The 38 best gifts for any type of boss in 2023

Side by side images. On the left, a tall and a short bottle of Graza olive oils. On the right, a person looking at something on a laptop while wearing a hooded The Comfy blanket.
From cute desk accessories to delicious food and snacks, these gifts will make your boss feel appreciated. Graza; Target

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It's not easy picking out a gift for your boss. You've got to strike a balance between thoughtful and appropriate, without breaking the bank of course. We've got you covered to make sure you pick out the best gift for your boss, no matter their preferences. 

In this guide, we're seeing a few top gifts stick out with our readers this holiday season. The tea subscription from Atlas has been a popular choice, and if your boss loves tea, it's a smart and classy pick. For a more humorous and customizable gift, our readers are also selecting the desk name plate from Uncommon Goods, which offers several different phrases — just make sure it's tasteful for your boss. 

For more options, check out our exhaustive list of the best gifts for your boss this holiday season. From presents that make their life at work easier to items they can enjoy using on their days off, this list has something for every kind of boss and budget.

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A sweet surprise delivered right to their inbox

Red, yellow, green, and blue striped boxes with different Sugarwish candy and snacks in them.
Sugarwish

Sugarwish Treat Boxes

Sugarwish's business model is simple: You pick the number of treats they receive, the recipient gets an email inviting them to select their favorite treats, and their selected treats are shipped directly to them. It's a practically foolproof gift for a boss because everyone loves candy, and you don't have to go through the awkwardness of figuring out their address. 

A sweatshirt that's also a blanket

Person wearing the Comfy wearable blanket while sitting on a couch and working on a laptop.
Target

The Comfy Original

Why is it that all offices always get freezing cold? This is the ideal gift for the boss who always complains about the office temperature. It's a plush wearable blanket they can curl up in whenever they need some extra warmth.

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A cushion to make their desk chair more comfortable

Person sitting in a chair with Purple Royal seat cushions on the seat and back of the chair while working on a laptop computer at a desk.
Amazon

Purple Royal Seat Cushion

Whether they're working from home or in the office every day, spending hours sitting in a chair can get uncomfortable fast. This supportive, cooling seat cushion turns even the hardest of chairs into a plush, soft place to sit.

A leather business card holder

Two Leatherology Business Card Cases, one shown open with business cards inside, and one closed showing a monogram on the outside.
Leatherology

Leatherology Business Card Case

First impressions matter, which is why they should be pulling out business cards from a handsome leather case. It has a no-fuss, invisible magnetic closure and can hold up to 20 cards. Choose from pebbled or smooth leathers in a variety of colors, or upgrade to premium leather. You can also add a monogram for an additional $10. 

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A subscription that delivers the best teas or coffees to their door

indonesia atlas tea club gift subscription of two teas, tea cup, and a photo of indonesia set against a white background
Atlas Tea Club

Atlas Tea Club Subscription

This subscription sends them delicious, unique single-origin teas or coffees from the best regions in the world for three months. It'll make each day just a little more pleasant.

The best pens for their office

Set of three Muji Gel Ink Ball Point Pens, one with the cap taken off.
Amazon

Muji Gel Ink Ball Point Pens

Muji's fine 0.38mm tip pen is a cult favorite — including among our teammates. According to the company, the water-based ink enables smooth writing, minimal bleeding, and a mechanism that helps keep the ink from drying out. If they write handwritten notes for work, they may have an outsized appreciation for this small but impactful upgrade. They're sold out on Muji, but you can still find them on Amazon.

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A desk sign with a hint of humor

Two desk name plates; one that says "I'm kind of a big deal" and one that says "I'm not bossy, I am the boss."
Uncommon Goods

Lasercrafting Desk Name Plates

If you and your boss have a humorous rapport going, they could get a kick out of this witty take on the everyday office signage. Plus, the sleek wooden and gold design let the sign speak for itself without appearing overly kitschy. 

