The Christmas season is in full gear, and many of us are busy preparing for special events, parties, and gift-giving. Many work places promote the idea of giving your colleagues a little something for Christmas, usually through Secret Santa. But what do you get for a co-worker whom you might not know very well, or what can you buy if you have to give something to your boss?  

Buying a present for somebody you work with can be a little bit stressful – you don't want to get anything too personal unless you're close to someone, and you don't want to buy something cheesy – so here are a few ideas for items you can get at a low price.

1. Fun and funky stationery holders

We all know just how messy a work desk can become, so if you notice that a colleague has a particularly untidy desk, and could use a little help, why not get them a cool little stationery holder for Christmas? Anything from a dinosaur memo clip and pen holder, to tree trunk desk organizers – you really can find almost any kind of organizer out there. All it takes is a quick online search, or simply hit a few of the local stationery stores, and you'll be sure to find something.

2. A cute or quirky coffee mug

If you know your colleague is a coffee (or tea) lover, you could get them a mug to keep on their work desk. You can find a variety of different mugs – normal-sized, or huge, colourful mugs, ones with season greetings printed on, or even mugs with motivational or funny quotes (just make sure that it's nothing offensive, or just a bit too rude, especially if you don't know the person very well – you want them to be able to comfortably open your gift in front of the rest of the office, after all).

3. Skin care or soap sets

Sometimes it's just nice to receive something that smells pretty. Perfume or cologne might be a little bit too personal in this case, but a box of bath salts, lotion, or soap is perfect to give as a gift to one of your colleagues. You can find plenty of specially packaged sets at this time of year too.

4. A cool journal

In the age of smart phones and tablets, we seem to have forgotten all about journals and diaries. Although our devices are with us everywhere, and they can happily retain a lot of information and important appointments for us, don't underestimate the importance of a colourful journal. Some of us still enjoy writing information down, and carrying a small diary around. Plus, you never have to worry about the battery dying on you at the worst possible moment.