized water bottle, you not only encourage healthy habits but also show your appreciation for their hard work. Here are some options for customized water bottles:
Branded water bottles with employee names
Personalizing water bottles with employee names adds a special touch and makes the gift feel more thoughtful and unique. This can also help to prevent mix-ups or confusion when working with colleagues.
Insulated water bottles with custom designs
Insulated water bottles keep drinks cold or hot for longer periods, making them perfect for those who are always on the go. Consider adding a custom design to the bottle to make it more personalized and unique.
Reusable water bottles with motivational quotes
Reusable water bottles are an eco-friendly alternative to disposable plastic bottles. Consider adding motivational quotes or messages to the bottles to inspire and uplift your employees throughout the day.
By sending customized water bottles to your remote employees, you not only promote healthy habits but also show that you care about their well-being. Plus, with many customization options available online, it’s easy to create unique and personalized gifts that will make your employees feel appreciated.
5. Fitness Equipment
Working from home can make it difficult to stay active, especially when many gyms and fitness centers aren’t always convenient to go to during the workday. You certainly won’t be able to send them free weights, but rest assured there are still options!
Yoga mats and blocks
Yoga is a great way to reduce stress and increase flexibility, and with a yoga mat and blocks, your employees can easily practice at home. Look for mats that are non-slip and cushioned for maximum comfort.
Resistance bands and weights
Resistance bands and weights are great for strength training exercises that can be done anywhere. Consider sending your employees a set of bands or weights with different resistance levels to cater to different fitness levels.
Exercise balls and balance boards
Exercise balls and balance boards are a fun and challenging way to improve balance and stability. They can also be used for exercises that target core strength and flexibility.
Fitness gifts for your remote team members help promote physical and mental health. By proxy, you’re encouraging them to take breaks and engage in physical activity throughout the day. Plus, with many online retailers offering home delivery, it’s easy to send these gifts directly to your employees’ homes.
6. Meal Delivery Services
Meal preparation can often fall to the wayside with busy work schedules. Sending your employees a meal delivery service, will not only save them time and energy but also show your support for their overall health and well-being. Here are some options for meal delivery services:
Healthy meal kits and recipes
Many meal delivery services offer healthy meal kits with pre-portioned ingredients and recipes, making it easy for your employees to cook nutritious meals at home. Some popular options include Blue Apron, HelloFresh, and my personal favorite: Imperfect Foods. I’ve been subscribed to them for several years now, and I can’t get enough of their food and convenient delivery options.
Personalized meal plans and grocery deliveries
Some meal delivery services offer personalized meal plans and grocery deliveries tailored to specific dietary needs or preferences. This can be especially helpful for employees with allergies, sensitivities, or dietary restrictions.
Vegan and gluten-free options
For employees who follow a vegan or gluten-free diet, there are many meal delivery services that cater specifically to these needs. Some popular options include Purple Carrot and Daily Harvest.
Help promote healthy work-life balance with your team members with home delivery options. It’s easy and convenient for them, and there are tons of options available!
7. Online Exercise Classes and Subscriptions
Since the pandemic, online exercise classes have become a very popular way to stay active and healthy. By sending your remote employees one of these subscriptions, you can do your small part to help promote wellness. Here are some options for exercise classes and subscriptions for your remote team members:
Virtual workout classes
Many gyms and fitness studios offer virtual workout classes now, allowing your employees to participate from the comfort of their own home. Look for classes that cater to different fitness levels and interests, such as yoga, pilates, or HIIT workouts.
Personalized fitness coaching
Some online fitness platforms offer personalized fitness coaching, allowing your employees to receive customized workout plans and support from certified trainers.
Fitness app subscriptions
Fitness apps offer a variety of workout programs and plans that can be done at home with little to no equipment. Consider gifting your employees a subscription to a popular fitness app such as Fitbit Coach, Nike Training Club, or MyFitnessPal.
Online fitness options are readily available now, so it’s easy to find a gift that caters to your employees’ interests and fitness levels.
8. Digital Gift Cards
Keeping things simple isn’t a bad thing. Digital gift cards offer a convenient and flexible way to show your appreciation for your remote team. Here are some options to help your brainstorming:
Gift cards to online stores and services
Many popular online retailers, such as Amazon, Target, and Walmart, offer digital gift cards that can be used to purchase a variety of products and services.
Gift cards for wellness and self-care services
Consider sending your remote employees gift cards to wellness and self-care services such as meditation apps, online therapy sessions, or virtual fitness classes.
Digital gift cards are just a few clicks away, so if you’re looking for a simple gift without the bells and whistles, this might be your best bet.
9. Personalized Desk Accessories
Personalized desk accessories offer a fun and unique way to show your appreciation for your remote employees while also adding a personal touch to their workspace.
Customized desk nameplates
Customized desk nameplates add a personal touch to your employees’ workstations and can help to promote a sense of belonging and identity.
Personalized mouse pads
Personalized mouse pads can feature employee names, photos, or motivational messages. This can be a great way to add some personality to your employees’ workspaces.
Customized office organizers
Customized office organizers can be used to store pens, pencils, paper clips, and other office supplies. Adding employee names or initials to the organizers can make them feel more personalized and unique.
