Farewell Gift Ideas for Colleagues That Aren't Boring

A colleague's last day is awkward for everyone. You want to say thank you, but the usual mug and card feel like an afterthought. A farewell gift works best when it is something they will use in their next job, and when it carries a personal touch. Here are farewell gift ideas for colleagues, with tips for group gifts.

Farewell card signed by the whole team

Gifts they will carry to the next job

A laptop bag with their name

If they are moving to a new company, a laptop-friendly bag is a gift that gets used on day one. Choose a neutral colour that works with formal and casual outfits. See the bag collection.

A work tote

A roomy tote with a zip pocket carries a laptop, a lunch box and a water bottle. It is practical and suits almost every office.

A travel or toiletry pouch

Good for a colleague who travels for work. Compact, easy to pack and personal with a name on it.

How to organise a group farewell gift

Pick one person to collect contributions, with a clear deadline.
Set a per-person amount that nobody feels pressured by.
Choose one gift instead of many small ones.
Pass around a card for everyone to sign.
Order early, because personalised items take a few days to make.

What to write in the card

"Thank you for every time you made a bad day better."
"The office will not be the same. Stay in touch."
"Wishing you a bigger desk, a better chair and the best chai."

Budget tips

A useful, personalised gift in a modest budget feels more thoughtful than an expensive generic one. If the group is large, one good gift beats ten small ones.