The 2020 holidays are upon us and while this year’s celebrations might look a little different than prior years’, the spirit of the season remains the same. In keeping with that holiday spirit, it’s time to think about the gifts you plan on gifting those special people in your life.
While neckties and fancy pens might have been your go-to in years past, this year, you’re determined to give gifts that are useful and that extend your gratitude for your coworkers, employer, employees, and colleagues. We’re here to help you. Whether you’re looking for a stocking stuffer or a big splurge, we’ve listed 10 gift suggestions for any budget size.
Home Office Upgrade Gifts
Help make remote work more comfortable with these practical gifts anyone working from home will appreciate.
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1. Blue Light Blocking Glasses
The year is 2020 but thanks to endless hours of staring at our computer and smartphone screens, our vision might not be. The increased blue light exposure from screens can be taxing on the eyes. Help fight eye strain and fatigue with the gift of blue light blocking glasses. Here are 7 of the best blue light glasses according to Forbes with some as low as $40.
2. Back Support for Desk Chair
Long hours of sitting at work can mean unbearable back pain. Show your friend that you’ve got their back – literally – by gifting them a lumbar support pillow. Most support pillows are made of memory foam and provide a more comfortable seating arrangement for lawyers who work long hours. Here are some recommended pillows according to The New York Times. Prices range from $18.49 to $29.95.
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3. Noise-cancelling Headphones
Working from home also means working with others around. Whether it’s crying babies, chatty family members, or noisy neighbors, it can be difficult focusing on work with noise all around. If the lawyer in your life can benefit from peace and quiet while working, then noise-cancelling headphones will provide that much needed silence. We recommend these Bose headphones on Amazon starting at $269.00.
Boost Professional Development
Want to win favor with your colleagues or associates for helping improve various aspects of their professional lives? Look into the following gifts that will support any lawyer’s professional development.
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4. WordRake: Quick and Accurate Editing for Clarity and Brevity
You already know this is on our list! Every writer wishes for more time to edit—and a colleague to help. Unfortunately, everyone is rushed so it’s tough to find time to edit your work or anyone else’s. Give the gift of quick and accurate editing in Microsoft Word and Outlook with WordRake. WordRake is a great gift for any lawyers who wishes to tighten, clarify, and strengthen their legal writing. Inspired? Get the gift of WordRake. WordRake for Word is available for Mac or Windows for $129 per year and you can add WordRake for Outlook on Windows if you opt for the bundle at $199 per year.
5. The Client-Centered Law Firm: How to Succeed in an Experience-Driven World by Jack Newton
You can’t go wrong with gifting a good book. The Client-Centered Law Firm, by legal technology expert, CEO and Co-Founder of Clio practice management, Jack Newton, offers insight and practice guidance for providing client-centered experiences in today’s legal market. You can find Jack's book on Amazon in paperback for $19.99.
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6. Mitch Jackson’s Top Secret Partner consulting service
For a new or young lawyer, why not give them the gift of confidence and mentorship? Award-winning trial lawyer, Mitch Jackson, is making his 30 plus years of experience and knowledge available to lawyers through his new consulting service, Top Secret Partner. Mitch acts as a personal partner for new lawyers who can tap into his knowledge and experience and ask all the questions new lawyers are often too timid to ask of partners lest they look unprepared or clueless. Mitch has created a safe and private space for lawyers to call, text, or email with questions about the practice of law, the business or law, or anything career related. Plans starting at $75/month. Find more information here.
Get Ready to Shine Online
While no one knows what the future of work will look like, there is no doubt that tools that keep people collaborating online will remain vital. With these gift ideas, your recipient can stay connected even while working remotely.
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7. Zoom Video Conference Subscription
Most lawyers are working from home these days so connecting with clients, colleagues, and friends through video communications has become essential. Gift your favorite lawyer an annual subscription to the Zoom video conferencing services and help them stay connected to those who impact their lives and businesses. Professional plans starting at $149/annually. Find more information here.
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8. Virtual Professional Photo Shoot
Every lawyer needs professional headshots for their websites or to update their LinkedIn profiles. When clients search online for a lawyer, the images they find can have a huge impact on their decision to hire. Help your lawyer friend rightly impress with professionally captured pictures that can be used for years to come. Some photographers like this one are offering virtual headshots, which are a great idea for work-from-home-friendly photoshoots.
The Return of the Office
Sometimes, a physical gift that someone can touch and feel is exactly what is needed. Here are a couple suggestions for gifts that can be used in or out of the home office.
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9. Rocketbook Notebook
For the environmentally conscious notetaking friend of yours, consider purchasing a Rocketbook Notebook. Rocketbooks are reusable, cloud-connected smart notebooks that simulate a pen and paper experience but are “built for the digital age.” This gift is great for the environment and for any lawyer who’s fed up of buying legal pads. Rocketbooks range from about $15 to $35. Find more information here.
Big Gift Idea
10. Made Leather Co.
A lawyer can always use a good quality leather bag. Made Leather Co. features luxury vegetable tanned leathers goods handcrafted by artisans in Morocco. Choose from purses, duffle bags, passport holders, messenger bags, and other leather goods all while supporting a small business founded by a fellow attorney! Your recipient will love this gift that can be used for years to come. Look for card holders available for $55 and laptop sleeves for $99. Find more information here.
Conclusion
The holidays might look a little different this year but that shouldn’t affect your ability to show your appreciation for the people you care about. With this gift guide, you’ll certainly select the perfect gift that’ll brighten that special someone’s day.
About the Author
Nicole Abboud-Shayan is the Business Development Associate for WordRake. Prior to joining the team, Nicole practiced law for several years and then launched her own media and marketing company. Follow Nicole on Twitter @nicoleabboud or connect with her on LinkedIn.
