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Imagine receiving an average annual bonus of $456.7 million… one can only dream. But that’s what Elon Musk reportedly rakes in every year, on top of his other earnings as the big boss of Tesla Inc. According to data, the average bonus for American workers in 2024 was around $2,503. But not everyone was that lucky.

People have been sharing the most ridiculous company bonuses, gifts and perks, and some are so strange they’re insulting: a rock, an empty tin, a handful of sweets. These are just a few of the random rewards that employees were expected to be grateful for.

We've compiled a list of some of the most mind-boggling corporate offerings that people received in return for their hard work and loyalty. Bored Panda also reached out to customer service and experience (CX) expert, best-selling author and keynote speaker Shep Hyken for tips on how not to fail at the corporate gifting game. 

#1

Here’s A New One. If Our Store Makes The Most Sales Competitively We Earn A Pizza Party Not For Ourselves But For Our Bosses

Company gifts poster showing store leaderboard for sales bonus, offering pizza prize for advisors.

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The concept of bonuses is not new. Companies have been using them for ages to attract new talent, keep workers motivated and boost morale. Bonuses, incentives, perks and gifts come in all shapes and sizes. Some will really push you to work hard. Others, as this list demonstrates, could deflate you faster than a helium balloon, and might even have you frantically searching for a new job.

Shep Hyken is a customer service and experience expert, an award-winning keynote speaker, and a New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. He’s also completed an advanced masterclass in corporate gift-giving, and was happy to hand out a few tips when Bored Panda reached out to him.

Hyken says the point of a corporate gift is to show appreciation and/or to be remembered. “If that’s the point, is something that is ‘tacky, cheap and insulting’ what you want to be remembered for?” he says when we tell him about some of the gifts on this list.

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    #2

    Little "Gift" My Wife Got One Year

    Gift bag with tag "That's a wrap!" on wooden table, related to company gifts and bonuses.

    Empty gift bag from work.

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    Bored Panda asked Hyken to dish out some advice for companies that are getting an "F" on their report-card for gift giving, and here’s what he said…

    “You do not have to put your logo on the gift, especially if it’s for a client or customer,” cautioned the expert. “A logo turns the gift into a marketing promotion. If the gift is memorable and meaningful, no logo is needed.”

    However, it can sometimes work when gifting employees. “Company swag is nice. Here it is okay to use a logo. After all, the employee is part of a team.”

    Hyken cautions that companies shouldn’t be over-the-top with branded gifts. “That nice quarter-zip sweater with a subtle logo is far different than having people walk around as a metaphorical billboard.”

    “Another ‘no-no’ to consider is blindly gifting food or alcohol,” he warned. “Is the recipient on a diet, diabetic, or someone who abstains from alcohol?” He adds that food and alcohol can be appropriate, provided you have given thought about what you’re sending and to whom.

    #3

    Company Gave Employees Cookies To Celebrate $10 Billion In Profits

    Basket of cookies in clear wrapping with labels celebrating a $10 billion milestone, representing company gifts.

    Give the workers an extra day of PTO a year, or a raise, or working technology? Nah, how about COOKIES???

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    Hyken says a little can go a long way; for example, the gift of appreciation. “This isn’t a physical gift that costs money,” explained the expert. ”It can be a personal note from a boss, especially a higher-up executive.”

    Hyken tells us about one of his friends who was the president of a large company. “When he heard about an employee doing something amazing, he would write the employee a note. He may never have met the employee, but he knew what they had done,” revealed Hyken. “He was surprised that when he would meet them years later, they would mention how much they appreciated the gift (the note). One employee carried the note in her purse, every day.”

    “Time is a gift,” the expert told Bored Panda. “Giving someone a bonus day (or two) off to recognize someone for hard work or work well done is nice.”

    “Consider giving employees an experience,” he adds. “Giving away tickets to concerts or sporting events or taking them out for a special evening, a happy hour, or a team-building outing is remembered and appreciated.”

    Hyken says while money is not a bad gift and it’s almost always appreciated, it’s usually not memorable. “Employees will love getting a surprise bonus or financial gift, but keep in mind that it doesn’t create a long-term memory,” he explained. “It will be remembered as part of their compensation and not a ‘memorable’ gift.”

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    #4

    Happy Nurses’ Week

    Encouragement stone with note for Nurses Week, showcasing humorous company gifts bonuses.

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    Amity
    Community Member
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    When I first saw the picture I thought oh that's a miserable looking cookie.... but a rock? a rock that they probably picked off the ground on their way there? Jesus Christ, please throw it at your boss.

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    #5

    This Will Cover My Rising Rent

    Brown paper with "Fresh & Tasty," featuring a yellow note expressing staff appreciation; example of company bonuses.

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    #6

    Employee Appreciation Day

    Charred sausages in a foil tray with a plastic fork, illustrating infuriating company gifts bonuses.

    Our local Walmart decided to show their appreciation for the hard work working employees who tirelessly work themselves to ensure that the shelves are stocked for customers.

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    You may want to consider moving to Chennai, India if you’re after big, flashy corporate gifts. A company there called Team Detailing Solutions reportedly gifted 28 cars and 29 motorbikes to employees to boost their morale and give a great, big “Thank You” for their hard work in 2024. And we aren’t talking old, beaten-up vehicles. All were brand new, and some workers even received a Mercedes Benz.