By sending personalized desk accessories to your remote employees, you not only show your appreciation but also add a personal touch to their workspace. Plus, with many customization options available online, it’s easy to create unique and personalized gifts that will make your employees feel appreciated.
10. Personalized Artwork and Decor
Personalized artwork and decor offer a unique and thoughtful way to show your appreciation for your remote employees while also adding some personality to their home office. Here are some options for personalized artwork and decor:
Customized photo frames
Customized photo frames can be used to display photos of family, friends, or pets. Adding personalized messages or employee names to the frames can make them feel more special and unique.
Personalized wall art
Personalized wall art can feature employee names, motivational messages, or company values. This can be a great way to promote a positive work environment and inspire your employees throughout the day.
Customized desk planters
Customized desk planters can be used to hold plants or flowers, adding a touch of nature to your employees’ workspaces. Adding personalized messages or employee names to the planters can make them feel more special and unique.
By sending personalized artwork and decor to your remote employees, you not only show your appreciation but also add some personality and style to their home office. Plus, with many customization options available online, it’s easy to create unique and personalized gifts that will make your employees feel appreciated.
11. Language Learning Programs
Learning a new language can be a fun and enriching experience, especially for those who are digital nomads (also mentioned on our Digital Nomad Gifts post!), and who work with colleagues from around the world. By sending your remote employees a language learning program, you not only promote personal development but also show your support for their professional growth. Here are some options for language learning programs:
Online language courses
Many online language courses offer interactive lessons, practice exercises, and support from certified language instructors. Some popular options include Babbel, Rosetta Stone, and Duolingo.
Language learning apps
Language learning apps offer a convenient and flexible way to learn a new language on-the-go. Consider gifting your employees a subscription to a popular language learning app such as Busuu, Memrise, or Lingoda.
Language learning books and resources
Language learning books and resources can provide a more traditional and immersive learning experience. Consider sending your employees language learning books, dictionaries, or other language learning resources to help them improve their skills.
With many online and digital options available, it’s easy to find a gift that caters to your employees’ interests and language learning goals.
12. Charitable Donations
Charitable donations offer a meaningful way to show your appreciation for your remote employees while also making a positive impact on society. By allowing your employees to choose a charity or cause that is important to them, you not only show your support for their values and beliefs but also promote a culture of giving and social responsibility. Here are some options for charitable donations:
Donation matching programs
Consider implementing a donation matching program where you match your employees’ charitable donations up to a certain amount. This can encourage your employees to donate to causes they care about while also demonstrating your commitment to social responsibility.
Donations to local or international charities
Consider allowing your employees to choose a local or international charity to donate to. This can help to support causes that are important to your employees and make a positive impact on the world.
Donations to disaster relief efforts
In times of crisis, consider making a donation to a disaster relief fund or organization. This can show your employees that you care about their well-being and support them during difficult times.
By allowing your remote employees to make charitable donations, you not only show your appreciation but also promote a culture of giving and social responsibility. Plus, with many online donation platforms available, it’s easy to facilitate these donations and make a positive impact on society.
13. Aromatherapy Diffusers and Essential Oils
Aromatherapy diffusers and essential oils can be a great gift for remote employees who are looking to create a relaxing and calming atmosphere in their home office. Essential oils have been shown to have a variety of benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, improving mood, and promoting better sleep.
Essential oil diffusers
Essential oil diffusers can be used to disperse the scent of essential oils throughout a room, creating a relaxing and calming atmosphere. There are many different types of diffusers available, including ultrasonic diffusers, nebulizing diffusers, and heat diffusers.
Essential oil sets
Essential oil sets offer a variety of different scents and can be used to create a custom blend or to try out different oils. Consider gifting your employees an essential oil set to help them find the scents that work best for them.
Single essential oils
Single essential oils can be used on their own or in combination with other oils to create a custom blend. Some popular essential oils for relaxation and stress relief include lavender, chamomile, and bergamot.
By gifting your remote employees aromatherapy diffusers and essential oils, you not only show your appreciation but also provide them with a tool to create a relaxing, focused, and calming atmosphere in their home office. Plus, with many different options available, it’s easy to find a gift that caters to your employees’ preferences and needs.
FAQs
What should I consider when choosing a remote employee appreciation gift?
When choosing a gift, consider the employee’s interests, job duties, beliefs, and work environment. Think about what will make their workday more enjoyable and comfortable. And don’t forget, some employees genuinely don’t want a gift!
How can I personalize gifts for remote employees?
You can personalize gifts by adding the employee’s name, using the company logo or branding, or choosing gifts that align with the employee’s interests and hobbies. Bonus points for including a group picture from a work function on a mug!
How can I make sure my remote employees feel appreciated?
Communicate regularly with your remote team, provide opportunities for professional growth, recognize and celebrate their achievements, and show your appreciation through thoughtful gestures like the gifts listed above.
Wrapping up
Remote work can be isolating and challenging, but with the right tools and support, your team can thrive. Showing your remote employees that you value their hard work and dedication can make a big difference in their motivation and morale. By using the list above for inspiration, you can express your gratitude and support for your team, no matter where they are located.
Jared has worked remotely for 15 years in various marketing capacities, and has managed hundreds of marketing campaigns along the way. He has held freelance, agency, and in-house positions for companies large and small.