30 Ideal Father’s Day Gifts for Employees 2025

Easy & Practical Tips for Buying Father’s Day Gifts for Your Staff

Let’s be honest — buying Father’s Day gifts for employees can be a bit of a minefield. You want something practical, not awkward. Thoughtful, but not over-the-top. And most of all? Something that won’t end up in the back of a drawer by next week.

Here are some practical, foolproof tips to help you choose gifts that dads on your team will genuinely enjoy (and maybe even brag about).

Know Your Employees

A meaningful gift starts with knowing who’s on your team. You see your staff every day — take notice of the little things. Their hobbies, how they take their coffee, the footy team they support, or what they talk about on Monday mornings. These clues can point you toward gifts that feel thoughtful and personal.

Example: If someone is always carrying a keep cup and knows their single-origin beans from their blends, a bag of coffee from a local roaster or a new hand grinder could hit the mark.

Be Mindful of Cultural & Religious Differences

In a multicultural workplace, one gift doesn’t suit all. Take care to avoid items that might conflict with someone’s values, beliefs, or lifestyle. That could include particular food or drink items, language on packaging, or even the assumption that everyone celebrates Father’s Day in the same way.

Good practice: If in doubt, opt for gifts that are neutral, inclusive, and practical. You can still make them meaningful without being overly personal.

Don’t Give Everyone the Same Gift (If You Can Help It)

Giving everyone the same gift might be efficient, but it can feel somewhat impersonal, especially in smaller teams where individual recognition is valued. Choosing different gifts based on interests or offering a small selection for staff to choose from shows genuine thought and appreciation. Even minor tweaks, such as adding a handwritten note, can make a simple gift feel more personal.

Tip: Create a shortlist of 3–5 gift options to allow staff to choose what suits them best.

Consider Their Needs

Sometimes, the most appreciated gifts are those that make life just a bit easier, whether at work or at home. Consider tools or items that are both practical and helpful, particularly for busy working parents.

Gift ideas: A brilliant planner, a double-insulated travel mug, noise-cancelling earbuds for a smoother commute, or even a simple charging dock for their devices.

Quality Over Quantity

It’s not about how much you give — it’s about choosing one thing with care and purpose. A well-made gift demonstrates your appreciation for your team’s contributions. On the other hand, a bundle of impersonal items (or another branded stress ball) won’t leave the same impression.

Tip: Stick to durable materials like stainless steel, leather, or sustainably sourced timber, and avoid “one-size-fits-all” gimmicks.

Ask Around — Discreetly

If you’re unsure what someone might like, ask someone they work closely with. Peer input can be invaluable, especially for new employees or those working in large teams. Just ensure the process is respectful and preserves the surprise intact.

Tip: A quick, casual check-in with a colleague can reveal great ideas you’d never have thought of — like that they’re into vinyl records, or that they always go fishing on the weekend.