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    The company revealed it has around 180 highly skilled workers who hail from “humble backgrounds”. Team Detailing Solutions started gifting cars and bikes in 2022. They select the most motivated employees when deciding who deserves new wheels.

    "We wanted to show our appreciation for their tireless efforts in driving the company's success. We believe our employees are our greatest assets," said Managing Director of the company, Sridhar Kannan.

    In addition to giving out cars and bikes, the company also provides what it calls "marriage assistance" to employees. Basically, when a worker is planning their wedding, they receive 100,000 rupees, which works out to around $1,200.

    #7

    Congrats On 35 Years For The Company! Here Is 12 Donuts

    Finger pointing at a company anniversary note about gifts and bonuses on a decorated paper.

    It’s kinda sad honestly after 35 years they think 12 donuts is good enough.

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    #8

    What My School Gave Its Teachers For Teacher Appreciation Week

    Bubble wrap and candy mock stress relief package, illustrating infuriating company gifts and bonuses.

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    #9

    My Wife’s Teacher Appreciation Gift From The Administrators Who Have Let Everyone Know All Year They Do Not Appreciate Them At All

    Jar of "Chill Pills" with a rose and a thank you tag, symbolizing infuriating company gifts.

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    While corporate gifts don’t have to be extravagant and over-the-top, research shows they are important. One survey found that 57 % of employees polled were more likely to be loyal and continue working for a company that provides gifts to employees.

    But gifts can backfire. 37% of respondents felt under-appreciated by their boss based on some of the gifts they’ve received. 42% said they'd received a gift they didn’t want. An empty tin, a rock, or a packet of popcorn might very well make that list.

    #10

    Getting This As A Teacher Is Degrading. If You Want To Show Us Appreciation, Then Pay Us!

    Company gifts include a motivational note, paperclip, eraser, marble, and candy in a plastic bag.

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    #11

    10 Year Symbol: Represents Durability And Flexibility. My Wife Got This From Work, She's Been There 19 Years. They Gave This And A Bunch Of Other Random Stuff

    Open tin box with message about anniversaries, symbolizing infuriating company gifts bonuses.

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    #12

    For Christmas 2019, My Boss Gifted Us With 1 Work From Home Day In 2020

    A card offering a single work from home day as a company gift bonus for 2020, decorated with holly.

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    Jenka666
    Community Member
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I would assume good intent. He wasn’t to know about Covid.

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    “Even a relatively small gesture around the holidays can help generate a boost in employee morale and loyalty,” notes healthcare media company Health Leaders. “Companies that go the extra mile and try to get their workers thoughtful and meaningful gifts can expect even greater dividends.” In short, your corporate gift can be the gift that keeps giving (back to you) if you do it right.

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    #13

    After A Year Nurse Shortages, Running Out Of PPE, Working Employees To The Bone Without Hazard Pay, This Is The Meal My Wife’s Hospital Had The Audacity To Serve For Nurse’s Appreciation Week

    A company gift of a hot dog with beans and a pickle in a foam tray, reflecting an infuriating company bonus.

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    Bookworm
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That is more disgusting than any school lunch I ever got

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    #14

    The Bring Your Own Potato Bar Hosted By My School For Teacher Appreciation

    Baked potato company gift flyer with instructions for a bring-your-own baked potato event.

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    Jenka666
    Community Member
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I’m starting to think these are all American and have zero budget to spend. I could be wrong but I’m appreciating their creativity if that is the case. At least they’re trying.

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    #15

    These Are Trying Times With High Inflation, Better Bust The Sticker Budget

    Stickers on a table with a sign thanking employees; an example of infuriating company gifts instead of bonuses.

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    Temy Mancusi-Ungaro is the Chief Executive Officer of global data-driven gifting platform Reachdesk. He says personalized and timely gifts are an excellent way for employers to let staff know they are humans that are appreciated and cared for. It also signals that the company wants to invest in their employees’ work experience.

    The expert adds that there’s an almost guaranteed return on investment. “Every dollar I spend on my people, I get $10 in return. The more I invested in my employees, the better my customer service becomes,” said Mancusi-Ungaro in a podcast.

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    #16

    The Warehouse I Work At Was #1 In The Company For The 1st Quarter, Management Promised A Huge Reward, This Was It

    Company gifts include four bags of Hostess Donettes on a table.

    The GM of the warehouse kept going on and on about how glad he was that we hit #1 because he'd be getting a bonus check "just in time for the warmer weather." Also a few suits from corporate came in to "personally and individually thank each of us" and needless to say they neither talked to nor thanked nobody.

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    #17

    2 Billion In Gross Profit

    Office invitation for end-of-year celebration with desserts and donuts, related to infuriating company gifts bonuses.

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    #18

    I Work At A Prison That Is Terribly Short Staffed, 12 Hour Overtime Shifts Are Mandated, And We've Just Been Informed That We Won't Be Getting A Yearly Raise For Cost Of Living/Inflation. This Is Our "Mental Health Awareness Month" Gift

    Infuriating company gifts bonuses: a mental health survival kit with candies and a note.

