The office Diwali ‘no-gift’ list: 10 gifts employees are tired of getting

Generic Sweets Boxes
Sure, a box of kaju katli or chocolate is traditional, but employees online say it’s becoming predictable. “Every year, the same Mithai box lands on my desk,” wrote a Reddit user. "I end up gifting half of it to someone else or letting it sit until it goes stale", he shares. Sweets are nice, but the internet suggests opting for handmade treats, local bakeries, or personal favourites instead of the same branded packs every year. (Image: Canva)

Branded Office Diaries and Notebooks
A practical thought, but many employees already have diaries or digital calendars. “I got three notebooks last year and one is still unopened,” one LinkedIn commenter said. Netizens argue, if it’s a diary, it should match the employee’s style, or include customisation options, not just a logo and “Happy Diwali” printed in bold. (Image: Canva)

Cheap Pens / Pen Sets
Classic corporate gifts, yes — but many office workers find these low-quality pens useless. A Reddit thread joked, “I now own 15 pens that don’t write — thanks, HR.”
Employees suggest upgrading to quality pens or practical stationery rather than mass-produced freebies. (Image: Canva)

Generic Coffee Mugs
Mugs with “Best Employee” or “Happy Diwali” printed on them are everywhere, but often end up as dust collectors. “My cupboard is full of mugs that I’ll never use,” someone said on X. Instead, netizens recommend personalised mugs or reusable tumblers — functional, eco-friendly, and less disposable. (Image: Canva)

Desk or Home Décor Items
Small idols, scented candles, or motivational trinkets may look cute, but taste is subjective. Reddit users laugh about receiving “a neon LED Buddha for my neutral-coloured desk” or “mini flower pots that never bloom.” People now prefer gifts that fit their workspace aesthetic or lifestyle, not just “cute items for the sake of gifting.” (Image: Canva)

Perfumes / Body Sprays
Mini fragrances are trendy, but netizens caution that they’re highly personal. “You don’t know if I like floral or citrus, and what if I’m allergic?” wrote one office worker. Instead, companies could opt for unscented, practical gift sets or experience vouchers — safer and more universally appreciated. (Image: Canva)

Chocolates You Can Buy Anywhere
While chocolate is sweet, netizens note a saturation problem. "Every year, I get a Hershey’s, a Lindt, and a Cadbury — at this point, I’m giving them to my dog", jokes an Instagram user. One could opt for artisan chocolates, exotic flavours, or DIY chocolate kits to make the gift feel special, another user suggests. (Image: Canva)

Random Apparel: Socks, Scarves, or Tees
Well-meaning, but problematic. “I got a woollen scarf in summer — thanks but no thanks,” one user tweeted. Getting the size right is tricky, styles differ, and preferences vary. Netizens recommend gift vouchers for apparel, or items with a one-size-fits-all approach, like a unisex hoodie or eco-friendly wrap. (Image: Canva)

“Just Something Small” Tokens
Keychains, fridge magnets, and miniature gadgets often feel like afterthoughts. 'Appreciate the thought, but I don’t need clutter,' one Reddit comment reads. Employees increasingly value practical or experiential gifts— vouchers, subscriptions, or something they can actually use at home or office. (Image: Canva)

Recycled / Duplicate Gifts
Many employees complain about receiving the same items year after year. One thread on LinkedIn had users sharing photos of three identical mugs and two notebooks received consecutively. Netizens advise tracking past gifts, adding variety, or focusing on personalised experiences rather than repetitive items. (Image: Canva)