Tips and Tricks for Choosing the Best Employee Christmas Gifts

The festive period is a fantastic time to show your appreciation to your employees. Selecting thoughtful staff Christmas gifts or a beautiful custom gift hamper can create a special moment and give your team that warm, fuzzy feeling. The gifts you choose should be as unique as the recipients themselves.

Why Thoughtful Employee Christmas Gift Ideas Matter

Choosing the perfect employee Christmas gifts can be challenging. For instance, I once worked at a company where the CEO handed out branded fleeces as Christmas gifts. While these were practical and promoted company branding (if worn), they didn't feel like personal gifts. Another company I worked for gave out unexpected bonuses, which were appreciated but set an expectation for the following year. When the bonus didn’t recur, it left employees feeling disappointed.

The lesson? A well-thought-out gift that costs £50 can have a higher perceived value than giving cash or generic items. A great employee Christmas gift idea should resonate with the recipient and make them feel valued.

What Do Business Owners Typically Give for Staff Christmas Gifts?

When we asked business owners, the most common answers were "champagne, wine, chocolates." While these classic gifts are appreciated, they can feel predictable. However, when part of a curated hamper with thoughtful pieces that create a special moment, they can leave a lasting impression.

Top Tips for Choosing Employee Christmas Gifts

1. Make It About Them, Not You
   The best employee Christmas gift ideas focus on what the recipient will enjoy. Avoid gifts that feel like they benefit the company more than the employee. If you must include branded items, keep them subtle.

   Pro Tip: Let your employees choose their gift. We offer a service where, for every 75 employees, a tailored gift choice is available. Employees can visit a dedicated URL, fill in their details, and select a gift hamper, ensuring an element of surprise while meeting GDPR compliance and current delivery instructions.

2. Be Mindful with Food and Drink Gifts
   Food and drink can be tricky due to dietary restrictions and preferences. Always offer alternative options, and consider including them as part of a wider gift hamper with items that last beyond consumption. Tailoring gifts for non-drinkers or specific dietary needs ensures that everyone feels included.

3. Consistency Matters
   Consistency in giving staff Christmas gifts can help maintain employee morale. Skipping a year or drastically changing the budget can lead to disappointment. Set a budget and stick to it each year.

4. Align with Company Values
   Reinforce your company’s core values through your gift choices. If your company promotes health and wellbeing, consider gift sets that support relaxation, such as a set that includes a book, a candle, and cosy socks for unwinding after a long day.

5. Presentation and Personalisation Count
   The best employee Christmas gifts aren’t just about what’s inside; it’s about how they’re presented. Add a handwritten note or deliver the gift in person with a warm "thank you." These small touches create memorable moments that make employees feel genuinely appreciated.

6. Stay On-Trend
   Consider current trends when choosing staff Christmas gifts. Depending on your industry, being on-trend can make a big difference. For instance, gifts that align with sustainability and eco-consciousness show that you’re a responsible employer. Choose gifts that avoid plastic and are sustainably sourced to make a positive impact.

Create Lasting Impressions with Thoughtful Employee Christmas Gifts

Selecting the right employee Christmas gifts is about showing genuine appreciation and creating moments that resonate. Remember, a thoughtful gift shows that you value your employees as individuals, not just as workers. Whether it’s a customised gift hamper or a personalised item, the key is to make them feel seen and appreciated.

Ready to make your staff Christmas gifts unforgettable? Check out our tailored options and let us help you create gifts that leave a lasting impression.