Each December, employees and clients wait to see if the holiday gift they receive will feel meaningful or like an afterthought. A 2023 Coresight Research survey found that more than 60% of workers believe corporate holiday gifts affect how valued they feel. At the same time, companies struggle with scale, personalization, and logistics. Getting holiday gifting right can strengthen loyalty and retention; getting it wrong can waste budget and erode goodwill.
Holiday gifting does not need to be complicated. The most effective approaches share three qualities: flexibility for the recipient, ease for the sender, and a chance to reinforce brand values. Here are three proven methods that achieve this balance.
### Give Points That Put Choice in Their Hands
One of the biggest frustrations with corporate gifting is irrelevance. A gift card to a restaurant someone never visits or a branded notebook that ends up in a drawer does little to inspire appreciation. Sending points solves this problem. Employees and clients receive a balance of points to spend on a wide catalog of gifts, experiences, and services.
Why this works:
– **Personalization at scale**. Each recipient chooses something that fits their lifestyle, without added work for you.
– **Wide appeal**. A single program can delight a new hire, a ten-year veteran, and a top client because options span categories.
– **Budget control**. You set the point value, giving everyone freedom within defined limits.
Practical tips: Consider offering a mix of physical and experiential options. Someone may want premium headphones while another values a cooking class. Highlighting this choice in your holiday communication reinforces that you respect individual preferences.
### Send Flexible Links for Maximum Ease
If your goal is fast and simple delivery with zero stress, digital gifting links are a strong option. With one link, recipients browse curated rewards and select what works for them. No address collection, no stocking inventory, and no risk of missed deliveries.
This approach is powerful when you want to engage remote employees or global clients who span multiple geographies. A redemption link ensures inclusivity across locations and shipping constraints.
A recent HR analyst survey showed that nearly 75% of companies now have hybrid workforces. Digital-first gifting keeps everyone in the loop, regardless of zip code.
Actionable ways to use this approach:
– For distributed teams, send links during a live virtual holiday event so employees make their selections in real time.
– For client appreciation, embed the link in a personalized email note that acknowledges the partnership and offers thanks.
– Track redemption data to understand preferences across regions and teams, which can inform future recognition efforts.
As one new team member put it, āI loved being able to pick something useful instead of getting another generic mug. It made me feel noticed even though I work remotely.ā
### Create a Branded Holiday Kit for a Memorable Unboxing
Sometimes the best holiday gift is something tangible that connects people emotionally with your brand. A well-designed, custom-branded holiday kit creates a shared moment across teams and client relationships. Kits may include seasonal treats, company-branded items, or thoughtful extras like handwritten notes.
The power here lies in presentation. Unboxing has become a cultural touchpoint. When the packaging feels special, the gift experience becomes memorable. A branded kit bridges digital and physical spaces, reminding clients and employees of your culture in a way a standard online order cannot.
Good practices for building a kit:
– Include one practical branded item that gets regular use, like a quality water bottle.
– Add one seasonal item that feels festive, from gourmet snacks to holiday dĆ©cor.
– Personalize with a small card or message signed by a manager or executive.
Branded kits fit best when the goal is strengthening connection and showcasing company identity. They are especially impactful for clients who interact with your brand mainly through email or Zoom. Receiving a tangible, customized package sets your company apart during a season crowded with generic gifts.
### Matching Methods to Goals
Not every gift format serves the same purpose. If your priority is personal relevance, points offer unmatched flexibility. If you need speed and reach, digital links deliver instant results. If you want to reinforce cultural values and leave a lasting memory, custom kits shine.
Many organizations find success in blending these approaches. Senior leaders may receive a holiday kit, employees may get points, and international partners may receive flexible links. The mix allows you to match intent with execution, balancing efficiency with impact.
### Elevating Holiday Gifting Beyond Obligation
When holiday gifting is done thoughtfully, it moves beyond a budget line item and becomes a strategic reinforcement of your culture and brand. Employees feel seen and appreciated. Clients perceive partnership rather than transaction. The season becomes an opportunity to strengthen bonds, not just tick a box.
If you are planning your own holiday gifting strategy and want scalable solutions that delight both employees and clients, explore the options at Givenly.com.
