Celebrate a new co-worker or a friend who landed their dream gig with these thoughtful new job gifts.
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34 Genius Gift Ideas for Someone Who Just Got a New Job
Updated on Nov. 17, 2024
A new job brings a boatload of emotions. Of course, they’re excited to take the next step in their career, but stress, anxiety and imposter syndrome can all show up as well. To ease the butterflies—and show your support—shower your friend, family member or co-worker with a fun present.
Sure, they’re the one with a new position, but thanks to these hand-picked new job gifts, you can add the best-ever present giver to your resume. From functional to just plain fun, there’s a little (or big!) something for every employee.
I scoured the internet to find sweet treats, desk accessories and care packages that will make their job transition a little easier. Some of the gear I use in my home office and have personally tested. Other picks come from brands we trust. And a few options come recommended by Taste of Home editors. No matter which gift you pick, rest assured it’s a great way to say “congrats!”
For the Beverage Goblin
OTOTO Nessie Sugar Spoons
Say goodbye to plastick-y coffee stirrers. These Loch Ness-monster-inspired sugar spoons are a whimsical addition to their desk. I use my Nessies every. single. day. to stir creamer into coffee or honey into tea. You can also pick out something from our list of the best coffee gift baskets.
For Your Bubbly Bud
Cheers Gift Set
“The curators did an excellent job collecting items that feel celebratory and festive,” our tester and Executive Culinary Director Sarah Farmer says of this Cheers gift set. “From the superior packaging to the array of products, this box nails it for any occasion that calls for a cheer.”
For the Entertainer
Jack of All Trays
When she has a whole new office to herself, Jack of All Trays has her covered. Choose from an array of interchangeable acrylic inserts, including classic prints, such as leopard and plaid, and seasonal options. Waterproof and food-safe, she can use the stylish tray, which one editor absolutely loves, year-round to keep her desk tidy.
For the Well-Hydrated Worker
Stanley Tumbler
The Stanley tumbler is easily the cup of the year, and it’ll keep your bud hydrated throughout their shift. The large 40-ounce tumbler is made of vacuum-insulated stainless steel, keeping drinks ice-cold for hours. It comes in a rainbow of aesthetically pleasing hues, including rose quartz, chambray and eucalyptus.
For the Commuter
Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack
Give the gift of commuting in style with a glam Dagne Dover backpack. I’m impressed at just how many pockets, caddies and pouches it contains. It has two standard backpack straps—which are very comfortable. They are padded and adjustable for the perfect fit.
For the Fashionista
Modern Picnic Lunch Box Purse
Retire that sad sack lunch for good. Your bestie will be thrilled when she unwraps the sleek Luncher tote from Modern Picnic. Available in a variety of classic colors and made with vegan leather, this insulated adult lunch bag looks just like a chic purse.
For the One Who Has Everything
New Job Candle
Perk up your friend’s new desk with the help of a candle. Made by the brand Homesick, the New Job candle is designed to smell like fresh beginnings, with warm notes of leather, cinnamon, vanilla and cedarwood. It’s like the first day of school but for grown-ups.
For the Pet Owner
Kate Spade Cat ID Clip
The plastic lanyards often handed out on the first day of a new job aren’t exactly known for being cute. Give her a stylish—and useful—upgrade with this Kate Spade cat ID clip. She can hook it onto her work bag for easy access.
For the Meal Prepper
Bentgo Salad Container
A new job calls for new gear, and this genius lunch container is sure to be appreciated. It keeps snacks and salad toppings organized and fresh and even includes an attached fork so they don’t have to make an emergency run to the lunchroom.
For the Techie
Blue Light-Blocking Glasses
Trade in that tension headache for these sleek blue light-blocking glasses. This two-pack guards against glare from computer and phone screens, plus you’ll have one pair to keep at the office and another to wear at home.
For the Whimsical One
Toaster Desk Lamp
Counteract those harsh fluorescent lights with a sweet toaster desk lamp. This silly accessory charges via USB and features adjustable brightness levels.
For the Cubicle Queen
Personalized Name Plate
Most jobs don’t hand out name plates anymore, but that doesn’t mean you can’t bring your own! This acrylic option, with a wooden base holder, can be customized with over 60 delightful designs. This is one of our favorite teacher gifts!
For the Best Friend
New Job Gift Box
If you want to congratulate a friend or new co-worker who lives far away, this new job gift box is a great option. It’s shipped straight to their door and includes a few cheery items, like a clay mug, notebook and mini succulent. What a simple yet sweet way to show you care.
For the Organizer
Day Designer Planner
For a friend who is never seen without her trusty planner, you can’t go wrong with this daily planner from Day Designer. I’ve tested this stunning organizer, and it includes space for everything—yes, everything—you need to find success at a new job. I love the goal tracking, daily to-do lists, calendar views and ample space to jot down events big and small. Plus, with a variety of cover designs to choose from, it’s one of the prettiest new job gifts you can give.
For the Office Clown
Novelty Mug
Your friend will get a kick out of this quirky problem-solving mug. They are sure to appreciate the lighthearted flowchart when they’re in the midst of their 9-to-5 grind. Discover more cute coffee mugs that make great gifts.
For the Breakfast Fanatic
Celebratory Donuts
Donuts are the quintessential office snack, and these “You Da Bomb” treats from Angel Food Bakery will be a welcome surprise. Although flavors vary, you can expect to see classics like chocolate, vanilla and fruity. Talk about a delicious Goldbelly food gift!
