As the year draws to a close and the festive season approaches, many businesses contemplate the tradition of employee holiday gifts. While some may view it as an unnecessary expense, there are compelling reasons why expressing gratitude to your team through gifts can be a valuable investment in your company’s success.
Holiday gifts are a tangible expression of appreciation for your employees’ hard work and dedication throughout the year. It’s a way to acknowledge their contributions and let them know their efforts are valued. This gesture of recognition can boost morale, foster a sense of belonging, and strengthen employee engagement.
Beyond the emotional impact, holiday gifts can also contribute to a more positive and productive work environment. Employees who feel appreciated are more likely to be motivated, engaged, and committed to their work. This can lead to improved performance, increased productivity, and reduced turnover.
Moreover, holiday gifts can enhance your company culture by fostering camaraderie and teamwork. A thoughtful gift can spark conversations, create shared experiences, and reinforce a sense of community within the workplace. This can contribute to a more collaborative and supportive work environment.
21 Amazing Holiday Gifts For Employees in 2023
1. Gourmet food basket
Surprise and appreciate your employees by presenting them with a gourmet food basket, featuring a tempting selection of chocolates, cookies, nuts, and cheese. This delectable and festive offering serves as a delicious expression of gratitude, infusing warmth into their holiday celebrations.
2. A subscription to a streaming service
A subscription to a streaming service like Netflix, Hulu, or Spotify can be a great way for employees to relax and de-stress during their downtime. With a wide variety of movies, TV shows, music, and podcasts to choose from, employees can find something to entertain and unwind them. Streaming services are also convenient, as employees can watch or listen to their favorite content on their computers, smartphones, tablets, or smart TVs.
3. Lunch box or insulated bag
A lunch box or bag is a practical and thoughtful gift for employees who pack their lunches. It’s a great way to encourage healthy eating and reduce waste. Choose an insulated and leak-proof lunch box with multiple compartments to keep food fresh and separate. You can also personalize the lunch box with the employee’s name or initials.
4. Stress balls
Stress balls are a great way to help employees relieve stress and anxiety. They are small and affordable employee holiday gifts that can be used at work or home. Choose stress balls that are soft and squishy and come in a variety of colors and shapes. You can also personalize the stress balls with the company logo or a message.
5. Slipper socks
Slipper socks are a cozy and comfortable gift for employees to relax at home. They are a great way to show them you care about their well-being. Choose slipper socks made from soft, breathable materials with a non-skid sole. You can also personalize the slipper socks with the employee’s name or initials.
6. Coffee maker
A coffee maker is a great gift for employees who love coffee. It’s a practical and thoughtful holiday gift idea for employees that they can use to enjoy freshly brewed coffee at work or home. Choose a coffee maker that is easy to use and clean and has various features, such as a timer and automatic shut-off.
7. Handwritten note
Harness the power of sincerity through handwritten notes expressing gratitude for individual contributions. Personalized messages show genuine recognition, making each employee feel valued and reinforcing the human connection within the team. This simple, heartfelt gesture leaves a lasting impression, fostering a positive and appreciative workplace culture.
8. Company swag
Boost team pride and unity by gifting personalized company swag such as branded T-shirts, hats, or water bottles. Holiday gifts for staff, such as these tangible tokens, create a sense of belonging, reminding employees of their integral role within the organization and promoting a shared identity and team spirit.
9. Homemade treats
Acknowledge hard work with a touch of sweetness by gifting homemade treats like cookies, brownies, or cupcakes. Baked with care, these delightful holiday treats satisfy taste buds and convey a warm, personal appreciation for each team member’s dedication and effort.
10. A gift certificate to a spa or salon
A gift certificate to a spa or salon can be a thoughtful and pampering holiday gift for employees. A spa day can help employees relax and de-stress, while a salon appointment can help them feel refreshed and confident. There are many different types of spas and salons to choose from, so you can find one that offers the services your employees will enjoy.
11. A new book
A new book can be a great gift for employees who enjoy reading. Choose a book from an author that the employee enjoys, or pick one that you think they would enjoy based on their interests. A good book can provide hours of entertainment and thought-provoking reading.
12. A charitable donation in their name
A charitable donation in an employee’s name is a meaningful way to give back to the community and show your support for their values. You can choose a charity that aligns with the employee’s interests or donate to a cause that is important to your company.
13. A gift basket of local products
A gift basket of local products is unique and thoughtful, showing you support local businesses. Fill the basket with goodies from your area, such as local coffee, tea, snacks, and artisanal products. This is a great way to give employees a taste of your community and help them discover new local favorites.
14. A houseplant
A houseplant is a gift that keeps on giving. It can add a touch of greenery to their home and help to improve air quality. Choose a plant that is easy to care for and that will thrive in the employee’s home environment. A houseplant is a reminder of your appreciation and can be enjoyed for years to come.
15. Wellness package
Foster a sense of well-being among your team by presenting a wellness package. Packed with aromatherapy candles, essential oils, and a massage voucher, this holiday gift for staff encourages relaxation and stress relief. Show your employees that their mental and physical health matters, extending your gratitude beyond the workplace.
16. Gift card
Opt for versatility by offering a gift card to a popular restaurant, store, or online retailer. This allows your employees the freedom to choose what they truly desire, turning your gesture of thanks into a personalized shopping experience tailored to their preferences.
17. Paid time off
Enhance employee well-being by granting a few additional days of paid time off. This thoughtful gesture allows them to unwind, recharge, and spend quality time with loved ones, fostering a healthier work-life balance that increases productivity and job satisfaction.
18. Travel bag
A travel bag is a great gift for employees who love to travel. It’s a practical and versatile gift that they can use for weekend getaways, business trips, or even everyday errands. Choose a travel bag made from durable materials with various features, such as multiple compartments, a padded shoulder strap, and wheels. You can also personalize the travel bag with the employee’s name or initials.
19. Escape room or movie theater voucher
Give your employees the gift of extracurricular fun with a voucher for an escape room, movie theater, or other activity local to their area. Employees will appreciate having something to look forward to in their time off from work.
20. Electric fan
An electric fan is a great gift for employees who work in hot or humid environments. It helps to circulate air and improve comfort. Choose a fan that is quiet and energy-efficient.
21. Desk organizers
A desk organizer is a great way to help employees keep their desks organized and clutter-free. Choose a desk organizer with multiple compartments for pens, pencils, paper clips, and other office supplies. You can also personalize the desk organizer with the employee’s name or initials.
Looking for more ways to create a positive company culture? INTOO’s career development program offers a variety of solutions to help your employees increase their skills, achieve their professional goals, and grow with your organization. Contact us today to learn more.
INTOO staff writers come from diverse backgrounds and have extensive experience writing about topics that matter to the HR and business communities, including outplacement, layoffs, career development, internal mobility, candidate experience, succession planning, talent acquisition, and more.