A tool to relieve muscle tension

The Buddy Back Buddy Elite plastic S-shaped back scratcher.
Amazon

Buddy Back Buddy Elite

After hunching over a computer all day long, most of us could use something to get rid of all those knots and muscle tension. This handheld massaging tool will give them some quick relief, whether at home or at their desk.

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Fresh and funny sticky notes

Knock Knock To Accomplish Stick Notes Packet
Amazon

Knock Knock To Accomplish Stick Notes Packet

Office supplies may not sound like the most exciting gift around, but these sticky notes are anything but boring. From lighthearted and humorous to straight-up sassy, you're sure to find a set of these sticky notes that will make your boss laugh– and help keep them organized. 

Their very own "The Office" mug

A white mug with a blue star and a photo of someone's face, inspired by "The Office"
MugsAndPins/Etsy

"The Office" Mug

Remember when Kelly threw a party in "The Office," gave out mugs like these as party favors, and quietly exacted revenge against Dwight and Jim for missing it? Well, if your boss is a fan of "The Office," they'll appreciate having their very own version of one.

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A box of snacks from around the world

Italy Yum Yum snack box with assorted Italian snacks including airy amarettini almond cookies and hazelnut chocolate.
Universal Yums

Universal Yums Yum Yum Gift Box

Level up their desk snack situation with a curated box of snacks from a country across the globe. Universal Yums creates snack boxes inspired by different cultures so they can taste-test their way around the world.

A set of fancy olive oils

Graza 'Drizzle' & 'Sizzle' Extra Virgin Olive Oil on a table surrounded by silverware and plants.
Graza

Graza 'Drizzle' & 'Sizzle' Extra Virgin Olive Oil

If your boss is always talking about the delectable dishes they whipped up over the weekend, this set of high-quality olive oils from Graza will be a winner. The finishing and cooking oils, named Drizzle and Sizzle respectively, are made from fresh Picual olives in Spain and come in squeezable bottles for ease of use. 

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A mini humidifier to make their space more comfortable

Pure Enrichment MistAire cloud-shaped humidifier set on top of a cabinet releasing mist into the air.
Target

Pure Enrichment MistAire Cloud Mist Humidifier

Dry air can make any workspace uncomfortable. This cute cloud-shaped humidifier will make their workspace more pleasant with a constant mist that runs for 24 hours, making it easier to breathe all day long.

A classic Moleskine notebook

Moleskine Classic Hard Cover Large Notebook
Amazon

Moleskine Classic Hard Cover Large Notebook

There's a reason Moleskine notebooks have been so popular for so long; they're quite durable and great quality. Whether your boss always needs paper on hand to take notes during team meetings or is known to keep a log of all of their genius business ideas, a new notebook is sure to get plenty of use. 

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A cool calendar

Rifle Paper Co. 2024 Greetings From Around The World Calendar, featuring the January page with a New York City inspired illustration.
MoMA

Rifle Paper Co. 2024 Greetings From Around The World Calendar

Running a team comes with a lot of bookkeeping, deadlines, and logistics. A calendar that lets them step back and see the activities they need to do not just on one specific day, but in one week, one month, and one year overall is sure to help keep them organized. It doesn't hurt that this one from the MoMA Design Store will make their desk setup instantly cooler. 

A mystery box of mini plants

Rooted Baby Mystery Jungle Book
Rooted

Rooted Baby Mystery Jungle Book

Spruce up their desk setup with the gift of plants. These ones are adorably miniature, so they can really be placed anywhere to add a pop of vibrant color. 

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A personalized video message from their favorite celebrity

Cameo personalized videos from Tom Felton, Nathalie Emmanuel, and deadmauS.
Cameo

Cameo Video Message

If your workplace is less formal, you could get them a personalized message from their favorite celebrity. Whether they love a certain musician, reality TV star, comedian, or actor in a show you've both bonded over, there's a good chance you can find them on Cameo. The price will depend on the star, but there are plenty of options. You can read our full review of the service here.

