Christmas is a glimmer of light for many employees as it marks the end of the year and the start of a festive break. After Christmas 2020 unfortunately in lockdown, the UK is hoping for a return to traditional festivities and a fun festive season in 2021, albeit if COVID-19 doesn’t throw any curve balls.
However, according to AXA’s mental health report, research illustrates the pandemic has taken its toll on workforce wellness with 81% of employees having described themselves as having a low state of mind and 64% said their work-stress levels have increased.
Whatever the situation we find ourselves in regarding lockdowns or restrictions, it’s important businesses don’t write Christmas off and take the opportunity to celebrate and reward their staff, after an especially tough year. As such, Christmas gift cards and digital rewards are the perfect opportunity to inject fun and spread festive cheer amongst peers.
Gifting inspiration
- Festive food
There’s no denying that the British love a Sunday roast and there’s nothing quite like sitting around the dining table on Christmas day and tucking into a spread of delicious food. It’s a huge part of the day for many who enjoy these extra special festival treats with friends and family. That’s why Christmas food vouchers are a popular gift to employees, to upgrade their Christmas Day meal or indulge in their favourite tipple. Christmas food vouchers can either be given for a specific retailer or restaurant through gifts cards such as Our Restaurant Favourite cards, or as a multi-retailer voucher to give employees the freedom to choose a food outlet. Blackhawk Network found that 37% of employees say that they are not rewarded or recognised at work, so whichever you choose, it will go a long way in ensuring they feel valued.
- Employee gifting
When it comes to the end of the year, bonuses are often high on the agenda as a reward for employees, however rewards don’t always have to come in cash form. Gift cards offer an additional opportunity to thank staff for their hard work during the year and they give people choice – especially when multi-retailer gifts cards can be given. It’s a common mistake to think that all employees would want the same gift card. The demographics, lifestyle and situations of employees are going to vary massively within any business and it’s important that when gifting a gift card employers take this into consideration. That way employees will feel understood and like an individual, which can go a long way in building loyalty and motivation. - Wellbeing experiences
For many, the Christmas period is a chance to unwind and recharge. From wellness treatments, to massages, to fitness classes, employees will likely be taking the time to invest in a treat for themselves. This presents the ideal opportunity for employers to give a gift card that goes that extra mile. Whether it’s over Christmas or in the New Year, depending on when the employee needs it most, wellness experience gift cards mean staff can truly indulge in a relaxing spa break, beauty treatments or a stay at a wellness retreat for the ultimate pamper package. It’s also worth noting that while wellbeing experiences can often be thought of as a gift for a female demographic, research shows men now make up 50% of spa customers as they are increasingly noticing the overall wellbeing benefits the activity brings.
- How to gift a gift card
Now we have some ideas on what to gift, it’s important to understand the best way to do it. When it comes to how much to give, there is no right or wrong answer. As mentioned earlier, ensuring employees feel like the present is tailored to them will go a long way. While a generic gift card is impactful in making an employee feel valued, be slightly different this year by adding personalisation or customisation to the gift given. A gift card received with a personal message from your immediate boss thanking you for your hard work and dedication, is much more motivational.
Finally, now working remotely has become the norm, this shouldn’t be forgotten. The easiest way to send Christmas gifts to employees working from home is by sending an eGift or digital reward, which can be sent in the form of multi-retailer vouchers that enable your employees to choose their own gift from popular retailers, restaurants and experiences.
Christmas is the perfect time of year to reward the team and with many gifting options there’s no reason not to. But rewards don’t have to be limited to this time of year. Gifting little and often, keeps your team motivated all year around to show that you appreciate their great work and recognise their value. This is especially true when that little and often gift is customised with, for example, a personalised message or a branded gift card. So, if it’s a gift card this Christmas or at another time, when done correctly you’re sure to put a smile on their face.
If you’d like more ideas or support with your gift cards for employees visit https://blackhawknetwork.com/on-demand/uk-en/