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    Maartje
    Community Member
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    What's with all these so called cutesy funny worthless gifts?

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    According to online gifting platform Giftsenda, corporate gifting strategy should begin with a budget. “Ensuring your gift aligns with your brand’s core values will help translate the message you intend on sending, but it is crucial to ensure you do not spend beyond your means,” explains the site.

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    #20

    My Friend Got A “Gift” From Work. Chappy New Year

    Company gifts and bonuses displayed as batteries in a basket with a sign reading "Please limit to one."

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    #21

    This Snow Reminded Me Of That Time When My Employer Asked Us To Work In -40 Weather. Our Reward? A Hat

    Blue beanie with "40 Below Summer 2019" text and a charger, representing infuriating company gifts.

    The hat reads "40 Below Survivor 2019" which sucks for a couple of reasons. 1. People literally could not make it in, and I had a number of factors that allowed me to do so and 2. It wasn't at our facility, but another employee of the company actually died in the snow. Your job doesn't care about you. Stay warm and stay safe.

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    Bookworm
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Whole other level of insensitive. 'Here's a hat that reminds you that you weren't the guy who died!'

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    Giftsenda cautions that companies should also take into account cultural sensitivities, conflicts of interest and legal regulations. Gifting has evolved over the years, and companies should think creatively and out-of-the box.

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    “Conventional gifts, like branded stationery and calendars are a thing of the past; making way for customized gifts, experiential offerings and the power of choice,” notes Giftsenda, adding that businesses are using personalization in gifting to make longer lasting impressions. 

    #22

    Our Work Christmas Bonus. Can't Wait To Pay My Bills With This

    Bag of red candies labeled "Santa Pills" as humorous company gifts or bonuses.

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    Bookworm
    Community Member
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    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This one even comes with an additional insulting message about how you need chocolate to improve your attitude because you've been so grumpy

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    #23

    No Money Reward, No Time Off, Just Meaningless Things

    Sunflower-themed company gift announcement highlighting bonuses like a trophy, pin, certificate, and recognition.

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    #24

    Genuinely Ready To Quit! This Was My Bonus For Making The Company $85,000 In February

    Colorful earbuds, a sweet and salty granola bar, chocolates, and hot cocoa mix—an infuriating company gift.

    They gave me rainbow earphones because I'm part of the LGBT community. The earphones cost $2 on Amazon and didn't work. This is a Fortune 50 company. I make gross $45,000 a year.

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    Lyoness
    Community Member
    2 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There's no way those headphones were $2. A buck max. Someone went to the dollar store and tried to pass it off as a reward.

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    Instead of a cheap, tacky, useless or insulting gift, corporates can consider buying experiences for their staff. Think sky-diving, cooking classes, concert tickets, or massages. And if you're reluctant to spend, and think frugality is going to pay out in the long run, think again. There are plenty of examples where it's backfired, and cost a company reputation damage.

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    #25

    A Competing Company Is Offering Us 20 Percent More To Work For Them. Management's Response

    A selection of cereal boxes and bowls on a table with a sign, illustrating infuriating company gifts and bonuses.

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    April Pickett
    Community Member
    3 weeks ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Unless they've been there 25-30 years to get their retirement, I would imagine this company will have a lot of vacant positions. Without resignation letters. Also, their department head can't spell, which would have made me more resentful.

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    #26

    My Girlfriend's Boss Handed This To Her In Her Office Saying, "These Are Being Handed Out From The Company." I'm Not Sure If This Is A Christmas Gift. What Do You All Think?

    A bag of potatoes as an unusual company gift sitting on a wooden bench.

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    Amity
    Community Member
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    What is this, the Irish potato famine? (I just can't help commenting on all of these, its just so ridiculous what people call a "bonus")

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    #27

    My Company Has Given Each Employee 1-2 Bottles Of Expired Hand Sanitizer For "Employee Appreciation Day" 3 Years In A Row. Guess They Had Some Left Over From The Lockdowns

    Expired water bottle seen as infuriating company gift, expiration date 07/2021.

    My husband works in HAZMAT. He's 100% sure it's because bulk disposal of 70% iso is too expensive, so they'd rather disperse it to staff and make us get rid of it for them.
    It smells horrible and I almost never use hand sanitizer when soap and water is available.

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    In 2022, energy supplier E.On publicly apologized after sending socks to its customers as part of a badly thought-out PR campaign to generate awareness around saving energy. As per the BBC, the socks "came with a message encouraging people to leave 'lighter footprints' by turning heating down and lowering carbon emissions."

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    Customers were not amused, with many angered that the cost of living crisis in the U.K. was related to the rising cost of electricity.

    "If you recently received a pair of socks from us, we would like to say we are incredibly sorry for how we have made some people feel," tweeted the company. "In light of the seriousness of current challenges that many people are facing, this mailing should have been stopped and we are sorry."

    Case in point: put thought into gifts, or be willing to pay the price.

    #28

    Last Week Boss Overhears Us Complaining About No Raises, This Week Everyone Get Cookies

    A packaged cookie with blue icing and chocolate sprinkles, representing company gifts bonuses.