A custom pet portrait

Custom Pet Portrait of a black and white cat named Denzel.
PrintAndPawStudio/Etsy

PrintAndPawStudio Custom Pet Portrait

For the boss whose pet is their pride and joy, what better way to spread some holiday cheer than with a custom portrait of their furry family. They can hang it up at work or at home, and it's sure to make them smile everytime they see it. 

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A reusable bag that can hold everything, and then some

The standard Baggu reusable bag with a smiley face on it and the text "Have a nice day!"
Shopify

Standard Baggu

For lugging all of their belongings to the office and back, stocking up on groceries, and so much more. This reusable bag may not look like much, but it's made of durable, ripstop nylon and can hold up to 50 pounds worth of stuff. Plus, it comes in over 30 fun colors and patterns. 

A combination phone stand and charger for their desk

Phone charging in the Courant Mag:2 wireless phone charger and stand on a desk with a computer, laptop stand, journal, and other items.
Best Buy

Mag 2: Essentials Wireless Charging Stand

For the multitasking boss who works on their phone and computer simultaneously, this gift will be a godsend. It's a phone stand and wireless charger all in one, and even has space to charge their AirPods, too.

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A desktop game to play when they need to let off steam

Portable Tabletop Air Hockey Arcade Table
Amazon

Portable Tabletop Air Hockey Arcade Table

When they need a break from the stress of the work day, this tabletop air hockey game will do the trick. It's a fun, portable way to spend their lunch break.

A mini space heater for cold days

AmazonBasics Mini Space Heater on top of a desk next to a cup full of writing utensils.
Amazon

AmazonBasics Mini Space Heater

If a desk blanket is not enough to combat the office freeze, go for this personal space heater. The mini size is perfect for keeping their hands toasty while they type.

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A nourishing hand cream

Pile of tubes of Nécessaire Hand Cream
Sephora

Nécessaire The Hand Cream

Luxurious hand cream is always a great gift — especially when it's this one from Nécessaire. It's small, fragrance-free, and has an elevated feel as an everyday essential. 

Custom stationery designed by independent artists

Floral custom stationery including a card and envelope
Minted

Minted Happy Dream Custom Stationery

Beautiful, unique stationery is great for thank you cards or random "thinking of you" messages sent to loved ones. But few of us think to buy it ahead of the moment in which we need it. This gift is thoughtful, appropriate, and functional. 

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A mug that keeps their drinks hot

The self heating Ember Smart Mug2 on a counter surrounded by tea making supplies.
Best Buy

Ember Smart Mug2

When you want a hot cup of coffee, finding out yours has gone cold is always a bummer. What if we told you you have the power to help your boss keep their hot coffees and teas as warm as they'd like all day long? No, we're not taking about magic, we're talking about the Ember Smart Mug2. 

A custom leather luggage tag

Leatherology Luggage Tag gifts for boss 2022
Leatherology

Leatherology Deluxe Luggage Tag

These leather luggage tags are available in a variety of colors and come gift-wrapped. You can add a monogram for $10 or handpainted personalization for $40. 

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A beautiful planner they can start later in the year

Rifle Paper Co. 2023 17-Month Hard Cover floral print planner
Amazon

Rifle Paper Co. 2023 17-Month Hard Cover Spiral Planner

The hard thing about gifting planners is finding ones that work mid-way through the year. The 17-month Rifle Paper Co. planner starts from August 2022 and goes through December 2023, so your boss can mark down important dates, set to-do lists, and jot down any other notes for a long time after they get this awesome gift from you.

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An audiobook subscription

the audible logo on a smartphone with earbuds plugged on next to a book
Audible Premium Plus gives you access to a huge library of titles with extra perks. Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Audible Subscription

Whether they're commuting to the office again or not, audiobooks are a useful way to pass the time no matter what they do. As a bonus, it's a gift that can be delivered to them day-of.

