It’s Christmas again, and being the last-minute lovers that we freelancers are, I’ve made a hurried list of gifts fit for that humble professional. Whether you’re a mere mortal who has a freelancer friend, or a freelancer looking to get yourself a present, remember to always put the fun not just in the gift, but most especially in the giving. (Disclaimer: this is in no way a complete list, and may only contain items of the affordable kind.)
Fuzzy slippers
Freelancers are home most of the time anyway, so why not make their stay as comfortable as possible?
Incense, scented candles or ordinary air freshener
This isn’t meant to belittle the humble professional, but we all agree that more often than not a freelancer’s room will smell like stale cigarette smoke, used clothing and sweat. The gift of fragrance may not solve the odor problem, but at least it’s a subtle way of saying that there *is* an odor problem.
Sound activated key holder
A freelancer’s desk ceases to be a nightmare once he’s gotten used to it, but till then, a sound activated key holder will be his savior.
Gift certificate to coffee shop
Let your favorite freelancer indulge! You understand how he feels, so allow him give in to his little vices and let him drown in coffee and wifi.
Gift certificate for massage
Your favorite freelancer deserves a little pampering once in a while for him/her to feel human again.
Homemade treats
If you love to cook, share some of that homespun goodness with your favorite freelancer. And make sure it’s healthy, a change from the usual pizza and fries.
Basket of office goodies
Instead of food, send office supplies – map pins, paper clips, pens and adhesive tape arranged prettily in a basket decorated with poinsettias. Alright, a box will do, too, but we’re aiming for a little originality here.
A thick pad of Stickem Notes
In lieu of effective time management, give the freelancer a good supply of Stickem notes… and leave the organization skills for later.
Wrist rest and/or Ergonomic keyboard
If the freelancer does not already have one, a wrist rest and/or ergonomic keyboard will show not just your concern for his/her well-being, but also your impressive knowledge of Freelancer Anatomy.
Caricature or cartoon of freelancer
Even if it isn’t one you made yourself, a caricature or cartoon is a clever way of showing the freelancer how you see him/her – you can tell him how funny he/she is and get away with it.
Toys
Most freelancers, if not all, have never really grown up. In this case, a child’s plaything will be much appreciated. If possible, get one they’ve always wanted as a child.
Items with personalized/funny messages
Get a pajama emblazoned with “Fat-ASS-tic Freelancer” on its bottom, or a mug stating “They don’t allow IV transfusions for coffee so I settled for this,” or a baseball cap with the words “THINKING” on it.
A date
In the end, probably the best gift you can give a freelancer is yourself. Spend the day together and do the stuff that you haven’t done together in a long time, or just sit around and talk. For the freelancer, in the virtual world he/she lives in, a little human contact goes a long way.