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    #29

    After 10 Years At Her Job She Got A Pay Rate Increase, I Don’t Know What We’re Are Going To Do With All This Extra Cash

    Company bonuses statement showing total $23.19, highlighting infuriating gift details.

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    #30

    My "Bonus" A $5 Dunkin Gift Card

    A Dunkin' gift card inside a thank you note, representing company gifts and bonuses.

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    Miracle Max
    Community Member
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I gave $20 gift cards out of my own pocket to my people at Christmas. Starbucks, caribou coffee, whatever they usually eat/drink. And I knew them well enough to know what they used!

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    While the concept of corporate gifting seems far removed from the festive fun of family gatherings, there's a similar thread of camaraderie and appreciation at the heart of both.

    At your next holiday gathering, why not include unique activities that foster togetherness, like engaging in family games that create lasting memories? These moments of connection are invaluable, much like a thoughtful corporate gift meant to show genuine appreciation.

    #31

    CFO Sent Me A Thank You Gift

    Company gifts include Peppa Pig vegan gummies with a thank-you note.

    Backstory: I've been doing the workload of 2 people for almost 2 years now, they just fired someone from my team and my manager has gone on stress leave and long service leave so I've been covering for both of them for the last 5-6 weeks too.

    The company CFO, who I report to, lives in a different state. Last month I had to do our end of month procedures by myself for the first time (which usually involves 4 people) and had to be done on a strict timeline. I worked my guts out to do it, and afterwards I had 973 emails of my own to action that I had ignored to finish end of month. I was overwhelmed and told the CFO and CEO that I was taking a day off because my workload is too high and I needed to mental break to reset.

    The CFO has been making a big deal for the last 3 weeks to the exec team and other managers in my office about how she's organized a nice gift for me to say thank you for the hard work I've put in. The last week she mentioned it to me directly and has been asking me to hunt it down because she couldn't understand how it still hadn't gotten there and didn't want it to get lost etc...

    Today it turned up and it was literally 2 packets of Peppa Pig lollies. I have never laughed so hard, yet been so offended at the same time.
    How would you take this? Should I say something?

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    #32

    Today Is Teacher Appreciation Day. Our Principal Told Us She Left “Surprise Treats” In The Lounge As Our Gift. My Favorite Is The Leftover Snack From Her Southwest Flight

    Assorted snack packs as infuriating company gifts on a dark surface.

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    #33

    After Working 3 Positions And Managing 20 Employees, Here’s My Work Christmas Gift

    A plastic bag containing candy and chocolates as company gifts or bonuses on a wooden table.

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    Khavrinen
    Community Member
    2 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Work three positions, get three pieces of candy: employer math.

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    #34

    What My Hospital Gave An 8 Person Ir Department For Employee Appreciation Day. 1 Kitkat Bar

    Kit Kat with a note reading "Interventional Radiology 1," illustrating infuriating company gifts bonuses.

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    Bookworm
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This might be nearly as bad as the empty gift bag

    #35

    "Gift" From The School My Girlfriend Got For Teacher’s Appreciation Week

    A pack of chicken ramen in a takeout box, symbolizing infuriating company gifts and bonuses.

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    Jenka666
    Community Member
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They probably spent weeks stealing the containers from the local takeaways. That’s effort

    #36

    Love How I Get This After Spending 5 Years At A Job

    Company gift card offering a $25 bonus for a 5-year service anniversary.

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    Glen Ellyn
    Community Member
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    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Actually, this is better than most of these, but not by much.

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    #37

    This So What We Got After “Breaking Records” For The Company

    Pizza selection sheet with various options, offering two slices per person as a company gift bonus.

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    #38

    Received This Today 5/9/19 For “Employee Appreciation Week”

    Expired candy bar gifted by the company, showing "Best Before 12/2018" date on the wrapper.

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    alaina66
    Community Member
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Well....once you start eating it, eventually you won't taste the mold.

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    #39

    This Gift From Administration For Teachers Appreciation Week. It Was A Bunch Of Tiny Trinkets Wrapped In Tissue Paper

    Assorted infuriating company gifts on a wooden table, including dice, fake money, and novelty items.

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    #40

    We Bust Out A** In The Heat All Day In Auto Detail And Touch Every Car That Leaves Our Dealership (Hyundai) So We Sell A Decent Amount A Day. This Was Our Reward For It

    Two halved bananas in plastic bags, representing company gifts and bonuses.

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    Emma B B
    Community Member
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    For the OP’s sake….. I hope this was a joke. I’d be squishing that on my boss’ desk if it wasn’t!

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    #41

    Lmfao Have A Snack

    Fruit snacks with sarcastic note, symbolizing infuriating company gifts as bonuses.

     I barely made my mortgage, I'm a caregiver for a parent with medical bills piling up. I've been asking, applying, and almost begging to do anything in this org that will give me a raise to take care of responsibilities - I got a Welch's fruit snack.

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    Jessica SpeLangm
    Community Member
    2 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Personally, I would quit after I found a better job. And I wouldn't give the old one any notice.

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    #42

    First Day Of Teacher Appreciation Week. This Was Our Gift Bag Given To Us By Administration

    Pink gift bag with toiletries, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, lotion, and soap, as company gifts or bonuses.

