Holiday Gift Guide

10 useful and thoughtful holiday gifts for your boss that are under $30

Emma Newburger
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A man carrying a shopping bag walks past holiday decorations along Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan.
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Finding a holiday gift for your boss that's thoughtful, appropriate (and maybe even fun) isn't easy. We've put together this list to help you find the perfect gift for your boss.

1. "Principles: Life and Work"

Courtesy of Principles Website

"Principles: Life and Work" is a modern classic by billionaire Ray Dalio that your boss will appreciate for years to come.

Price: $20.40
Buy:
Principles: Life and Work by Ray Dalio

2. Moleskine weekly planner

Photo courtesy of moleskin.com 

Price: $21.24
Buy:
Weekly planner

Moleskine weekly planners help your boss unplug while planning next year's big goals. 

3. Business card holder

Courtesy of katespade.com

Price: $7.85
Buy:
Business card holder

A business card case, which can be monogrammed with an initial, is a simple gesture that can help your boss stay organized.

4. A mini air plant terrarium

Courtesy of amazon.com

Price: $14.95
Buy:
Air Plant Terrarium

A little greenery can create a more relaxing space in the office or at home. Office-friendly plants like air plants or succulents are also easy to care for.

5. Decision paperweight

Price: $17
Buy:
Decision paperweight

A functional and entertaining paperweight will add a sense of whimsy to your boss's desk. It might even help you and your team get more done.

6. Mr. Coffee mug Warmer

Courtesy of Walmart 

Price: $15
Buy:
Coffee Mug Warmer

An inexpensive but efficient mug warmer will keep your boss's coffee steaming throughout the morning.

7. World's best boss mug

Courtesy of amazon.com

Price: $16.95
Buy:
World's best boss mug

If your big bosses are a fan of both coffee, tea or "The Office," this mug is a no-brainer. And unlike Michael Scott, your managers won't need to buy it for themselves.

8. Desk calendar

Courtesy of calendars.com

Price: $14.99
Buy:
Desk Calendar

Page-a-day calendars are always useful and this "New Yorker" desk calendar is a witty addition to any desktop.

9. Go Travel slimline power bank

Courtesy of Macy's 

Price: $14
Buy:
Power Bank

Save your boss's day with this slim and easy-to-transport power bank that will ensure that your manager never needs to scrounge for an outlet.

10. Tea gift box

Courtesy of neimanmarcus.com

Price: $22
Buy:
Tea presentation box

An elegant gift box with a range of organic teas can upgrade your boss's morning routine.

Disclosure: These items have been handpicked by our editorial team. CNBC has affiliate relationships with some retailers so in some cases, if you purchase an item from one of our gift guides, we may get a small share of the revenue from your purchase. This holiday season, the proceeds will be donated to the Council for Economic Education, which supports economic and financial education.

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