Bosses, mentors, and friends all play important roles in our lives. They provide guidance, advice, and support at crucial points in our careers. However, giving gifts can be challenging for those in a junior or senior role who does not have extensive access to their manager or mentor’s likes and dislikes.
If you’re having trouble coming up with ideas for that special someone in your life who has helped you grow professionally or personally, this article will give you some insight into the types of gifts they might like.
Each person is different, but there are universal things that anyone would appreciate receiving as a gift. Not all of these ideas will work for every person you know. However, one of them will probably be perfect for the individual in your life whom you want to show appreciation for.
A Book You Think They Would Enjoy
If you know what types of books your manager or mentor likes, you can find a new or used book that they will enjoy reading.
Ask them what type of books they enjoy so you can find one that is related to their field or interests. For example, if they like history, then a book is usually one of the best gifts for history buffs.
If they are a manager or mentor and they have been promoted recently, you can find a book that is related to their new position. You can also find a book that will help you become a better or more effective employee or person.
You can find many books online that are related to different topics, such as time management, effective communication, or dealing with stress.
A Little Something to Show Your Appreciation
People in a mentor or senior position often receive gifts from their juniors, but they may not feel comfortable accepting them.
A gift is a wonderful way to show your appreciation, but it also sends a message that you shouldn’t feel guilty if you don’t accept any gifts. Most managers and mentors would gladly accept a gift but don’t want to offend you by accepting something. A gift doesn’t have to be expensive.
A coffee mug with your manager’s or mentor’s name on it or a gift card to their favorite coffee shop is a nice way to show your appreciation. A book that has helped you in your career or that you think will help them is another nice gift.
You can also gift a subscription to a magazine that they like, or that is related to their field. For someone who is close to you, like a boss or mentor, a small gift is perfect. It shows them that you appreciate their help, but it doesn’t put them in an awkward position of having to refuse a gift.
A Coffee or Tea Maker
If you know someone who is a coffee or tea drinker, a coffee or tea maker is a great gift. It will allow them to make their favorite beverage at home and when they want it, without having to go to a coffee shop or buy it pre-made.
There are many styles available, so you can choose one that matches the person’s décor or kitchen style. Plus, many models have features that make them easier to use and clean. For example, some models have built-in timers, self-cleaning features, or water filters that make making coffee or tea easier and less messy.
If you are close to your manager or mentor, you can use this gift as an opportunity to have a conversation about the goals and challenges they face in their work and life. You can ask them what drink they would like to be able to brew at home or what features they would like in a coffee or tea maker.
At the same time, you can open up the conversation about things that are important to your manager and mentor. You may want to ask them about things related to their family, challenges they are facing at work, or other topics that help you get to know them better.
A Nice Watch
Most people appreciate a nice watch, but it can be challenging to find one that fits a person’s style and budget. If you know that your manager or mentor likes watches, you can look for a high-quality model that they will love.
You can find many watches online that allow you to buy one online and have it shipped directly to the person. Another option is to go to an outlet store that sells watches, like Costco. You can find many high-quality watches there at a much lower price than you would pay for a comparable watch at a jewelry store.
If your manager or mentor wears a watch now, you can ask them about their current model, including the brand, style, and features it has. This will help you find a model that they will like and appreciate.
New Stationery or Office Supplies
Whether you work with your manager or mentor directly or not, you may notice that they use paper, pens, or other office supplies on a regular basis. If this is the case, a set of new and stylish pens, a new notebook, or other office supplies is a great gift idea.
You can find many sets of pens online or in office supply stores that come in a variety of colors and styles. You can also find many notebook styles and brands online, as well as in office supply stores. Or, you can pick a notebook that matches the person’s style, and that is likely to last for many years.
If your manager or mentor is not picky about brands and styles, you can buy a classic notebook or pen set. This will allow you to get something that is useful but not overly expensive.
The Meal
If you work with your manager or mentor regularly, you may notice that they eat out a lot or that they don’t have time to make healthy meals. You can offer to pay for a meal that they can enjoy in the comfort of their home or wherever they prefer to eat.
You can do this with a group of coworkers who have noticed the same thing through their eating habits. Having a group gift is even better because it allows you to pick where the two of you will go to eat.
If you are close to your manager or mentor, you could consider inviting them to eat with you. You can invite them to your home or invite them to eat with you at their favorite restaurant.
Conclusion
Giving someone a gift doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot of money. In fact, some of the best gifts come in small packages that cost little or nothing at all.
While you may be tempted to splurge on an expensive gift for your boss or mentor, it is important to remember that they didn’t earn their position because they have tons of money.
They earned it through hard work and dedication to their field. The best gifts you can give a manager or mentor are the ones that show you care about them and their well-being, such as their health and happiness. You can do this by giving them a gift that they will genuinely appreciate.