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    #43

    I See Your Fancy Lindor Treats And Raise You The 6 Individually Wrapped Lifesavers I Received From Work

    Small company gift with candies and a "You Rock" card on a wooden table, representing infuriating gifts.

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    #44

    Spencer’s Gifts Sending Literal Bricks To Employees As A “Thank You”

    Infuriating company gift box with a card that reads "Building the Future for All" from Spencer’s and Spirit.

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    April Pickett
    Community Member
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    When they gave me a 4"x4" plaque for outstanding service in my job (cashier), I stood in front of my assistant store manager and dumped it in the trash. They should do the same with this or maybe drop it on their foot.

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    #45

    A Gift From Work... To Motivate, Validate Our Efforts. They Ordered 100's

    A blue stress ball with a motivational typo slogan held in hand, related to infuriating company gifts bonuses.

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    #46

    My Company's "Appreciation Gift" For Breaking Company Q2 And 1h Records

    Candy and gum, labeled as company gifts and bonuses, displayed with appreciation notes.

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    #47

    FedEx Showed Its Appreciation For Its Essential Employees With This. Thanks, FedEx

    A hand holding a #fedexstrong card; example of infuriating company gifts.

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    #48

    Instead Of A Christmas Bonus This Year My Work Gave Out Gift Cards To The Company "Swag Store", Where You Can Buy Luxury Items Such As

    Gift card and pillow as company gifts and bonuses.

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    #49

    It Was Teacher Appreciation Week And They Said Dinner Would Be Provided

    Jar of marinara sauce and spaghetti box wrapped together, resembling an infuriating company gift.

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    #50

    Check Out My Christmas Bonus After Making My Company $1 Million In The Last 2 Months Alone. $25 Card

    Company gifts including chocolates and a "Happy Holidays" card on a dark surface.

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    #51

    Girlfriend Has Worked For The Company Over A Year. Here Was How They Rewarded Her

    Certificate for a 2-lb hamburger package as an infuriating company gift, featuring a handwritten "Happy Anniversary" note.

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    Nin Han
    Community Member
    2 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I've been with my firm 12 years and they can't spell my last name right... Never gotten an anniversary gift :(

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    #52

    Store Managers Get A $100,000+ Bonus, Employees Get

    Company gift display with peanut butter, bread, and instant noodles.

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    #53

    Bonus? Nope! Raise? Nope

    A disappointing company gift box with a plain burger, chips, and a cookie.

    But thank you master for my non-delux chicken sandwich, provided because labor inspectors are here.

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    Bookworm
    Community Member
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    3 weeks ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I might find a moment to talk to those labor inspectors after this

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    #54

    Hit Our Yearly Target A Month Early And Got This Instead Of A Pizza Party

    "Company gift earbuds, branded with TD, showcasing Bluetooth wireless feature on packaging."

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    robert copher
    Community Member
    2 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'd take this over most of the c**p in this list. Still not great. :(

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    #55

    This Is What A Got As A Gift From My Company For Successfully Going Live With A Client With 2m€ Contract, Seems Pretty Fair

    A hand holding a glass bottle of dried soup mix, representing infuriating company gifts and bonuses.

    neos933 Report

    #56

    Hours Majorly Cut, Asking Tms To Go Home Early, Retracting Shifts, Requesting Tms To Go On Demand. This Goes Up In The Breakroom. Read The Room??

    Gold balloons shaped as "90" above a table with company gifts, cupcakes, and a sign.

    trisfry Report

    #57

    My Partner's "Employee Appreciation Gift" After Wawa Has Refused To Give Any Pay Raises For Two Years

    Image of a green Wawa tumbler and branded paper on a countertop, related to company gifts or bonuses.

    Askylis Report

    #58

    4 Of My Coworkers Quit Last Week, So Corporate Handed Out Gift Bags. Corporate Clearly Thinks We're Kindergarteners

    Company gifts including candy, a thank you card, stickers, and a medal, representing infuriating bonuses.

    Ghostyvesper Report

    #59

    Saw This In The Breakroom Today

    Yellow sign detailing a company gift scheme offering a $20 Target gift card for perfect attendance.

    inaturtle Report

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    Bookworm
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not even 'you get a pathetic prize.' It's 'you get a chance at a pathetic prize, assuming you don't get an illness or have other unavoidable absences.' Wow.

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    #60

    To Show Appreciation To Employees

    Lego display table for a company event, highlighting infuriating company gifts with no take-home policy, in a store setting.

    Bridgeboy23 Report

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    Bookworm
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Have fun, you can't keep it, clean everything up afterwards. Great.

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    #61

    This Was Our Only Gift For “Employee Appreciation Month”

    Candy basket with a sign saying "We Appreciate You" as company gifts and bonuses in an office setting.

    Adtrluffer15 Report

    #62

    This Is What I Got For Working 1 Year At My Job. They Spelt My Last Name Wrong. Pathetic

    Milky Way bar and 1-year service award patch on a table, representing infuriating company gifts bonuses concept.

    childishgamboner Report

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    April Pickett
    Community Member
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They changed their "gift' again. When I started they would give you a round patch for doing a good job. If you got 10 there would be an extra $50 in your next check. They went to the 4"x4" little plaques (fired that CEO with mega bucks "retirement" money), and now they give you candy bars. I'm impressed by how they've gone downhill since I worked there.

