Finding a going away gift for your boss is one of those weirdly tricky tasks. On one hand, you want to be thoughtful and professional. On the other, you don’t want to be the person who brings a generic pen set or a mug that says “World’s Best Boss” (unless it’s ironically perfect). Maybe they’ve mentored you for years. Maybe you only just got to know them and now they’re off to greener pastures—or early retirement.
Either way, the point is: you’re trying to say “thanks” without making it awkward. That’s where this list comes in. Below are a variety of going away gifts that feel appropriate but still meaningful. Some are funny, some are practical, and others just say “we’ll miss you” in a way that feels personal but not over-the-top.
Let’s get into it.
Going Away Gifts for Boss
1. Personalized Desk Nameplate
There’s something classic and confident about a customized nameplate—it’s like saying, “Wherever you go next, you’re going to lead.” Whether they’re moving on to another company or diving into retirement projects, a sleek nameplate engraved with their name or title adds polish to their next workspace. Choose from wood, acrylic, or even metal styles to match their personality.
2. Leather-Bound Journal
If your boss is the type to carry ideas with them wherever they go, a high-quality leather-bound journal makes for a thoughtful gift. It’s perfect for jotting down business goals, travel memories, or even brainstorming their next big move. Add a handwritten note inside the front cover, and you’ve just elevated a practical item into something meaningful and memorable.
3. Custom Whiskey Glass or Tumbler
Whether they’re toasting to new adventures or winding down from years of service, a personalized glass adds a touch of class to the send-off. Choose a design that reflects their personality—engraved initials, a company motto, or even a funny inside joke. It’s one of those gifts that doesn’t try too hard, but still leaves a lasting impression.
4. Goodbye Candle with a Twist
Candles make excellent farewell gifts—especially when they’re infused with a little humor. Look for one that pokes fun at workplace dynamics (without getting you fired), or pick a cozy scent with a message like “Thanks for making work less awful.” It’s a lighthearted way to show appreciation that still feels personal and fun.
5. Bonsai Tree or Desktop Plant
Giving a plant as a goodbye gift might sound simple, but it’s a surprisingly symbolic gesture. A bonsai tree or low-maintenance desktop succulent says “thank you for helping us grow” without actually saying it. It’s something they can nurture and watch thrive in their new chapter—just like the team they’re leaving behind.
6. Digital Picture Frame
Sometimes, the best gift is a memory that plays on loop. A digital photo frame is a modern, sleek way to showcase favorite team moments—office parties, team-building trips, inside jokes caught on camera. Preload it with a few good photos before gifting, and they’ll have something personal and nostalgic to display at their next stop.
7. Engraved Pen Set
This one’s a classic, but when done well, it hits all the right notes. A high-end pen with your boss’s name or initials engraved on it feels more like a legacy piece than a simple office supply. It’s a sophisticated gift that says, “We appreciated your leadership,” and will likely follow them into their next chapter—whether it’s boardrooms, book writing, or just tackling crossword puzzles in style.
8. Personalized Retirement Plaque or Award
If your boss is retiring, go ahead and give them their moment. A custom plaque or faux award lets you highlight their career, their personality, or even just their best one-liner in meetings. You can go formal, funny, or heartfelt—just make sure it feels like them. It’s the kind of keepsake that will probably end up displayed proudly on a shelf for years.
9. Travel-Themed Gift Set
If their next adventure involves a passport and a plane ticket, a travel-themed gift bundle is a great way to wish them well. Think passport holder, luggage tags, and a comfy sleep mask—maybe even throw in a little travel journal. It’s thoughtful, useful, and lets them know you’re rooting for their next big journey.
10. Funny Office Award Certificate
Sometimes the best goodbye gift is the one that makes everyone laugh. A novelty award—like “Master of the Passive-Aggressive Email” or “CEO of Coffee Breaks”—is a fun and budget-friendly way to celebrate your boss’s quirks. It adds humor to the farewell while still feeling oddly touching.
11. Executive Decision-Making Coin
Every great leader knows that some choices are harder than others—but a novelty decision coin makes the tough calls a little more fun. Flip for “approve/reject” or “coffee/nap,” and suddenly your boss’s next big move feels a little less stressful. It’s lighthearted, desk-friendly, and makes a great conversation piece in their next office.
12. Personalized Notecard Set
For the boss who always had a handwritten thank-you or a thoughtful note ready, a monogrammed notecard set is both practical and refined. Whether they’re writing to new clients or old colleagues, these cards bring their personal touch with them—plus, they’ll think of your team every time they send one out.
13. “Miss You Already” Coffee Mug
Yes, it’s simple—but that’s exactly why it works. A coffee mug with a sweet (or sarcastic) farewell message is something your boss can actually use, and probably will. Pair it with their favorite roast or a funny team photo inside the box and it turns into a full-on care package in a cup.
14. Premium Office Supplies Set
If your boss is the “everything in its place” type, a sleek office supply set—think polished pens, stylish notebooks, and luxe paperclips—can be oddly satisfying. It’s not flashy, but it’s functional and thoughtful, especially for someone setting up a brand-new workspace.
15. Group Memory Book
This one requires a little coordination, but it’s always the one they remember. Gather notes, quotes, stories, and photos from the whole team and turn it into a collaborative scrapbook or journal. It’s not just a gift—it’s a time capsule of their leadership, their personality, and the impact they made.