Best Gifts for Interns to Show Your Appreciation

There’s nothing a college student loves more than free T-shirts. OK, maybe free beer, but we recognize free booze isn’t always an option. 

Given that college students are most likely completing internships each year, consider which items will make the best gifts for your company’s interns. 

Think about items that will uniquely reflect your company’s values and you’ll be proud to see your logo on. Perhaps it’s a leather padfolio or laptop bag. It could be a funky sticker to place on a computer or stainless steel mug. Or maybe it’s a pint glass that holds a delicious local craft beer. 

No matter what item you choose, prioritize a portion of your budget to ensure your company’s interns receive branded gifts that will build affinity for your company, increase their sense of belonging at your organization, and promote greater brand awareness.

Reasons to Give Your Interns Gifts

Interns act as ambassadors for your company, and many may become long-term colleagues if you hire them after graduation. Gifts can be given in the form of a welcome kit or as a goodbye “thank you.” No matter when you give them, they yield many positive outcomes. 

Gifting benefits for your company include: 

  • Reinforces Positivity. Everyone loves gifts! It’s difficult to feel anything but positive about someone who gives you something useful and fun. 
  • Introduces Interns to Company Culture. Be intentional, so the chosen items give interns a peek into the organization’s vibe and values. If sustainability is key, consider gifting glass food storage containers or bamboo utensils. 
  • Boosts Morale. When company newcomers have items similar to tenured employees, it increases the new employee’s belonging and creates a more positive work experience. 
  • Great Icebreaker. Starting an internship can be intimidating. Interns can find a moment to catch their breath when peeking through a bag of goodies left on their desk. 
  • Wish Them Well. Launch your interns on to their next venture with a solid parting gift that dons your company branding. Consider home items since they may work for a competitor and be less likely to take office supplies to another office.
  • Puts the Company in a Positive Light. Gifts make people happy, and unexpected gifts will make interns even more excited about working for and learning from your organization. Don’t underestimate the impact of a gift or meal. 

Best Gifts for Interns to Show Your Appreciation

The sky’s the limit when considering what to gift your interns, so think about what people in your specific industry use and what the interns are most likely to use for years to come. They’re young professionals who are building their home offices and may be new to your city. 

Gift ideas to help you brainstorm: 

  • Branded Company Swag. Think things like cups, water bottles, and bags. They’re almost sure to be used.
  • Tokens of Appreciation. Things like stickers, reusable straws, or phone wallets are simple to give and helpful to use.
  • Custom Office Items. What is helpful to your intern’s work life, now and in the future? Consider items like a mousepad, pens, notebooks, or a portfolio.
  • Wearables. Let your intern be your best advertising while sporting a branded jacket, hoodie, backpack, or hat. 
  • Tech. Of course, you’ll supply your intern with the office technology they need, but consider little extras they’ll love like branded headphones, a wireless charging station, or a wireless speaker.

No matter which items you select, make sure you include your company’s logo and contact information. A simple Nalgene bottle affixed with company branding will never go out of style, and your intern will likely use it for decades. Consider providing interns with everyday items you love rather than choosing something obscure that may get set aside. 

Use Gifts to Welcome and Thank Your Interns

Professors, parents, and peers will all hear about your intern’s experience working with your company, and you want all conversations about your business to be positive. While a YETI emboldened with your company’s logo likely won’t erase a bad experience, it can set the tone for a great one and help your intern feel more included. 

Intern gifts should be personal and something they’re likely to keep after their time with your organization concludes. Investing in them with custom gifts makes them feel like part of the team and helps build your brand no matter where they land next. 

Let Lettering Express Help with Your Gift-Giving Needs

Lettering Express provides businesses with the products they need to get noticed and be remembered. It’s your one-stop-shop providing the best gifts for interns. Whether you want to give jackets, drinkware, stickers, or office supplies, let Lettering Express help you. We can execute your ideas or take the lead in choosing something interns will be sure to love and keep for the years ahead. Contact us to start your order.