Best thank you gifts for your boss

As your internship comes to an end, it's the perfect time to express your gratitude to your boss for the guidance, mentorship, and opportunities you've received! A heartfelt thank you goes a long way in leaving a positive impression and maintaining valuable professional relationships. One of the most meaningful ways to convey your appreciation is by offering a thank you gift along with a handwritten note (this one is non-negotiable)! Here, we'll discuss the appropriateness of thank you gifts for your boss and why a handwritten note and a thoughtful gift are essential to end your internship or job!

Why would you get your boss a gift??

The appropriateness of giving a thank you gift to your boss depends on various factors, including your relationship with them and your organization's culture. In most cases, presenting a small token of appreciation is seen as a thoughtful gesture. However, it's essential to keep the following considerations in mind:

1️⃣ Company Policies: Some organizations have specific guidelines or policies regarding gift-giving. Be sure you are aware of these policies and adhere to any restrictions on the value of gifts.

2️⃣ The Nature of Your Relationship: Consider what your relationship with your boss looks like. If you've had a positive and productive working relationship, a thank you gift is more likely to be well-received. However, even if your relationship has had its challenges, a genuine thank you note itself can help mend fences and leave a positive final impression.

3️⃣ Personal vs. Professional: Opt for a gift that strikes the right balance between personal and professional. While it's thoughtful to acknowledge your boss's personal preferences, it's best to choose something that is more aligned with their professional life.

The Importance of a Handwritten Note:

A handwritten note is a meaningful addition to your thank you gift, and should be the minimum action taken when you part ways. It adds a personal touch to your expression of gratitude and shows that you've taken the time to craft a heartfelt message. Here's why you should leave a handwritten note:

1️⃣ Personal Connection: A handwritten note allows you to convey your gratitude in your own words, making it more personal and sincere. It's a reflection of your unique voice and sentiments, and can solidify a positive working relationship.

2️⃣ Lasting Impression: Unlike a quick email or text message, a handwritten note can be kept as a memento. It serves as a lasting reminder of your appreciation and can be a valuable resource for building and maintaining professional relationships.

3️⃣ Professionalism: Handwritten notes demonstrate professionalism and thoughtfulness. They show that you are willing to go the extra mile to express your gratitude, which can leave a positive impression on your boss.

Thoughtful Gift Ideas for Your Boss:

Choosing the right gift can be a delicate task. The key is to consider your boss's preferences, your budget, and the professional context. Here are some thoughtful gift ideas to consider:

1️⃣ Books: A carefully selected book that aligns with your boss's interests or professional goals can be a thoughtful gift. Include a note explaining why you chose that particular book!

2️⃣ Desk Accessories: High-quality desk accessories like a personalized or high quality pen, or a nice notebook, like one from Moleskine, can enhance your boss's workspace.

3️⃣ Plants or Flowers: A small potted plant (like a succulent, which is very low maintenance) or a bouquet of fresh flowers can brighten up your boss's office space!

4️⃣ Coffee or Tea (or whatever their favorite drink is): A quality bag of coffee or tea of choice, or a nice box of matcha can be a more personalized gift, showing your attention to details and interest in who your boss is! 

5️⃣ Customized Gift Basket: If you know your boss’ small favorites, you can create a small gift basket with a mix of their favorite snacks, chocolates, or office essentials. 

🎁 Expressing your gratitude with a thank you gift and a handwritten note is a very thoughtful and professional way to wrap up your internship or job. It reflects your appreciation, thoughtfulness, and commitment to maintaining positive relationships in your professional network, and your gesture is likely to leave a lasting and positive impression!