They say breaking up is hard to do. But breakups don’t just happen in romantic relationships.
Any time you say goodbye to a good friend, family member, or coworker, it can be emotional. But giving farewell gifts are a great memento to remember someone by.
The same holds true for bidding farewell to a coworker. Whether they’re retiring, changing careers, or , a farewell gift shows the person how much you care.
Stumped for ideas? Keep reading to discover 10 of the most meaningful farewell gifts you can give.
1. Inspirational Plaque
Everyone needs a little motivation in life. Especially when facing significant change. Whether your coworker is retiring or taking on a new job, an inspirational plaque is the perfect goodbye gift.
Choose a quote or inspirational message that resonates with your coworker. Don’t limit yourself to just one phrase!
You can order a customized plaque including several words and phrases that inspire and encourage the departing worker to seize their new life and stay positive. Incorporate your coworker’s personality by adding photos, a unique frame, or their favorite colors.
2. Engraved Jewelry
Nothing says “remember me” more than an engraving. And who doesn’t love jewelry?
Both men and women will appreciate a personalized, engraved watch. Have the company name or their last date of work engraved onto the back of the watch.
For women, you can easily engrave a necklace that compliments her style. Men may enjoy a key chain or cuff links. The type of jewelry you choose isn’t as important as the message it contains.
3. Framed Photo
A picture is worth a thousand words. And when it comes to giving your coworker something to remember you by, a framed photo makes a great farewell gift.
Take a picture of the two of you together or everyone from the office. You can even create a collage of different photos from company parties and other events.
Place these photos in a personalized frame. Small frames are perfect for your coworker’s new desk or create a larger frame for them to display on the wall.
4. Personalized Calendar
Every office worker needs a quality calendar. As much as we use our phone calendars, displaying a physical one makes checking dates and booking appointments even easier.
You can create a personalized calendar where each month shows a different memory or photograph from your time together. This will help your coworker remember not only important dates but your time together too.
Calendars displaying cartoons, , or pets are also uplifting goodbye gifts for coworkers. Choose between a small, desk calendar or a large, wall-mounted one.
5. Mug
Most working adults can agree that coffee is a big part of their day. So, why not give the farewell gift of a mug?
Depending on the line of work, your coworker might like a ceramic or travel mug. Get creative and personalize it with their initials, name, or comical or inspirational quote. Every time they take a sip of coffee, they’ll smile and think of you.
6. Stylish Laptop Bag
Laptops and tablets are as important to most workers as their cell phones. Want to help your coworker travel in style? Why not gift them a beautiful laptop bag or tablet case?
The style designs and options are endless. Laptop bags come in a variety of colors and materials, so choose one that best suits their needs. Tablet covers are equally as fun to design and shop for.
It’s a practical gift that your coworker will appreciate and use.
7. Planner With Address Book
Maintaining a busy work schedule can get overwhelming. Daily planners help people organize their thoughts, appointments, and other important information.
Start your coworker off on the right foot at their new job by giving them a beautiful and useful planner. If your coworker is retiring, they can use it to schedule vacations, lunches, and their next yoga class!
Find a planner that also includes an address book and make it a dual purpose goodbye gift. Collecting coworker’s addresses is a great way to keep in touch.
8. Flowers and Chocolate
Who doesn’t love flowers and chocolate? These thoughtful farewell gifts aren’t reserved for just Valentine’s Day.
Flowers are not only beautiful but smell amazing too. They’re the perfect way to make your departing coworker feel special.
Make a statement and send flowers to their home or new place of employment. You can read more here about discounts that make your gift both thoughtful and affordable.
Spoil your coworker with a beautiful bouquet or arrangement before they go. Sweeten the deal by pairing them with a box of gourmet chocolates. Chocolate covered fruit is another popular goodbye gift.
9. Keepsake Message Jar
A keepsake message jar is a great way to create lasting memories that your coworker can revisit long after their last day.
Ask company employees to write down favorite memories, moments, or inside jokes they’ve had with the departing coworker. Fold these up and place them in a keepsake jar.
Choose paper and a jar that is stylish so your coworker can display it on their desk or at home. Any time they’re feeling sad or missing the office, they can take out a memory to read.
This will keep them laughing and smiling as they look back fondly on your time together.
10. Book of Quotes
Everyone needs a pick-me-up once in a while. As your coworker adjusts to their new way of life, they might need some encouragement.
Gift them a beautiful book of quotes to keep beside their bed or in their desk drawer and turn to when they need it most.
There are many different quote books available from inspirational to funny to Zen. Choose the one that best suits your coworker’s personality.
Farewell Gifts Make Goodbyes Easier
For many people, their job is a huge part of their life. Coworkers quickly become friends, which makes leaving that much harder.
By giving one of these farewell gifts, there’s no way your coworker will forget you or your time together.
Now that you’re coworker as moved on, are you next? Check out our to see if a different career path might be right for you.
