Administrative Professionals Day is just around the corner and we're here today to tell you all about what it means, how it started, key dates, and most importantly, 21 amazing gift ideas!

What is Administrative Professionals Day?

Administrative Professionals Day – it's like the superhero appreciation day for those unsung heroes in the office. This day is all about giving a big shout-out to the folks who keep the workplace running like a well-oiled machine.

Where and When?

Administrative Professionals Day is celebrated in various countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia. The date isn't set in stone, but it usually falls on the Wednesday of the last full week of April. Mark your calendars for the upcoming celebrations 

• April 24, 2024
• April 23, 2025
• April 22, 2026
• April 21, 2027

History Lesson Time

So, how did this day of recognition come to be? Well, back in the 1950s, there was this fella named Mary Barrett, who worked at Young & Rubicam, a New York advertising company. She saw the need to acknowledge the hard work of secretaries and other administrative professionals. Fast forward to 1952, and the National Secretaries Association (now the International Association of Administrative Professionals) was born. They decided one day wasn't enough, so they expanded it to a whole week. Over time, the celebration shifted to a day within that week, and here we are!

Who's in the Spotlight?

Now, let's talk about who we're celebrating. This day is about everyone who keeps the office gears turning smoothly. So, big kudos to;

• Administrative Assistants
• Office Managers
• Executive Assistants
• Receptionists
• Data Entry Clerks
• Virtual Assistants
• and many more!

These folks are the backbone of the workplace, making sure everything is organized, appointments are scheduled, and the coffee machine keeps brewing.

So, today, we’re presenting you with some amazing gift ideas for them. Let’s head straight into this!

21 Gift Ideas for Administrative Professionals Day

1. Learn an Instrument Gift Course

Picture this – you, mastering an instrument like a pro! That's what the "Learn an Instrument" gift course is all about. Your golden ticket to a musical adventure, turning your musical daydreams into reality. Whether you've got a thing for guitars, pianos, or even the more exotic stuff, this course lets you create those soul-soothing tunes. So, why just hum along when you can be the one orchestrating the melody?

Surf Office Suggestion: Tone Base have some fantastic music instrument courses!

2. Bath Gift Box 

Show appreciation with a luxurious Bath Gift Box, providing employees the opportunity to unwind and indulge in self-care. Packed with premium bath salts, scented candles, and pampering essentials, this gift encourages relaxation and stress relief. The thoughtful gesture not only recognizes hard work but also promotes well-being, creating a tranquil oasis at home. The Bath Gift Box is a thoughtful way to express gratitude and support work-life balance.

Surf Office Suggestion: An incredible range of bath boxes by Not On The Highstreet

3. Sports Shirt (Favorite Team) 

Imagine the joy of unwrapping a sports shirt from your all-time favorite team! Whether it's the thrill of game day or just casual wear, this gift lets you represent your sports passion right here at work. A thoughtful touch that screams, "We know what makes you smile, and it matters to us."

Surf Office Suggestion: Soccer Wearhouse have an amazing range of soccer shirts!

4. Offsite Team Building Retreat

Take the team to new heights with an offsite team-building retreat! This team celebration idea is a chance to step away from the daily grind and immerse everyone in a transformative experience. Whether it's a rustic cabin in the mountains, a beachfront resort, or a cozy retreat center, the change of scenery fosters collaboration and strengthens bonds. Engage in team-building activities, workshops, and relaxation, creating lasting memories that contribute to a more cohesive and motivated team. It's more than a retreat; it's an investment in a united and energized workforce.

Like this idea but don’t know where to begin? Allow Surf Office to lend a hand!

What better way to treat your staff for Administrative Professionals Day this year? Surf Office has had the pleasure of organizing over 700+ retreat experiences for many different companies. Here’s how what we offer:

‍

Des transferts sans stress ? We got you! ✅
‍Un hébergement de qualité assuré ? Check! ✅
‍Engaging team-building activities? Our speciality ✅
‍Réservations de restaurant ? That's on us! ✅
‍Assistance experte pour la planification d'un séminaire ? Of course, we have this covered! ✅
‍Un accompagnement sur site, adapté à vos besoins ? Absolument ✅

‍

Not only this but we also have access to 130+ locations around Europe, APAC and the US, meaning the sky is your limit when it comes to choosing the right location for you and your team.

