Gift ideas that will earn you “colleague of the year”

Whether your workplace supports the burgeoning Secret Santa movement or you just want to offer a token of appreciation to the great folks you work with, finding that perfect little something should be part of the festivities and not the frustration of the holiday season.

But with so many options and so little time, what is a busy gift-giver to do? As with any other project, it’s good to approach the task with a plan. Staples spokesperson Alessandra Saccal recommends you make a list and check it twice before you hit the shops in order to avoid missing anyone or making any spontaneous splurges that can cause havoc on the holiday budget.

Luckily, Staples has a wide selection ranging in price from $20 to $50, offering loads of options for all the people and personalities on your list. Here are just a few ideas:

For the techno-phobe: We all know people for whom technology is a necessary evil – probably  the person with an actual notebook and not a digital version at the meeting, or the one who doesn’t text back because, well, talking works, too. If this is the name you drew in the Secret Santa lottery you’re in luck – what about a Parker or Cross pen with which to glide over the pages? There are even fountain pen versions for truly tech-averse.

For the life of the party: This will be the person who willingly takes on the task of planning the summer barbeque or holiday gala, or who makes sure the Twizzlers are in good supply during meetings. How about something from the Umbra Buddy collection? From picture frames to drinking buddy charms and topper sets, Umbra Buddy has a great selection of quirky and cute gift ideas.

For the quiet one: Open concept work spaces are a great idea and a boon to collegial atmospheres but sometimes we all need a break from the hubbub or an opportunity to focus on the task at hand. Sennheiser Ear buds offer powerful sound and deep bass for an enhanced listening experience, plus they offer four adapter sizes (XS, S, M, L) for effective noise blocking while listening to a favourite artist. Or nothing at all.

For the morning person (or even for the very-much-not-a-morning person): Colleagues who appreciate a jolt of java to start their mornings will love a Keurig coffee maker -- choose from a range of Keurigs that provide smart styling, advanced features and brew a delicious cup of coffee at the touch of a button.

For the socializer:  Give this vibrant team player a chance to turn the work station into a pop stand or improve on gatherings around the water cooler. With SodaStream, freshly made soda is on tap and there’s an array of flavoured syrups to please almost any palate.

This is just a smattering of the great options available at Staples – so you can be the company’s favourite Santa at stocking-stuffer prices.

By Michelle Janzso

November 13, 2015

Staples Canada