Read our full review of Audible here

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The best socks they'll ever wear

Person handing a pack of Bombas socks to another person.
Bombas

Bombas Women's Ankle Socks 

Bombas Men's Ankle Socks

Bombas makes the best socks in our closets. We've been vocal supporters of the brand for years thanks to its durability, comfort, and superior materials.

Another part of Bombas' appeal is that the company donates a specifically designed pair of socks to a homeless shelter for every pair purchased. If you're not sold on those, we also like these $20 tube socks from the Parks Project — which helps fund projects in national parks. 

A towel designed like their favorite city or hometown

Claudia Pearson illustrated City Tea Towels with designs themed around different US cities.
West Elm

Claudia Pearson City Tea Towels

If they're a big fan of their current home or the town they grew up in, you can pay homage to that aspect of them with a cool, functional, and sentimental tea towel illustrated with city maps. 

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Trendy olive oil that elevates any meal

The Brightland Alive Olive Oil on a marble countertop with kitchen supplies around.
Brightland

Brightland Alive Olive Oil

If they spend a lot of time in the kitchen, they probably already know the merits of high-quality olive oil. A drizzle of Alive from Brightland adds a vibrant, zesty flavor to any dish. Plus, the beautiful bottle will look great on display in their kitchen.

Three months of great hardcover books delivered to their door

Hand holding a Book of the Month subscription box in the air.
Book of the Month

3-Month Book of the Month Subscription

Book of the Month has been around for more than 90 years — and it's credited with hand-selecting and helping popularize books that range from Ernest Hemingway's "The Sun Also Rises" to J.D. Salinger's "Catcher in the Rye." With your gift, your boss will get to choose between five new hardcover options the book club suggests every month.

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A kit built for the work-from-home lifestyle

Pinch Provisions Work From Home Survival Kit
Macy's

Pinch Provisions Work From Home Survival Kit

If they're getting tired of their office being in their living room, they'll appreciate this kit that takes a bit of the strain out of working from home. A conference call bingo card, desk yoga guide, and fidget cube are just a few of the quirky (yet useful) items they'll find in this set.

A versatile toiletry bag to bring on their travels

Dagne Dover hunter toiletry bag in a pink camouflage pattern.
Dagne Dover

Dagne Dover Small Hunter Toiletry Bag

Dagne Dover's durable and quick-drying neoprene is most notably featured in the brand's popular backpacks and gym bags, but it's also well-suited for this small bag that organizes your boss's life on the go. It includes a removable air mesh pouch and is available in a range of dusky colors and camo patterns. 

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Desk cable clips that keep cords neat and organized

Two USB cables secured on the edge of desk by Shintop Cable Clips
Amazon

Shintop 6-Piece Cable Clips Set

This small but practical gift will sort out their jumble of cords for good. If you're worried that the set doesn't look significant enough, you can pair a few of these cable clips with a nice card and some candy. 

A way to celebrate the end of the quarter

Moose Munch Premium Popcorn Classic Tin on a table and served into small bowls.
Harry & David

Moose Munch Premium Popcorn Classic Tin

Send them this assortment of sweet and savory popcorn to get the new quarter started. This particular edition contains four decadent flavors of Moose Munch: classic caramel, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, and milk chocolate s'mores. 

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A protective cover for their AirPods case

podskinz silicone cover on an AirPods case set on top of a book.
Amazon

PodSkinz AirPods Case Protective Silicone Cover

Apple AirPods: incredibly convenient, but also incredibly easy to lose and scratch up. A silicone cover is a cheap and attractive way to protect the case protecting their beloved earbuds. 

The newest smart home device

The Echo Dot (5th Gen) with Clock staged on a desk with the weather displayed.
Amazon

Echo Dot (5th Gen) with Clock

Amazon's bestselling smart speaker has an improved sound and look. Whether they want to coordinate a smooth-sailing smart home experience or enjoy music out loud, the Echo Dot can keep up. 

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