16 Inexpensive Motivational Gifts for Employees in 2023:

Introduction:

As an employer, you know that keeping your employees motivated and engaged is crucial for the success of your business. While salary increases and promotions are great ways to show appreciation, they might only sometimes be feasible options.


This is where inexpensive motivational gifts for employees can come in handy. These gifts are a simple yet effective way to boost morale, show appreciation, and motivate your employees without breaking the bank. From personalized coffee mugs to inspirational wall art, numerous options will surely bring a smile to your employees’ faces and keep them motivated to perform their best.

Let’s explore the best inexpensive motivational gifts for employees we have selected for you.

1. Inspirational Notepads

Inexpensive- motivational -gifts -for- employees

In today’s fast-paced world, losing sight of what truly matters can be easy. That’s why daily reminders of our goals and aspirations can be powerful motivator. Enter the Inspirational Notepads Mini Motivational Journal Notebook Small Pocket Notepads Modern Farmhouse Words Notebooks Set – a collection of beautifully designed notebooks perfect for anyone looking to stay inspired and motivated daily.


If you’re looking for a convenient way to jot down notes and ideas at work, school, or on the go, or want to keep a daily journal to reflect on your thoughts and feelings, these notebooks are the perfect solution.

Pros

  • Provides daily inspiration and motivation with uplifting quotes and words.
  • Small and compact size makes it easy to carry around on-the-go.
  • Durable and long-lasting, built to withstand daily use.
  • Can be used for a variety of purposes.
  • Makes a great gift for friends, family, or colleagues.

Cons

  • May not be suitable for those who prefer blank.

2. Stainless Steel Insulated Travel Tumbler

Inexpensive -motivational -gift- for- employees

These four packs of stainless steel insulated travel tumblers perfectly express your appreciation for the hard work, dedication, and commitment these men bring to your life.


If you’re thanking a coworker, a teacher, or an employee, these tumblers will surely put a smile on their face and let them know how much you value their hard work and dedication.

Pros

  • Thoughtful and meaningful way to express appreciation and gratitude.
  • Sleek and modern design.
  • Made with high-quality stainless steel materials.
  • Easy to clean and maintain, dishwasher safe.

Cons

  • May not be suitable for those who don’t use or appreciate travel tumblers.

3. Positivity jar

Inexpensive motivational gifts for employees

The Success and Inspiration Jar is a unique and valuable tool providing daily positivity and motivation. It’s the perfect gift for any occasion, whether you want to show appreciation for a friend, family member, or coworker or give yourself a boost of inspiration and motivation.


The jar is filled with uplifting and inspiring quotes, affirmations, and messages designed to help you stay positive, focused, and motivated throughout the day. Pull out a message from the jar daily and let it inspire and guide you toward success and happiness. It’s the perfect gift for anyone going through a tough time or needing extra encouragement and support.

Pros

  • Can be used for a variety of purposes.
  • Makes a great gift for friends, family, or colleagues.
  • Small and compact size makes it easy to display and use.
  • Encourages positive thinking and helps to develop a positive mindset.
  • A great conversation starter and way to connect with others.

Cons

  • Limited number of quotes or messages in the jar.

4. Motivational Quote Keychains

Inexpensive motivational gifts for employees

Motivational Quote Keychains are a unique and engaging way to inspire and motivate yourself and those around you. These keychains feature powerful and inspiring words such as “success, “achieve, “goals, and “power, making them the perfect motivation for anyone looking to achieve their dreams and reach their full potential.


Whether you’re giving these keychains as corporate gifts, appreciation gifts, or simply using them for personal inspiration, they will positively impact the lives of those who receive them. They are also a great way to remind yourself of your goals and keep you motivated and focused throughout the day.

Pros

  • Motivational and inspiring messages.
  • Made with high-quality materials.
  • Compact and easy to carry with you wherever you go.
  • Suitable for a variety of occasions.
  • Can be purchased in bulk for wholesale prices.
  • Great for both men and women.

Cons

  • Limited to a specific set of motivational messages.
  • May not be suitable for those who do not use keychains.

5. Temperature Control Smart Mug

Inexpensive- motivational- gifts- for- employees

The Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug is the ultimate gadget for coffee and tea enthusiasts who want to enjoy their beverages at the perfect temperature. With its sleek design and advanced technology, this app-controlled heated coffee mug is designed to keep your drinks hot for hours.

It’s the ideal companion for busy professionals, students, or anyone who enjoys a hot beverage on the go. If you like your coffee piping hot or prefer a milder temperature, this bright mug covers you.

Pros

  • Temperature control technology .
  • Long battery life of up to 80 minutes on a single charge.
  • Improved design that is more durable.
  • Perfect for busy professionals.
  • Perfect for standard coffee or tea servings.
  • Sleek and stylish design.

Cons

  • Limited battery life may not be sufficient for all-day use.

