Your mind is whizzing with a hundred different options and you’re not sure which way to turn. Your anxiety levels are rising with the stress of making a crucial decision. That’s right, it’s gift buying time. But why do we put so much pressure on ourselves to get it right?
After all, it’s the thought that counts, isn’t it? Well, when it comes to buying gifts for staff – whether it’s a thank you for a job well done, a goodbye gift for a parting team member or just something for the whole team to enjoy – sometimes overthinking can turn what should be an enjoyable moment into a shopping-related nightmare! But don’t worry – we’ve got some top suggestions for ways that you can thank staff and make them feel valued and appreciated, without breaking the bank or giving you a headache!
Experiences count more than objects
Multiple surveys conducted over consumer groups in the last few years have shown a dramatic shift away from physical gifts to ‘experience’ gifts as a preferred gesture of thanks. This doesn’t necessarily mean having to wrangle the entire team out for a day of wild water rafting – it can be as simple as inviting a local artist to perform at your next after-school meeting or organising picnic baskets for your upcoming CPD or training day. Consider the recipient’s interests—are they into cooking or art? A cooking experience or pottery class could make a memorable and appreciated gift.
Make it meaningful
While a beautiful bouquet is lovely, why not give a gift that lasts longer? Consider alternatives like wildflower seed gift packs or having a tree planted in someone’s name. Another thoughtful gesture is to share in someone’s interests and passions. Is there a charity they’re actively involved with or a local community initiative they support? It’s not just about donating; you can sponsor a project or get involved directly. For instance, mental health charity Mind has a wish list where people can purchase items in others’ names as a gift.
The alternative to vouchers
Vouchers are a great gift option, especially when you’re unsure of what to buy. However, you can elevate your gift-giving game by opting for a subscription instead. The beauty of subscriptions is that they offer more than just one gift; they typically last from three months to a whole year, providing a continuous stream of goodies! There are plenty of budget-friendly subscription options to suit different tastes, such as subscriptions for chocolate lovers, coffee enthusiasts, or crafters. Similarly, memberships can also be a highly appreciated gift that keeps on giving. Consider options like The National Trust or RHS memberships for gardening enthusiasts.
The most important advice of all…
All the options mentioned above should provide you with some excellent gift ideas. However, if you’re still unsure about what to choose, here’s our most important piece of advice – just ask!
Instead of stressing over what people might want, take a moment to speak with them and express your desire to show your appreciation. Let them know you’d love to hear what they’d like. Sometimes, you may find yourself in a situation where giving a physical gift isn’t feasible. In such cases, you shouldn’t feel obligated to provide something material as a token of gratitude for their work.
In fact, asking them what you can do, rather than what you can give, will be even more appreciated. Taking a stroll with a team member to grab a coffee and have a chat, or offering to help them clear out a cupboard, can make them feel far more valued than receiving a pair of socks or a box of chocolates.
Whether it’s through meaningful experiences, lasting gifts, or simply taking the time to ask and understand their preferences, the key is to make them feel valued and appreciated. So, take the pressure off yourself and focus on gestures that resonate with your team, creating memorable moments that foster a sense of belonging and gratitude.
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