By Jordan Grim
Every year in mid-October, employees get a chance to pause and say “thank you” to their leaders. That’s Boss Day — a tradition many workplaces observe to honor supervisors, managers, and bosses. In 2025, Boss Day falls on Thursday, October 16.
Though it’s not a federal holiday, Boss Day is widely recognized in many U.S. companies as a small but meaningful gesture of appreciation.
The idea of Boss Day began in 1958. Patricia Bays Haroski, a State Farm Insurance employee in Illinois, registered the day with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. She picked October 16 because it was her father’s birthday—and he was her boss.
By 1962, Illinois’s governor, Otto Kerner, backed the observance, giving it more formal recognition. In 1979, Hallmark began offering cards specifically for Boss Day. Over time the observance spread beyond the U.S. to places like India, Australia, and South Africa.
That said, there’s criticism: some argue employees shouldn’t feel obliged to gift those with more power or treat the day like a mandatory obligation. The key is making any gesture optional, modest, and sincere.
| Idea | Why It Works / Tips |
|---|---|
| Handwritten card with a personal note | Simple, low pressure, meaningful |
| Desk plant (succulent, low-maintenance) | Adds life to their workspace without needing care |
| Their favorite snack, coffee, or tea | Personal yet modest |
| Team lunch, office treats, or coffee tray | Inclusive and shared |
| Gift card (coffee shop, bookstore) | Flexible and safe |
| Public shoutout (via office email, Slack, social media) | Highlights appreciation in a public, low-cost way |
| A short video or slide show from team members | Emotional, memorable |
Tailor it to your relationship; keep it genuine.
Boss Day may not be on every company calendar—but when done respectfully, it can deepen workplace trust and gratitude. In 2025, October 16 (Thursday) is the moment to pause and honor those who lead.