6. Best water bottle with time markings

Inexpensive- motivational- gifts- for -employees

The unique feature of this water bottle is its motivational time marker. With clear markings on the bottle, you can easily track your water intake throughout the day, helping you stay hydrated and energized. Whether at the gym, playing sports, or just going about your daily routine, this water bottle is the perfect companion to keep you on track with your hydration goals.


If you’re looking for a stylish water bottle to keep you hydrated all day, the Arc Bottle is the perfect choice. This motivational water bottle features a convenient time marker to remind you to drink water regularly, helping you to stay on track to achieve your hydration goals.

Pros

  • Sleek and stylish design looks great in any setting.
  • Perfect for use during gym, sports, or outdoor activities.
  • Wide mouth design makes it easy to fill and clean.
  • 1-litre capacity is large enough to keep you hydrated throughout the day.
  • Comes with a convenient carrying strap for easy transport.

Cons

  • Not suitable for hot beverages or carbonated drinks.
  • May be too large for some users to carry around all day.

7. Physical therapy hand exercise balls

These stress balls come in a set of four and are designed to help both kids and adults manage their stress and anxiety. One of the most impressive features of these stress balls is their versatility. They can be used for various purposes, including stress relief, hand exercise therapy, anxiety relief, fidgeting, and tension management.

Whether at home, in the office, or on the go, these stress balls are the perfect tool to help you manage your stress and improve your mental health.

Pros

  • Wide range of purposes, including stress relief.
  • Inspire and motivate you throughout the day.
  • Manage your stress and anxiety for years to come.
  • Compact size.

Cons

  • Limited variety.
  • Not suitable for everyone.

8. Daily quote calendar

This beautifully designed calendar features motivational quotes and affirmations that uplift and inspire you daily. The self-standing easel makes it easy to display on your desk, bookshelf, or anywhere you need a reminder to stay motivated and focused.


If you’re looking to boost your productivity, stay motivated during a challenging time, or need a daily reminder to stay positive, this calendar is the perfect solution.

Pros

  • Provides daily motivation and inspiration.
  • Perpetual calendar can be used year after year.
  • Self-standing easel makes it easy to display on any surface.
  • Sleek design and high-quality construction.
  • Makes a great gift for anyone.

Cons

  • Limited number of quotes and affirmations

9. Bible Office Pens

These inspirational office pens are a great way to add a touch of faith and inspiration to your daily routine. These pens are designed to provide a positive boost throughout your day, whether at work, school or just jotting down notes at home. The black ink pens feature a sleek design with inspiring Bible verses, quotes, and motivational messages encouraging you to stay positive and focused.


These pens make great gifts for colleagues, co-workers, friends, and family members seeking encouragement and inspiration daily. You can even use them as a daily reminder to stay focused on your goals and remain positive throughout the day.

Pros

  • Can inspire and motivate the user.
  • They are perfect for journaling, note-taking or as a gift.
  • Sleek and stylish with a black ink that is easy to read.
  • The pens are made of durable materials.
  • Great source of encouragement and support during challenging times.

Cons

  • Limited ink colors.

10. Funny Employee Mug

Working from home can be challenging, but it’s essential to recognize the efforts of those who make it work. This coffee mug is the perfect way to show appreciation for remote employees who work hard to keep your business running smoothly.


The figure is surrounded by various work-from-home essentials, such as a laptop and a plant, making it relatable to those working remotely. The humorous touch on this mug makes it a great conversation starter and can bring some fun to those working in isolation.

Pros

  • Humorous design that can bring a smile to the recipient’s face.
  • The mug is made from high-quality ceramic material.
  • The size is perfect for a morning cup of coffee or tea.
  • The design is printed on both sides of the mug.
  • It is a great way to recognize and appreciate work.

Cons

  • The humor may not be suitable for all audiences.
  • The design is limited to one option.

11. Motivational Keychain Gifts

 Appreciation Keychains Motivational

Made of high-quality stainless steel, these inspirational appreciation gifts are reliable, sturdy, and strong. Thanks to their fine workmanship and smooth surface, you can trust that they won’t quickly fade, rust, or deform.


These thank-you gifts for coworkers are perfect for teachers, bosses, colleagues, friends, employees, nurses, tutors, and volunteers. The heart-shaped or key-shaped pendants, adorned with the engraved words “thank you,” will bring a smile to anyone’s face and spread positivity wherever they go.

Pros

  • 12 Pcs Office Appreciation Keychains
  • 3 different designs
  • 12 unique motivational texts engraved on the pendants
  • Made of high-quality stainless steel.

Cons

  • May not appeal to individuals with different taste or style preferences.

12. Appreciation Greeting Cards

Mini Appreciation Greeting Cards

These appreciation keepsake cards are perfect for employees, teachers, and caregivers. Each card features “You Make a World of Difference” on the front and a heartfelt message on the inside, reminding recipients of their profound impact on others.