Réservez dès maintenant, les places sont limitées !

5. A Shout Out From Cameo!

Ever heard of Cameo? A lot of celebrities are on there, offering shout-outs for a price. Try to find out who your employee's favourite celebrity, sports personality or even musicians, and get a personalized shout-out for them. It could be likes of Hulk Hogan shouting words of motivational wisdom, or even a lesser-known celeb your employee loves. This gift screams thoughtfulness, especially with the personalization value. What have you got to lose?!

Surf Office Suggestion: Check out Cameo!

6. Magic Mug 

Surprise your employees with a touch of magic during their coffee breaks with this idea. This color-changing magic mug transforms when filled with hot liquid, revealing a personalized message, logo, or image. It adds a playful element to the daily routine and fosters a sense of delight and connection. Practical and whimsical, the magic mug makes for a memorable and engaging gift, bringing a touch of fun to the workplace.

Surf Office Suggestion: Amazon have a great range of Magic Mugs

7. Company Swag 

Imagine a cool company mug for your employee’s coffee, a sleek notebook for their ideas, and maybe some tech gear that screams, "I work for an awesome company!" That's our company swag for you. It's a piece of the workplace vibe they can take home. 

Surf Office Suggestion: Check out our site, Swagalogue for Swag inspiration!

8. Air Fryer Cookbook 

An Air Fryer Cookbook that's a total game-changer in the kitchen! It's jam-packed with mouthwatering recipes specially crafted for your trusty air fryer. From crispy bites to guilt-free sweets, this cookbook is your ticket to flavor town. Get ready to take your employee’s cooking skills up a notch and some seriously delicious, healthier meals, maybe even for a team lunch! 

Surf Office Suggestion: Try this bestseller out!

9. Wellness Packages 

So, how about treating your administrative professionals to some wellness goodies? Wellness packages are a fantastic way to show you care about their well-being. Things like aromatherapy diffusers, stress-relief gadgets, and fitness gear not only say, "Hey, we appreciate you," but also contribute to a positive vibe in the office. It's like hitting two birds with one stone – a healthier, happier team is a more productive team. Plus, it sends a clear message that the company values the whole person, not just the worker bee.

Surf Office Suggestion: Check out Paz Care for wellness packages for employees

10. Handwritten Thank-You Notes 

Picture this  a desk adorned with handwritten thank-you notes. It's a classic move that never goes out of style. Taking a moment to jot down a heartfelt thank-you not only shows genuine employee appreciation but also adds a personal touch that can't be replicated by a quick email. It's the little things that matter, right? Beyond the warm fuzzies, this simple act strengthens the team spirit, boosts morale, and leaves a lasting impression. It's like a verbal high-five, and who doesn't love a good high-five?

11. Virtual Celebration 

Can't gather in person? No problem! Bring the celebration to them virtually. Picture a virtual bash with games, a video message, or even an online recognition ceremony. It's like a digital fiesta that says, "You're a crucial part of this team, and we're celebrating you!" Besides being a ton of fun, virtual celebrations bridge the gap in remote work, fostering a sense of togetherness. It's a modern twist on employee appreciation that leaves your administrative professionals feeling connected and valued.

12. Kitchen Gadgets 

Bring innovation and efficiency to employees' home kitchens with a selection of cutting-edge kitchen gadgets. From smart appliances to versatile utensils, these gadgets streamline cooking processes, saving time and effort. This practical gift not only adds convenience to daily routines but also showcases the employer's consideration for work-life balance. Kitchen gadgets make for a thoughtful and functional gift, contributing to a sense of appreciation and making employees' lives outside of work a little more enjoyable.

Surf Office Suggestion: Wonderchef has your back on this one!

