This year has rocked the workplace like no other, and although we’re probably all glad to see 2020 end, the issue of holiday traditions looms large. Many companies of all sizes are foregoing expensive holiday parties this year for many reasons: social distancing requirements, economic slowdowns, and sensitivity that many workers may not be feeling particularly festive. And so, many employers have turned their attention to employee gifts; advice from industry gurus suggests: Think caring. Think cozy. Think creative.
This article we read cites one online corporate gift-giving company representative who has seen corporate budgets climb because of holiday party savings. “The average spend per gift by employers with more than 500 employees falls between $25 and $35; 100 to 500 employees is $50 to $70; and small companies, under 100 employees, exceeds $100.”
While a cash gift may be the easiest to accomplish on a grand scale, the author states that this is a time where HR can shine. These front-line advocates have their pulse on the workforce’s mindset and the challenges they’ve faced with adjusting to remote working, daily child schooling, stress from the pandemic and economic uncertainty. So while cash may seem to fill most needs, a little more thought can convey how much you care about your employees with an end-of-year token of appreciation.
Department heads can be instrumental in identifying gifts that will touch their employees’ lives. Consider empowering them with a budget and allowing them to customize gift-giving, if possible. Some companies are focusing on wellness, giving items that promote healthy eating, exercise and stress reduction. Others may look to gadgets that facilitate more comfortable remote work. Whatever the gift – and this article is full of good ideas – the central message is, “We care about you.” And really, isn’t that what the holidays are all about?