Secret Santa gifts for coworkers: friendly, useful and safe
An office Secret Santa has one extra rule that nobody writes down: the gift will be opened in front of colleagues. Choose something that would still feel fine if the whole team, and your manager, were watching.
What works at work
The most appreciated office gifts are the ones people use at their desk or share with the team:
- good coffee, tea or chocolate
- a plant that tolerates office light and forgotten waterings
- a notebook, a pen that writes well, a desk organizer
- a mug that keeps a drink warm, or an insulated bottle
- a small game or puzzle for the lunch break
What to leave out
Avoid anything that could be read as a comment on the person: perfume, clothing, grooming products, diet or self-improvement books. Avoid jokes about age, appearance, relationships or performance at work, however well you think you know them. Check your workplace's position on alcohol before giving a bottle; many offices prefer you do not.
When you barely know the person
It happens in every large team. Start with their wishlist and interests if they filled them in. If not, ask a colleague who sits near them one question, such as whether they drink coffee or tea. Failing that, choose something consumable and add a short, warm note. Being thoughtful matters more than being clever.
When you drew your manager, or someone on your team
The same rules apply, with a little more restraint. Stay within the budget: an expensive gift for a manager makes everyone uncomfortable. Choose something neutral and useful, and leave humour out unless you are sure it will land.
Remote colleagues
For someone who works from another city or country, order from a shop that delivers locally to them, and allow extra time. A digital gift is a good fallback. Our guide to a virtual Secret Santa covers shipping and timing.
More ideas by budget: under 10 and under 20.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good Secret Santa gift for a coworker I do not know?
Something consumable and neutral, such as good chocolate, tea or coffee, with a short friendly note. It is easy to enjoy and carries no risk of being too personal.
Is it acceptable to give alcohol at work?
Only if your workplace allows it and you know the person drinks. When in doubt, choose something else; there are plenty of safe options.
Are funny gifts suitable for the office?
They can be, if the joke is kind and everyone can enjoy it. See funny Secret Santa gifts for where the line sits.