We’ve all been there before – either you’ve lost a job (I certainly have!) or you know someone who has. And it sucks big time!
And as your friend’s birthday approaches, you may be wondering what type of gift could really benefit them at such a tough time.
Losing a job can bring about so many different emotions. But the key is to give your friend a thoughtful gift that let’s them know you support them through this next chapter.
If you need a little inspiration, I’ve got some birthday gift ideas below that I’m sure will help!
Online Course Subscription
A subscription to an online learning platform like Skillshare, Udemy, or Coursera can give them an opportunity to brush up on their existing skills or learn some new ones.
Personalized Journal or Planner
Gift your friend with a monogrammed journal or a time-blocking planner to help them stay focused and organize their time during job searches.
They can also use it to set job goals and track their progress.
Resume Writing Service
Make sure they have the best chance of landing that interview by helping them polish their resume.
A professional resume writing service can uncover some areas of improvement for the best-looking resume.
Self-Care Kit
Fill up a basket with some essential skincare goodies (don’t forget the face masks!) and a few relaxation products like bath bombs/salts, candles, and herbal teas to help them decompress.
Coffee Shop Gift Card
Pick up a gift card for a local coffee shop. They can use it when they want to get out of the house and work remotely or just take a much-needed breather.
Motivational or Personal Interest Books
Send your buddy ALL the encouraging vibes with books focused on personal growth, such as Atomic Habits by James Clear or Good Vibes, Good Life by Vex King.
I HIGHLY recommend both – they are true gems! Any book related to their interests would be a great gift as well.
Online or In-Person Fitness Classes
A subscription to yoga, barre, pilates, or other group fitness classes can be just the motivation they need to stay active.
Sometimes all we need is a good workout session to give our minds a rest from the stress of job hunting.
Supplies for Their Favorite Hobby
Support your friend’s hobbies by purchasing more of their favorite cooking tools, running gear, art supplies, etc.
Care Package Basket
No better gift than a basket filled with their favorite snacks, fun socks, puzzles, travel-sized goodies, or an adult coloring book with crayons for relaxation.
Don’t forget to tuck in a handwritten note, for an extra special touch!
Networking Event Ticket
Be on the lookout for any networking conferences or events happening in your town.
Purchase a ticket to a local or online networking event your friend showed interest in to help them expand their professional connections.
Grocery Store Gift Card
Everyone’s gotta eat! Give them a little something from their favorite grocery store to help them stock up the fridge.
Additionally, you can share these grocery store hacks to help them spend less while they shop!
A Plant for Positive Energy
Stick with low-maintenance plants like succulents or peace lilies that represent growth, positivity, and life in their home.
Gasoline Gift Card
Do you remember when gas was less than $1.00 per gallon?! Geez, those were the days!
Driving a car from interview to interview can definitely take a toll on the pockets. Help your friend fill ‘er up.
Meal Service Subscription
A meal delivery service subscription can alleviate the pressure of having to worry about food costs or meal prep.
Gift Card for a Massage or Spa Treatment
A gift card for complete relaxation can go a VERY long way. Bring on the hot stones and the drool-producing slumber!
If they’re not into massages, set up a mani-pedi appointment for them or you can pay for them to get a facial with an esthetician.
Personalized Mug or Piece of Art
Order a custom coffee mug or wall art made with a motivational message or personal note that only the two of you will understand. Don’t you just love a good inside joke?
This gift is an awesome reminder of encouragement to your friend to keep going and that you’ve got their back!
Supportive Phone Call or Coffee Date
One of the best gifts you can give a friend who has lost their job is time.
Offer your time through a phone call or even better, get together over coffee. Give them words of encouragement (and laughs), while helping them stay connected and positive.
I have received AND given most of these gifts to friends, and I have come to realize that being jobless on your birthday is not the end of the world.
It is the beginning of something new and exciting – I could choose how my next chapter began!
And your friend will too!
What are some of the best birthday gifts you have given a friend who’s lost their job? Let’s add some more to the list!