For the One Who Works from Home
Adjustable Laptop Desk
If their new gig is fully remote, there’s a 90% chance they’ll spend at least a few afternoons working from the couch or bed. (Hey, I don’t judge!). This adjustable laptop desk will make their setup even comfier, thanks to cool-down fans, flat-top space for a journal or drink and a built-in drawer.
For the Happy Hour Lover
New Job Wine Label
Pop this new job label on a bottle of wine and show up at your friend’s door with a bouquet of flowers—it’s time to celebrate! The label fits most wine bottles and is removable, so it can be easily fixed if you place it crooked the first time. Pair with a subscription to one of the best wine clubs to show even more love.
For the Sweet Tooth
Levain Lemon Cookies
Celebrate their new job with the taste of sunshine. I’ve confessed my love for Levain cookies many times, and their lemon cookie is just as delicious as the chocolate-studded versions. Pass the milk, please!
For the Recent Graduate
New Beginnings Box
Celebrate their next chapter with this sentimental new beginnings box. Packed with a decorative tile and a beautiful mug, this gift will remind your loved one of all the positive vibes embracing them on their new adventure.
For the Perfectionist
Sticky Notepads
The days of boring yellow sticky notes are behind us! Add some color and cuteness to their cubicle with these funky sticky notepads, which can be affixed to desktops, planner pages or bulletin boards.
For the On-the-Go Coffee Lover
Cometeer Coffee Capsules
Maybe they slept through their alarm or had an outfit emergency. (Hey, it happens to the best of us!) Whatever the reason, give the gift of caffeine—even when they’re running late. I love Cometeer capsules for their on-the-go convenience; simply mix them with water or milk, and you’ve got a delicious cup of joe with hardly any prep work. You also can’t go wrong with gifting a coffee subscription.
For the Networker
Personalized Leather Card Holder
While meeting their new co-workers or networking in a new field, handing out business cards can be a smart way to introduce themselves. This chic leather card holder is just as impressive as their business card, and can be customized with their initials and favorite color.
For the One Whose Office is Freezing
Warmies Heated Plush
I speak from experience when I say a cold office is miserable. Help them warm up with a microwavable pal who doubles as adorable desk decor. I’ve tested several weighted stuffed animals, and Warmies always comes out on top.
For the Plant Parent
Succulent Gift Box
We love a good pun. And this “congrats on your ‘succ’ess” succulent gift is too cute. Opt for just the plant, or add on a bangle, lip balm or other small token.
For the One Who Needs Their Beauty Sleep
Cozy Earth PJs
The night before you start a new job can be anxiety-inducing, to say the least. Help them wind down in style with these editor-adored Cozy Earth PJs. They’re soft enough to ease even the most stressed mind.
For the Ideas Man
Desktop Brainstorm Whiteboard
When an idea strikes, they’ll have just the place to put it. This desktop whiteboard is perfect for jotting down everything from brainstorming sessions to urgent action items.
For the Teenager
A “Little Bag of Big Congrats”
Small yet heartfelt, this sentimental gift is a great way to say “Congratulations!” from afar. It’s loaded with a balloon, confetti and tiny tokens to help your favorite first-time employee feel appreciated.
For the Sports Fanatic
Interactive Mug
Make coffee breaks and lunchtime a little more fun with this basketball mug. It includes a miniature hoop so they can toss sugar cubes into tea and coffee, or tidbits such as oyster crackers into soup.
For the Hydrated Friend
Yeti Travel Mug
Whether the new job is in-office, on-site or at home, they’ll need a sturdy coffee mug for their morning brew. This one from Yeti holds 30 ounces and comes with a leak-resistant lid. Plus, it’s available in several colors and can be customized with text, a monogram or graphic. I’ve been using mine for years and it’s still going strong.
For Your Spouse
Felice Bouquet
One of the most iconic new job gifts, a beautiful bouquet of flowers is always welcome. We love the Felice floral arrangement from Ode a la Rose, but it’s just one of the best flower delivery options, according to our tests. Choose a mix of blooms (or a plant) that’s as special as your partner—or BFF!
For the Notetaker
Personalized Pen
A sleek, personalized pen is one of those new job gifts they’ll enjoy for years to come. We love both the custom pen and the optional holding case.
For the Traditionalist
Harry & David Congratulations Gift Basket
Snacks are always a great gift idea. And this congratulations basket from Harry & David is loaded with everything they need to celebrate. We love sending this as a retirement gift, too.
For the Computer Wiz
Mouse and Keyboard Wrist Rest Set
For someone largely tied to their computer, wrist rests for their keyboard and mouse can greatly help stave off fatigue and potential pain. Getting someone a gift like this one tells them you care about their health and well-being.
FAQ
What do you get for someone who has just started a new job?
Simple, practical gifts are ideal for those who got a promotion or new position. Consider easy-to-care-for office plants or a quality desk organizer. Durable engraved pens are another practical idea. Or keep it simple with celebratory chocolates. It doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive; get something useful or meaningful.
What do you give a new employee on the first day?
For a new employee, a gift card for lunch or coffee shows appreciation. A nice mug and card work well, too. A day planner helps them track important notes and schedules.
How do you celebrate a partner’s new job?
Make your partner feel special by sending them a new work outfit or a catered lunch delivered to their desk. Flowers, pens and other thoughtful gifts can add a sentimental touch.
How do you congratulate someone on changing jobs?
A congratulatory note or card is usually enough for distant acquaintances. For close friends or family, a job-related gift like the ones mentioned can show congratulations and appreciation.
