Every office has that one person (or a few) who just gets things done. They coordinate calendars, wrangle last-minute meetings, answer calls, manage paperwork, and still somehow know everyone’s birthday. These quiet heroes are the backbone of the workplace—and that’s exactly why Administrative Professionals Day is such a big deal.
Whether you’re a manager, team leader, or coworker who simply wants to show a little love, this guide will help you celebrate the invaluable contributions of administrative professionals with heart, meaning, and a touch of creativity.
What Is Administrative Professionals Day?
Celebrated on the Wednesday of the last full week of April (in 2025, it falls on April 23), Administrative Professionals Day is all about recognizing the dedication, skill, and often-underappreciated efforts of admins, office managers, receptionists, executive assistants, and other support staff.
It’s more than just a nice gesture—it’s an opportunity to boost morale, strengthen team culture, and let your admin pros know just how much they matter.
Thoughtful Gift Ideas (That They’ll Actually Love)
The best gifts aren’t always the flashiest—they’re the most thoughtful. Here are a few real-life inspired ideas that hit the mark every time:
1. A Group Appreciation Card (That’s More Than Just a Card)
Skip the old-school paper route and go digital with a heartfelt group card. It’s a simple way to gather warm messages, fun photos, and even a group gift from everyone on the team—all in one place. The best part? It’s something they can look back on and treasure long after the day has passed.
A friend of mine once helped her team surprise their office manager with a group card filled with kind notes, shared memories, and a coffee gift card. She was genuinely touched and said it made her feel more valued than any physical gift ever had.
2. A “Desk Reboot” Kit
Admins spend a ton of time at their desks. Why not give their workspace a mini makeover? Think a stylish lamp, a comfy wrist rest, a cute mug, or a set of soothing desk plants. It’s a small upgrade that shows you notice the little things.
3. A Reusable, Personalized Tote Bag
For the admin who’s always carrying binders, snacks, or extra chargers, a sturdy, eco-friendly tote bag (bonus if it’s personalized) is both practical and stylish. Plus, it’s a great way to ditch plastic and gift something sustainable.
4. Experiences Over Things
Some people just don’t want more stuff, and that’s okay. A massage voucher, a nice lunch out, or an afternoon off can speak volumes. Want to go all out? Plan a surprise team celebration or mini-retreat.
Meaningful Messages to Say “Thank You”
Not sure what to write in a card or say aloud? Keep it simple, sincere, and specific. Here are a few examples to get you started:
- “You somehow juggle ten things at once and make it look easy. Thank you for being the glue that holds us all together.”
- “From the early mornings to the late emails, we see your follow through—and we appreciate it more than you know..”
- “You don’t just keep the office running—you make it feel like a team.”
If you’re looking for more inspiration on how to express appreciation, there are plenty of creative ways to craft a thoughtful message. Whether it’s a handwritten note or a digital greeting, focusing on sincerity and personalization can make all the difference in showing your gratitude.
Creative Ways to Celebrate In-Person & Remotely
Not everyone’s in the office these days—and that’s okay. There are plenty of ways to celebrate, whether your team is remote, hybrid, or together in person.
For In-Office Teams:
- Surprise Breakfast or Coffee Cart – Bring in treats or hire a local coffee truck to roll up and serve their favorites.
- “Admin of the Day” Award Ceremony – Go cheesy and fun. Make it official with a certificate and round of applause.
- Wall of Appreciation – Set up a physical bulletin board or whiteboard where team members can write messages throughout the day.
For Remote or Hybrid Teams:
- Virtual Cheers Session – Host a quick Zoom toast with everyone sharing one thing they appreciate about your admin staff.
- Digital Group Video – Compile short video clips from team members sharing their gratitude, then send it as a surprise.
- Deliver a Care Package – Send a curated box with snacks, self-care items, and a handwritten note. Bonus if it arrives on the actual day!
A Personal Note
When I worked at a small startup, our office manager, Laura, was the backbone of the entire operation. She knew everyone’s coffee orders, magically fixed broken printers, and somehow managed to organize an entire company retreat in just a week. On Administrative Professionals Day, we surprised her with a personalized card, a half-day off, and a small bonus. Her reaction? She was in tears. She told us it was the first time she truly felt seen and appreciated at work.
That moment really stuck with me—and it’s why I believe this day is so important.
Final Thoughts
Administrative professionals don’t ask for much—but they deserve everything. A little effort goes a long way in making them feel recognized, valued, and proud of what they do. Whether you send a card, give a thoughtful gift, or simply say “thank you” in a meaningful way, the key is to make it personal and genuine.
So, how will you show your appreciation this Administrative Professionals Day?
Chase Ortiz is part of the team at PaigeSimple, where he takes care of all the advertising requests. With a sharp eye for detail, Chase makes sure every advertising opportunity is handled smoothly, helping the site grow and reach more people. His ability to manage these tasks efficiently makes him an important part of the team.