A well-thought-out gift can go a long way in making employees feel recognized, valued, and motivated. 

One study found that 75% of employees say their job satisfaction increases after they receive a good holiday gift. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 appreciation gifts for employees that truly show you care, helping you build a stronger, more engaged team.

Why employee appreciation matters

Building strong relationships

By showing appreciation through thoughtful gifts, you’re not just rewarding hard work—you’re investing in the relationships that keep your team connected and collaborative.

Boosting morale and productivity

It’s no secret that happy employees are more productive. When employees feel appreciated, their morale improves, leading to increased motivation and better performance. 

Retention and loyalty

Retaining top talent is a challenge. One of the most effective ways to keep employees loyal to your company is by regularly showing appreciation. When employees feel valued, they’re more likely to stay, reducing turnover and the associated costs of recruiting and training new hires. 

Criteria for choosing the right gifts

1. Personalization

A one-size-fits-all approach can fall flat, leaving employees feeling like just another name on a list. Instead, take the time to learn about your employees’ interests, hobbies, and preferences. A personalized gift shows that you’ve put thought into what would make them happy, making the gesture all the more meaningful. 

To get the employee information you need, send out a survey or use GoProfiles, where employees create information-rich profiles. 

2. Practicality

While novelty gifts can be fun, practical gifts that employees can use in their daily lives tend to be more appreciated. Consider items that can enhance their work experience or contribute to their personal lives in a meaningful way. Practical gifts are a constant reminder of your appreciation every time they’re used, which helps to reinforce the positive sentiment over time.

3. Inclusivity

It’s important to ensure that your appreciation gifts are appropriate for all employees, regardless of their background or lifestyle. For example, if you want to send fun snacks or food to an employee for their work anniversary, make sure you know their dietary preferences and restrictions. 

Inclusivity in gifting shows that you value diversity and respect your employees’ different needs and tastes.

4. Budget-friendly options

While it’s important to show appreciation, it’s also important to stay within budget. Fortunately, you don’t have to break the bank to find thoughtful gifts that will be appreciated. By focusing on personalization and practicality, you can choose meaningful and budget-friendly gifts. It’s the thought behind the gift that counts, not the price tag.

Top 10 appreciation gifts for employees

Here’s a list of employee appreciation gift ideas to give you inspiration. 

1. Point-based recognition with GoProfiles

With GoProfiles, an employee recognition tool, you can give personalized “bravo” badges to celebrate coworkers. These badges will be publicly displayed in your dedicated communication channels like Slack and MS Teams. 

With these bravos, you can also give points to coworkers. These points can be redeemed for various gift cards — so employees can get exactly what they want. 

Why it works: This approach fosters a positive culture by incentivizing excellence and allowing employees to earn points that can be redeemed for tangible rewards like Amazon gift cards.

2. Tech gadgets

Items like wireless earbuds, portable chargers, or ergonomic desk accessories are practical and tech-savvy.

Why it works: Tech gadgets are both useful and relevant, especially in today’s digital-first workplaces. They cater to the modern employee’s needs and preferences.

3. Experience-based gifts

Some people don’t like receiving more “stuff,” so they’ll appreciate an experience instead. Offer vouchers for experiences like cooking classes, virtual concerts, or weekend getaways. 

Why it works: Experience-based gifts create lasting memories and offer employees something to look forward to outside of work.

4. Gift cards

Gift cards to popular retailers, restaurants, or online stores offer flexibility, allowing employees to choose something they genuinely want. 

Why it works: This option ensures that the employee gets something they will actually use and appreciate, making it a safe yet effective choice.

*Note: With GoProfiles, team members can redeem their bravo points for gift cards!

5. Personalized office supplies

Custom notebooks, engraved pens, or unique desk organizers make for thoughtful and practical gifts.

Why it works: Personalized office supplies add a special touch to the everyday items employees use, making work feel a bit more personal and enjoyable.

6. Subscription services

Offer subscriptions to popular services like streaming platforms, meal kits, or online learning.

Why it works: Subscriptions provide ongoing value, making the gift last longer and offering continuous enjoyment or learning opportunities.

7. Home office upgrades

Consider ergonomic chairs, desk lamps, or noise-canceling headphones to enhance the home office environment.

Why it works: With many employees working from home, these upgrades show that you’re invested in their comfort and productivity.

8. Fun food deliveries 

Gift an Uber Eats voucher or have a yummy treat delivered from Crumbl Cookie or Edible Arrangements. Just make sure it aligns with your employee’s dietary preferences. Have it delivered to their door for a fun surprise. 

Why it works: Food deliveries are a universally appreciated gesture that brings immediate joy. Plus, the convenience of having a treat delivered straight to their door adds an element of surprise and delight.

Read about how GoProfiles allows your team to enjoy real-life benefits for their excellent work. 

Benefits of appreciation gifts for employees

• Positive workplace culture: Consistent appreciation fosters a positive workplace culture where employees feel valued and motivated. When employees know their efforts are recognized, they’re more likely to contribute to a supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Increased employee engagement: Employee engagement is closely linked to recognition. Regular appreciation helps employees feel connected to their work and the company’s goals, driving higher levels of engagement and commitment.
• Long-term loyalty: Loyalty is built on trust and appreciation. When employees feel consistently appreciated, they’re more likely to stay with the company, reducing turnover and contributing to a stable and experienced workforce.

Celebrate your team with GoProfiles

To take your employee recognition to the next level, consider incorporating GoProfiles into your strategy. With GoProfiles, you can seamlessly integrate point-based rewards and recognition, making appreciation a natural part of your company culture. 

Explore how GoProfiles can transform your employee engagement today!