13. Upgraded Office Furniture 

Elevate the work environment and enhance employee comfort with upgraded office furniture. Whether it's ergonomic chairs, standing desks, or modern desk accessories, investing in the workspace demonstrates a commitment to employee satisfaction and productivity. Upgraded office furniture not only provides physical comfort but also boosts morale and creates a positive atmosphere. This thoughtful gift reflects an understanding of the importance of a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing workspace in fostering a motivated and content workforce.

Surf Office Suggestion: Some great modern office furnishings here!

14. Water Bottle 

Encourage a healthy lifestyle among your employees with a sleek and durable water bottle. This practical gift promotes hydration throughout the workday, contributing to overall well-being and productivity. The water bottle can be customized with your company logo, serving as a constant reminder of the employer's commitment to employee health. A stylish and eco-friendly accessory, it reflects a thoughtful approach to employee welfare, making it a valuable and appreciated corporate gift.

Surf Office Suggestion: Zazzle have got the right idea here!

15. Coffee Break Gift Box 

Fuel productivity and boost morale with the Coffee Break Gift Box. Curated with high-quality coffee blends, gourmet snacks, and stylish mugs, this gift is designed to elevate the coffee break experience. Employees can enjoy a moment of rejuvenation, savoring delicious treats while taking a break from their tasks. The Coffee Break Gift Box not only acknowledges dedication but also fosters a positive and energized work environment, making it an ideal token of appreciation for hardworking teams.

Surf Office Suggestion: Incredible coffee box set here!

16. Subscription Services 

Gift them a subscription to something they love! Magazines, streaming services, or book clubs tailored to their interests – it's like giving the gift of joy that keeps on giving. These subscriptions offer a break from the work grind, allowing your administrative professionals to unwind and indulge in their favorite pastimes. Also, a lot of these subscription services aren’t cheap, so what a fantastic way to build a company culture of care about finances. It's a thoughtful way to show appreciation for their individuality and interests, creating a workplace where personal well-being is as important as professional success.

Surf Office Suggestion: Spotify is always a great shout!

17. Cartoon Caricature Pictures 

Hold up – ever wished you could be your own cartoon character? Cartoon Caricature Pictures make that dream come true. These aren't just drawings; they're personalized masterpieces with a dose of humor. Imagine hanging your animated alter ego on the wall, a daily reminder that work can be fun too. A creative spin on your personality. Each stroke captures your quirks, making it a quirky, timeless reminder that being a bit goofy is what makes you, well, you.

Surf Office Suggestion: Try these guys for personalised cartoon caricature!

18. Grocery Delivery 

Feeling the daily grind? How about we take one thing off your plate – literally! A grocery delivery gift is the ultimate random act of kindness idea. Imagine having your groceries magically appear at your door. This shows how much you care about the finances of your employees during difficult times. It's the little things that make work feel more like a family.

Surf Office Suggestion: Choose a supermarket or grocery store close to you and order online

19. Flexibility or Time Off 

Sometimes, the best gift is the gift of time. Offering a half-day or a full day off as a gesture of appreciation speaks volumes. It says, "You've been rocking it, now go recharge those batteries!" This kind of flexibility acknowledges the hard work and dedication your administrative professionals bring to the table. It's a tangible way to show that the company understands the importance of work-life balance, resulting in refreshed and motivated team members ready to tackle challenges with renewed energy.

20. Professional Development Opportunities 

Let's talk growth – professional growth, that is. Investing in workshops, conferences, or online courses for your admin squad is like giving them the keys to a treasure chest of knowledge. This is a perfect idea for building a great relationship with your squad! You get a team that's not just up-to-date but ahead of the game. They'll be more engaged, satisfied, and ready to tackle whatever challenges come their way. It's a win-win, don't you think?

Surf Office Suggestion: Coursera has great courses for career development!

21. Zed Garden Kit 

Imagine this – a Zed Garden Kit, not just your usual soil and seeds deal. It's like a green therapy session for your desk or balcony, bringing the chill vibes of a garden right into your workspace. A friendly nudge to take a break, nurture a tiny green corner, and watch it bloom. Perfect for those moments when you need a breather from the daily grind. The Zed Garden Kit is like a mini escape button – a connection with nature amid all the work chaos.

‍Surf Office Suggestion: Check this out!