Sixty-six percent of people say that the motivation boost they receive from a Christmas reward lasts throughout the working year.

43 percent of employees consider ‘feeling valued’ as the top motivator.

More than a third of workers would choose to receive shopping vouchers from their employer. With Christmas and New Year fast approaching, research has revealed how much of an impact rewards during the festive season can have on a workforce’s productivity levels.

A nationwide survey has shown that British workers count ‘feeling valued’ by their boss as the top motivational factor in helping them achieve more during their nine to five and a deeper look into the study has shown that this is never more impactful than at Christmas when a little recognition can actually ensure a year-long motivation. The survey, conducted by Argos for Business, the leading provider for corporate motivation solutions, found that an astounding two thirds (66 percent)[1] of people say that the motivation boost they receive from a Christmas reward lasts throughout the working year. 

For 43 percent of employees, being appreciated above everything else is key to feeling engaged and motivated at work, beating promotions and pay rises.

Commenting on the findings, Danny Clenaghan, Managing Director at Argos for Business said: “Businesses sometimes fail to show their appreciation to employees and actively motivate their teams. Rewards and recognising good work both form the basis of a long-term motivational strategy, encouraging employee enthusiasm, and can impact positively on staff wellbeing and improving staff retention. “What’s interesting about our research is that Christmas rewards are actually remembered long after the festive season is over, bringing employees into a new year with a positive attitude that lasts the whole year. “With this is mind, we would encourage leaders and manager to think about using Christmas as the ideal opportunity to reward their team. Rewards can range from a Christmas party for the whole office, to a physical gift, or a gift card.”

An Argos for Business poll of over 7,000 workers revealed retail vouchers are at the top of the wish list for more than a third (39.5 percent) when asked about the kind of gift they would like to receive from their employer. A gift card provides a simple, yet effective reward solution and allows the recipient the flexibility to choose a gift to suit their own needs, and ensuring that they receive real value by getting something they truly want.Gift cards also allow businesses to closely manage the budget available for Christmas gifts. They can be purchased in a range of denominations making it easier to manage spend. The flexibility of gift cards also allows employers to tier rewards so that high achievers receive a reward that reflects their input and effort throughout the year, and different personnel are rewarded accordingly.

Danny Clenaghan added: “A gift voucher allows the employee the freedom to choose a gift that is tailored to their tastes while also saving the business time as the hassle of choosing a bespoke present is eliminated.” This year, Argos for Business is offering a five percent discount on Argos Gift Card orders over £250 in the run up to Christmas, to help businesses reward their team for less. A free Christmas tree to make the office look festive, boosting morale, is also available for orders of £1,000 or over placed before the end of November 2015.