10 fantastic festive gift ideas for employees this Christmas

We all know that Christmas is a time for giving, but this should not just be for your close family and friends. Giving a gift to your employees as well is the perfect way to show then that they are appreciated and valued within your business. It can be an unexpected perk that plays a huge part in boosting morale and spreading a little Christmas cheer around the office.

With a varied workforce, it can sometimes be tricky to know what gifts to buy for your employees, so we have taken the hard work out of it and put together a list of some of our favourite presents to buy for staff.

1. Confectionary

Everyone loves a little bit of chocolate (or a lot) at Christmas, and so why not consider corporate personalised Christmas chocolates and gifts? Chocolate and sweets can be the perfect gift for any of your employees. However, this is sometimes subject to arguments that it can be a little impersonal, so go that extra mile by customising it. You can alter the designs on the tins and boxes to say anything you like, and so it can look as though a little more thought has been put into it.

The fact that you can customise your confectionary makes it perfect for corporate gifting as well. It is sure to be well received by your clients as a Christmas thank you for their custom but can carry all of your branding to act as an advert that people actually want to receive!

2. Gift cards

With many different people to buy for, it can be difficult to find a gift that suits everyone; however, a gift card is the closest thing you can get when it comes to catering for all. It allows the employee to choose something that they actually want, rather than something they might throw away or give to someone else, and so it is likely to be much more appreciated than you might think.

3. Books

Books can open up a whole new world for people and they make a great present. Whether they can teach you something, transport you to new worlds, or simply make you look interesting by featuring in the background of your video call, you can’t go wrong with a book. Just make sure that if you are buying something that relates to the industry that you work in, it is not seen as lecturing or trying to highlight weaknesses.

4. Gift hampers

A gift hamper is something that will raise smiles of delight as it can pack in so many things. Employees will have great fun searching through all of the lovely goodies inside and it can be seen as being very generous. Your hamper can include just about anything from seasonal snacks, to chocolates, alcohol or even some pampering bits and pieces. You can put them together yourself or order ready made ones that will look stunning and have a huge impact.

5. Board games

Let’s face it, by Boxing Day most of us have broken out a board game, even if there are no children involved, so why not give one as a gift? It could be something for all the family or a game with a little adult humour to help while away the hours during the Christmas break.

6. Digital photo frames

These days, most of us have our most precious photos stored on our phones or computers and we rarely print them out. A digital photo frame is a great way to make use of those fabulous memories and can be positioned at home or on an employee’s desk.

7. Stationary

Most people love a bit of stationary, so why not put together some nice notebooks, pens and desk accessories for people. Remember, don’t just go and raid the stationary cupboard at work or you will be seen as cheap. Instead, invest in some good quality items that will look special. Think about items which can carry initials, come in fun colours and be a really nice present to open.

8. Gift experiences

A gift experience can be an amazing present as it allows an employee to go away and do something special. It could be a pampering experience, an activity day or even a meal out. They are all great fun and all fantastic for the wellbeing of your staff as well as simply being a lovely gift. It shows that you appreciate that they need the time and opportunity to unwind, and you will have a happier and more content workforce as a result.

9. Scented candles

Scented candles are huge at the moment, and almost every home will have its own collection, which means that they are always great gifts, especially as Christmas tends to be a time when people light up their homes. There are scents to suit everyone, including the floral, the fresh, the fruity and the masculine. To be safe, you could always go for festive scents such as cinnamon or pine which are likely to be seen as appropriate and please everyone.

10. A set of glasses

For anyone entertaining this Christmas, they are likely to reach a point where they realise that they do not have enough glasses for their guests, so why not buy them a set? There are so many to choose from, including wine glasses, champagne flutes, gin glasses, tumblers, whisky glasses or cocktail glasses, so there really is something to suit everyone.

When you give a gift, you should remember to make it about them and not you if you want it to be appreciated. Remember to stay consistent with the value of your gifts and give careful consideration to anyone from different cultural or religious backgrounds as some gifts may backfire. Whatever you choose, always make sure that your gifts still reflect your company values in order to foster the right atmosphere in the workplace and help to embed your ethics even further. Most of all, make sure that Christmas is a fun and happy time for everyone involved.