After more than a year away, it’s finally time to return to the office. As COVID restrictions ease and we get used to a post-pandemic world, most companies have either started welcoming office workers back into the office or are making plans to do so. But not everyone is ready for the big transition.
While some folks are excited to get back, we know this can come with lots of apprehensions for others. Everything from traffic, to child care, to simply being around others for long periods of time can be on our team member’s minds.
One way to give a warm welcome back and ease tensions is with a welcome back gift. Imagine their delight when they walk into the office for the first time in over a year, and they are greeted with something personal and memorable on their desks. They are very likely to go home telling their families about it, and may even take a pic for the gram.
We’re sharing a few simple gift ideas that will show your appreciation in a variety of ways.
If you’d like to purchase any of these gifts for your team members, let us know! We work with the talented gift makers featured in this blog to help you get the gifts you need for your team members, just in time for return to work.
For all employees
Make sure you leave a card, post-it note, or some type of personal message at the desk. This is a great opportunity to express your heartfelt appreciation. Here’s a sample note:
Dear (team member),
Welcome back! It’s been a tough year and we’ve all been through so much. Through it all, you worked hard and made a difference for our team. I appreciate your dedication, and I’m so lucky to have you on the team.
We hope you enjoy this small token of appreciation to welcome you back to the office. Let me know if there’s anything I do to help you with your transition back.
Best,
(You)
When you want to send an inspirational message
We can’t always be there to pump up the team every minute of the day. Why not give something to inspire them while they sip on their morning cup of joe? This tin camping cup can be personalized with any message.
This ‘tapetito’ rug for the mug is a fun touch. It’s hand-sewn with vibrant colors, bringing lots of zest to a team member’s desk. This combo is sure to send positive vibes throughout the office.
When you want to give something more masculine
This succulent plant in a handsome geometric vessel will make their desk pop with some stylish flare.
When you want them to know you support their life outside of work
This colorful notepad and to-do list lets your team know you understand they are juggling a lot between work and home. Give them a way to keep organized and ready to tackle their day, and let them know you are cheering them on!
When you can’t manage a real life plant
We all love real plants. But with folks only in the office a few times a week, they may not be able to give them the TLC they need. Que the succulent candle! These cute candles give a workstation the look and feel of a live plant, but the durability of a candle, meaning it will stay pristine on their desks for months to come.
When you want to create a zen environment
This portable wax melt set gives your team member a chance to create their own mini-retreat at their desk. The set comes with delicious smelling wax scents, such as ‘mimosa’ and ‘sangria,’ that can have them feeling like they are back on their last tropical vacation. The warmer and tea-light candles are the perfect size to bring a gentle ambiance to their workstation.
When you want their first day back to be extra special
This mini bouquet of flowers is a darling gift for team members who deserve something extra special. That’s because these bouquets come with fresh flowers in their favorite colors, in a unique smiling vase. This is the perfect gift for someone who has held things down all year and really made an impact. Let them know you see them and really appreciate their efforts.
Whether it’s a unique gift, card, post-it note, or message on their whiteboard, do something special to welcome your team members back to the office. They will always remember your thoughtfulness and will feel so much better about coming back into the office.