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    #63

    We Were Promised Candy Bars Today For Teacher Appreciation Week

    Bowls of candy on a table with a sign and flowers, symbolizing infuriating company gifts bonuses.

    For context, the empty bowls were from the small bags of Sun Chips from yesterday.

    knram Report

    #64

    The "Gift" Received For Teacher Appreciation Week

    "Infuriating company gifts: Payday and 100 Grand candy bars on a desk near a laptop."

    Owl_Hurricane Report

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    Bookworm
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The fact that so many of these use Paydays or 100 Grands and think they're being clever really drives home the attitude.

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    #65

    The Gift I Got From Work For "National Thank You Day." I Feel Truly Insulted

    Company gifts: a box of crayons, paperclip, rubber band, and marble on a granite surface.

    RazorsInMyTaco Report

    #66

    We Made A Ton Of Money For The Company I Work At, And A $2 Hot Pocket Is Our Reward. “Yay”

    "Congratulatory note about company bonuses offering snacks for ranking in top store earnings."

    jjvarsity Report

    #67

    My Multi-Million Dollar Health Care Company Said They Were Getting Us A Present For Being Essential Workers. We Got A Baggie Of Masks

    A large clear bag containing a white face mask, reflecting on infuriating company gifts.

    Keywork29 Report

    #68

    What Twenty Years Is Worth To My Company

    Company policy document outlining anniversary gifts and bonuses for employees.

    EpsilonHalo Report

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    Heir of Durin
    Community Member
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    An extra four days of PTO isn’t too bad. They’re headed in the right direction at least.

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    #69

    My Job Just Gave Me A Pin Celebrating 5 Years Of Me Working There. When The Company I'm Working At Was Sold And I'm Being Laid Off In A Few Months Because The Company That Bought Us Out Doesn't Want To Pay My Current Wages

    A gold star badge with "5 years" engraving, symbolizing company gifts or bonuses on a blue background.

    Therenegadegamer Report

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    #70

    To Show Employee Appreciation During The Holidays

    Sign announcing a company gift of a banana as a bonus for employees, available today only at the food court.

    RedBombX Report

    #71

    My Employee Appreciation Gift

    Box of cocoa dusted truffles with unappealing contents, representing company gifts and bonuses.

    Frawg_Legs Report

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    The Chronic Insomniac
    Community Member
    2 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Here's an old expired, melted together bag of what used to be a somewhat yummy snack! You're welcome!

    #72

    I’ve Been At This Job For 2 Years And Have Been Working Nonstop Since The Pandemic Started. They Mentioned Gifting Us Something As An Appreciation For All Our Hard Work During These Chaotic Times. Here’s What They Gave Us

    Green keychain with "Thank You" message; an example of infuriating company gifts bonuses.

    ninax666 Report

    #73

    Everyone In My Department Received One Of These From Our Boss. What Is The Point Of This? The Best Part Is She Hand Signed Every Single One. There’s Like 50 People In My Department

    Certificate of appreciation covered with sticky notes, related to infuriating company gifts or bonuses.

    cultivated-mass Report

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    #74

    Employee Appreciation Day At The 3rd Biggest Automotive Supplier, Free Tea Or Coffee

    Hand holding a Coca-Cola cup outdoors, symbolizing infuriating company gifts.

    beforecrimes Report

    #75

    This Employee Appreciation "Gift" My Husband Received. Four Candies, A Pen, And A Sticker, In This Useless Mesh Bag. Wtf?

    Gift bag containing a green pen, three candies, and a sticker, illustrating infuriating company gifts and bonuses.

    YankeesLady44 Report

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    #76

    Found This In Our Break Room This Morning. “Instead Of A Raise Or Bonus, We’ll Give You Fake Money With The Managers Face On It”

    Jaz Bucks flyer outlining various ways to earn and trade company bonuses, featuring a $100 bill image.

    Games_and_Strains Report

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    Bookworm
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    At least you can trade it for real money, I guess

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    #77

    My Spouse's Christmas Bonus From Panera

    Assorted small toys on a wooden surface, showcasing infuriating company gifts.

    Wasteofskin50 Report

    #78

    Merry Christmas! It Was A Record Profit Year So Here Are Some Baked Beans And Potatoes You Can Bake To Celebrate. Thank You For Your Efforts

    Company gifts of potatoes, canned beans, and spices displayed on a table.

    brcnz Report

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    Khavrinen
    Community Member
    2 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "How can we thank our employees for a year of record profits? I know! A selection of foods that are cliches of what you eat when you're broke and starving!"

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    #79

    I Feel So Valued

    Bag of mixed snack items, showcasing an infuriating company gift as a bonus replacement.

    Here ya go - my “bonus” from one of my jobs this year at a grocery store: homemade Chex mix. Yup.
    Because nothing says “I value you” like a baggie of cereal and pretzels.

