Research conducted in the UK by Marks and Spencer’s corporate wing surveyed directors and owners from top UK companies, including those on prestigious lists like The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies and Great Places to Work. Of the companies that rewarded their employees at Christmas, nearly 50% reported a boost in motivation and productivity when staff returned in the New Year. However, getting a productivity bump from gift-giving comes down to knowing which rewards are worth the investment.
Now, with that business case in mind, let’s dive into some creative and fun ways to reward your team this Christmas, Kiwi style!
Personalised Christmas gifts
Forget the generic bottle of bubbles or beach towel. This year, why not personalise your employee gifts? Think quirky custom mugs with your team’s funniest catchphrase of the year or an individually-named reusable water bottle. Bonus points if it’s eco-friendly because everyone in Aotearoa loves a bit of sustainability.
If you really want to go all out, a curated gift box stuffed with locally sourced Kiwi goodies – like artisanal chocolate, manuka honey or craft beer – can hit the sweet spot. Supporting local businesses makes your workplace look good.
Experience over stuff
When was the last time you remembered a gift you received at work? Probably a while ago, right? But how about that time your company took you and the team out for a hilarious night of paintball, laser strike or tenpin bowling? Experiences are where it’s at.
Whether it’s a voucher for a weekend getaway (we’ve got some pretty epic spots right on our doorstep), a group wine-tasting or even a team surfing lesson, gifting experiences leaves a lasting impression. For those who prefer something more low-key, how about a team trip to an escape room? Nothing says bonding like solving puzzles in a locked room – plus, it’s an excellent metaphor for navigating the work year.
Flexible holiday hours
The Christmas shutdown period is not negotiable for some organisations, but there could be room for flexibility leading up to the close-down. Offering half-days for Christmas shopping during December or letting your people leave early on a Friday will make them feel appreciated without breaking the bank.
You could even throw in a ‘choose your own adventure’ style workday, where they get to decide their own hours. Productivity can increase when people feel in control of their time.
Secret Santa with a twist
Office Secret Santa is a staple, but it often misses the mark. Another bath bomb? Really? This year, give it a revamp. Introduce themes like ‘Op Shop Treasures’ (gifts bought from an op shop), ‘DIY Christmas’ (home-made gifts) or ‘Re-gifting rodeo’ (giving away unwanted gifts from previous Christmases or birthdays). Be creative with your theme, and Secret Santa will take on a whole new life.
Recognition and appreciation with a touch of humour
Sometimes, the most meaningful reward is recognition. But skip the cringy awards night with categories like “Most improved at sales presentations”. Instead, keep it light and funny.
Think of humorous categories like the “Cactus Award for handling prickly clients” or the “Spreadsheet Sorcerer Award.” A fun awards ceremony where everyone gets a silly title—along with a more heartfelt message about their contributions throughout the year—creates an atmosphere of fun and appreciation.
Team-building that’s actually fun
Let’s be honest: most team-building activities are about as exciting as watching paint dry. But if done right, they can be an absolute blast. This Christmas, instead of the tired old trust falls and awkward ice-breakers, why not plan a fun day out?
Hire a party boat, take the team out for some zip-lining or book a karaoke room. The key here is to give your employees something to look forward to that isn’t just another work drinkies with warm wine. Choose something they’ll genuinely enjoy and you’ll see the difference in morale.
Wellness Christmas package
There’s no denying that this year has been economically stressful. So, a thoughtful way to reward your employees this Christmas could be through wellness gifts.
Consider putting together a package that includes a meditation app subscription, a massage voucher or even a yoga class pass. Encouraging a bit of R&R around the holidays will help your team recharge their batteries and start the New Year fresh.
Something to look forward to in the New Year
Add some icing to the Christmas gift cake by joining the Boost employee benefits programme, kicking off in the New Year. It’s an affordable way to provide everyone with discounts and special offers that are useful in real life. And the app can be customised with your logo and any employee benefits you already offer. Find out more about Boost.