When folded, this bulk set includes 20 inspiring and empowering cards at 2×3.5 inches. They are full color on both sides and are made and printed in the USA. Each card also comes with a semi-transparent bag measuring 3.5 x 4.7 inches. The bags may include extra cards or charms; each set has a beautiful keepsake world keychain.

Pros

  • Inspiring and empowering message on front and inside
  • Includes 20 full-color cards and semi-transparent bags
  • Comes with a beautiful keepsake world keychain.

Cons

  • These are really small but cute.

13. Inspirational journals

Appreciation Leather Journal

This beautiful journal features a well-crafted faux leather binder that is durable and refillable, with acid-free paper refills that offer a smooth writing experience. The journal is designed with a durable elastic strap that keeps it closed, ensuring your notes and thoughts stay safe and secure.


In addition to being an excellent gift for individuals, this appreciation journal is also a remarkable study treasure for bosses, supervisors, leaders, and business partners. It’s the perfect way to express your appreciation for their patience, experience, and justice on special occasions like birthdays, company anniversaries, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and more.

Pros

  • Durable well-crafted faux leather binder
  • Refillable acid-free paper refills
  • Elastic strap bound keeps journal closed
  • Premium paper offers a smooth writing experience.

Cons

  • May not be suitable for individuals who prefer digital note-taking.

14. Mini Jotter with Pen

 Employee Gift - Teamwork

The exclusive design features a motivational quote on the front, making it a fun and functional gift that will make them take note of your appreciation. This employee notepad gift set is perfect for celebrating and welcoming a new employee hire or for recognizing and appreciating your team or employees on the spot to increase morale and satisfaction.


While this jotter and pen set is a great way to show appreciation, it’s important to note that due to supply chain issues, pen styles may vary. Additionally, it may not be suitable for individuals who prefer digital note-taking or have different tastes or style preferences. Finally, it’s important to note that while this gift is thoughtful, it may only significantly impact employee motivation or appreciation if accompanied by additional efforts.

Pros

  • Pack includes 3 writing pads and compact pens
  • Mini spiral jotter notebook with PVC cover and 80 lined pages
  • Includes matching shorty pen with flip clip in elastic pen loop.

Cons

  • Pen style may vary due to supply chain issues.

15. Empowering Sticky Note Pens

 Empowering Sticky Note Pad

These employees’ empower notepads are a humorous way to relieve stress at work, with different sayings and bright colors that easily attract attention. They can help you express your true feelings, bringing you a pleasant mood and making your life and work enjoyable.


These notepads are made of quality paper material that is safe, smooth to the touch and has strong adhesion, ensuring a pleasant writing experience. The funny pens for adults are metal with a 1 mm black tip design, making them reliable, serviceable, and a suitable gift for any occasion.

Pros

  • 12 pieces of fun ballpoint pens in a variety of styles
  • Humorous way to relieve stress at work
  • Made of quality paper material and metal
  • Strong adhesion and reliable.

Cons

  • The notepads are made with thin paper.

16. Thank you gift bag

 Women Appreciation Gift Makeup Bag

A small act or a kind word can transform a person; these gifts are a testament to that. They serve as a thoughtful expression of gratitude and appreciation for anyone special in your life, including mentors, teachers, childcare providers, etc. This cosmetic bag is practical as well as symbolic.

The product is a beautifully designed makeup bag for women featuring an inspirational message. These appreciation gifts are designed to acknowledge everyone’s unique value.

Pros

  • Double-sided printing with a high-quality coating
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Spacious interior fits day-to-day makeup items
  • Easily fits into a handbag or can be carried separately.

Cons

  • Size might be small for some.
  • Not machine washable.

FAQs:

What is a great employee gift?

Great employee gifts examples include personalized gifts that show appreciation, gift cards or vouchers for their favorite stores, wellness and self-care items, and company-branded merchandise or apparel.

How do you reward employees for ideas?

Reward employees for their ideas by recognizing their contributions publicly, providing financial incentives, offering promotions or career advancement opportunities, or implementing their ideas and giving them credit.

How do you motivate employees with a low budget gift?

Gift cards or vouchers for their favorite stores or restaurants
● Technology gadgets or accessories
● Wellness and self-care items such as massages or gym memberships
● Snacks or gourmet food baskets
● Company-branded merchandise or apparel
● Tickets to events or experiences they would enjoy

Conclusion:

In conclusion, motivating and inspiring employees is crucial for a successful and productive workplace environment. With the variety of inexpensive motivational gifts available, employers can boost morale and show appreciation to their employees without breaking the bank. Motivating employees can come with a low price tag.

By recognizing their efforts and providing meaningful incentives, employees can feel valued and appreciated, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction. These inexpensive motivational gifts for employees can be a great way to boost morale and show your team that you care. Ultimately, the key is to be thoughtful and show the appreciation that resonates with your employees.