    SashaPurrs05682 Report

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    #80

    My Wife’s Salary Is Made Out Of Commissions And Instead Of Getting Cash Payment For A Product She Sold Her Company Gave Her Hkd 6k ($766) In Vouchers To Spend In A “Japanese” Supermarket

    Hand holding a stack of $50 Hong Kong gift certificates, tied with a rubber band, representing company gifts bonuses.

    This supermarket isn’t even located in our area and we will have to carry the groceries from far away with public transport or cab.
    PS: in Hong Kong we don’t drive as most of locals.

    Empty-Blacksmith-592 Report

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    #81

    I Present To You, My Reward For Covering 2 Vacant Positions In My Department While Management Has Been “Looking” For Replacements. One Has Been Vacant For Almost 12 Months, And The Other For 7

    Letter regarding company gifts bonuses with unchanged hourly rate, signed by the President/CEO.

    ResidentYam Report

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    Bookworm
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I don't know that I could take this without yelling at someone or quitting

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    #82

    What 5 Years At My Company Gets You

    Happy anniversary card on a wooden table, relating to infuriating company gifts bonuses.

    Due to doxing concerns, I can't show the inside but it's just a single line of text that said happy anniversary from (company location).

    forgottologoff Report

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    robert copher
    Community Member
    2 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    a card for 5 years!? Yikes I remember when 5 years was a pen set, 10 was a party and nice gift, 15 was a party and a nicer gift

    #83

    My Moms 10 Year Associate Anniversary Present From A Retail Store

    A hand holding a framed painting of a tropical scene with toucans, may represent company gifts.

    WinterTheWolf Report

    #85

    My Girlfriend’s Nurse Appreciation Gift From One Of The Largest Hospitals In The Metroplex…

    Toolset received as frustrating company gifts and bonuses, including pliers, screwdrivers, and various bits.

    Spiffy2koed Report

    #86

    I'm Back With Another "Employee Appreciation Day" Gift From My Work!

    Corporate gifts with 'think positive' and 'grateful for you' messages on a bamboo-themed background.

    wade3690 Report

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    #87

    Co-Worker Won This Cup And Bag, As A Gift In A Raffle, During Our Hospital Staff Appreciation Week. They Also Only Alloted Us $12 To Spend On Our Appreciation Lunch They Baught Us. I Feel Really Appreciated Now!

    A blue drawstring bag on a desk, with a plastic cup nearby, representing company gift bonuses.

    Nosloc54 Report

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    April Pickett
    Community Member
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Unless you are really into McDs, etc., a sandwich alone can cost $12, with no drink, and no side.

    #88

    I Left My Old Job After 4 Years, They Sent Me This

    Various snacks and a thank you note, representing company gifts or bonuses.

    dyne-nine Report

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    #89

    My Wife’s 3 Year Working Anniversary “Gift”

    "Company gift for 3-year service with note, highlighting bonuses."

    LasagnaIsItalianCake Report

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    #90

    I Got A King Size Payday For Christmas Bonus. For The Past 4 Years I’ve Gotten $1000 In Amazon Gift Cards. This Year Was Candy And $100 To Walmart

    Payday candy bar next to a gift card, illustrating infuriating company gifts and bonuses.

    Donkknarf Report

    #91

    My Reward For Being Top Sales, Top Customer Engagement, Going Above And Beyond, And Being A Team Coach. Yay

    Four small gold trophies and a medal labeled "You Are A Star," representing infuriating company gifts bonuses.

    Leitheon Report

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    #92

    Our Office Gave Us This To Say "Thanks For Your Hard Work" After There Has Been A Serious Sickness Spread Around The Office. I Would Rather Had A Pizza Party

    Lottery scratch-off ticket with low winnings, infuriating gifts and bonuses theme.

    boxesofbones Report

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    #93

    Mcdonalds Will Reward You For Working 30 Long Years With $300

    Employee recognition notice listing company gifts and bonuses for long-term service milestones.

    Picked up a part time second job to pay down credit cards/save for a vacation and saw this in the break room. This is a franchise, so I’m not sure if this is normal for McDonalds or not. But imagine putting in your 30 years, getting ready to retire, and being presented with $300 and getting told to buy yourself something "special".

    chocolatebarguitar Report

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    #94

    Saw Someone Post The Cup They Received From Their Job As A Thank You For Working During The Pandemic And I Raise You A Bracelet Dollar General Gave Out

    Yellow wristband with "#DGStrong" text, representing infuriating company gifts, held against a dark background.

    trimmerGRN Report

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    Bookworm
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Given DG's general attitude towards labor (great John Oliver episode) this isn't even bottom of the barrel, this is under the barrel.

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    #95

    My Husband’s Gift For 5 Years Of Employment Arrived Today

    Company gifts showing boxes with Swiss Army knives inside, highlighting bonuses.

    jennileeandherboys3 Report

    #96

    Local Hardware Store Shows How Employees Are Rewarded

    Employee incentive board with various small bonuses and rewards.

    _that__one_guy Report

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    #97

    Employee Appreciation Day, Somehow This Seems Worse Than Pizza

    Employee Appreciation Day poster with handwritten note questioning company bonuses.

    _Blazed_N_Confused_ Report

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    #98

    Got Mailed A Pen For A Years Worth Of Work

    Company gift box for employee anniversary with a pen acknowledging their contribution.

    Heavy_Knowledge1371 Report

    #99

    3 Year Gift Bag

    Various small items and vouchers displayed as company gifts and bonuses on a mattress.

    After 3 years of working for the local McDonald's almost 50 hours a week this is what they got me.
    A non working hamburger pen A broken telescopic pipe cleaner I think with a red metal case A card caddy for my phone I can't use due to my phone case An unmarked gift card for Walmart A free cone voucher A free meal voucher A 3 years of service pin
    It's the thought that counts I guess. What do yall think

    tieflame Report

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    #100

    Our Company Is Giving Us Gifts Instead Of Holiday Pay. This Was Today. I Am In A Mood

    Bubble wrap labeled "Stress Relief" as an infuriating company gift bonus.

    Tipjar1992 Report

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    Bookworm
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm picturing some random manager who forgot to order Starbursts and erasers frantically hunting through their office supplies for anything they can use.

    #101

    Today For Employee Appreciation Day, (Which Was 6 Days Ago, Mind You) We Were Gifted… Earplugs That Are Slightly Better Than The Ones They Already Supply!

    Black neckband earplugs on a wooden surface, infuriating company gifts bonuses.

    Sudden_Structure Report

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    #102

    My Bonus For Working 5 Years With The Same Company. Not A Pay Raise, Not Cola. This

    $25 Starbucks gift card with handwritten note, infuriating company gift for 5-year service.

    TheSleepingNinja Report

    #103

    My Christmas Bonus This Year

    Socks and glass with chemical patterns, representing a company's infuriating gifts bonuses.

    Round_Telephone1862 Report

    #104

    We Got Our Christmas Bonus Today. Not Even Handed Out. Just A Pile In The Break Room

    Red thank you cards and a gratitude letter from a company, reflecting holiday bonuses and gifts.

    wchappel Report

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    Nin Han
    Community Member
    2 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Is the bonus... just a card? It doesn't even look like a gift card.

    #105

    Asked For A Raise 2 Months Ago And Was Passed Over For A Promotion That I Was ‘Guaranteed’ To Get After A Colleague Retired. Got This For My 2 Year Anniversary Today. I Also Have A Chocolate Allergy

    A company gift featuring a chocolate bar and a motivational card, illustrating infuriating bonuses.

    lethallyso Report

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    Bookworm
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wonder what they'd say if you were like, 'Sorry, can't come in today, had an allergic reaction because you handed me an allergen.'

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    #106

    It's Employee Appreciation Week At My Sos Work Place. This Is What They Were Given

    Bag of snacks and candies as company gifts bonuses on a wooden table.

    bdubwoah Report

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    #107

    Company Made 5 Billion Last Year And All I Got Was A Candy Bar

    Chocolate bar with 2017 card highlighting company gifts and bonuses, featuring $5B revenue message.

    jedi280 Report

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    #108

    Just Received My Christmas Bonus From The Company…

    Red insulated bottle with "Coles" branding, standing on a metal bench, an example of infuriating company gifts.

    bargal20 Report

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    #109

    A Bunch Of Techs At My Husband’s Hvac Company Want To Quit. This Was Management’s “Gift” To Them To Smooth Things Over

    Blue bracelet with “What Would Jeff Marv” text, symbolizing infuriating company gifts and bonuses.

    reddit.com Report

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    Bookworm
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 weeks ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That will not smooth things over, I can pretty much guarantee.

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    #110

    10 Year Work Anniversary Present From Work

    Gifts of multicolored sticky notes in a black holder on a desk.

    upetewd Report

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    RedRose
    Community Member
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Oooo this would be fun! Post It notes would be all over with personal messages for management!

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    #111

    Reward For 5 Years Service At A Fortune 500 Bank

    Company gift of a black leather notepad holder with lined paper inside, branded with "State Street."

    reddit.com Report

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    Jessica SpeLangm
    Community Member
    2 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This isn't one of the worst ones on this list. At least it looks like a nice leather one and can be reused with notepads.

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    #112

    My Job Decided To Throw Us A "Pizza Party" A Day Late. They Could Give Us A Raise, Or Even Staff Us More Than The Absolute Bare Minimum. Instead, We Are Given Pizza And A Cake While We Work, Not Even An Extra Break To Eat It

    Employee appreciation cake with white frosting and sprinkles, depicting company gifts bonuses theme.

    ItllMakeYouStronger Report

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    #113

    Employee Appreciation Day Gift Where I Work

    A hand holding a plastic bag containing a pack of Excel gum with a note for employee appreciation, showcasing company gifts.

    sprawlo Report

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    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    2 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    An employer who can't chew gum and appreciate employees at the same time.

    #114

    Hits Different When It's A Costco, And Freezing Outside

    Pizza party sign thanking employees, featuring illustrations of pizza slices.

    cappy1223 Report

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    alaina66
    Community Member
    3 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "A slice". I'm not coming to the party! I WILL want more....

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    Poll Question

    What would be your preferred type of bonus for hard work?

    Cash

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    Additional PTO

    Career development opportunity