Office Holiday gifts are tricky business. Here's help.

Budgets are lean. Employees are asked to do more with less. Recognizing good work and thanking loyal customers has never been more important. We all get that. But how?

We've pulled together a few can't miss ideas to help you out. Got fifty people and a budget of about $5/each? Don't think frugal equals throw-away. It just takes a little thought and a plan.

Think flashlights. They're practical and useful, two things your team will appreciate. After the office party, hand them out with a note tied around each that says, "thanks for helping us find our way" or "your bright ideas never stop amazing me." 

Think drinkware. Warm wishes come easy with a sturdy mug. Add a packet of tea or cocoa. Hand them out at a skating party and you've created a memory marker. 

Think totes. Your department is full of soccer moms and dads. Bet there's camping enthusiasts, bicyclists, movie buffs...Start with a basic bag (complete with your logo). A few creative additions inside turns the reusable bag into thoughtful gift wrapping. And tells them you value their 5-to-9 time, too. 

Have some clever office party ideas to share? We'd love to read your comments. 

Comments

[Deb-Holiday Gift Ideas]

I like the ideas above. Also I'd like to add that people really like things like flex time and a little gift like a card they can redeem in terms of coming 1 hour late or leaving 1 hour early can be a nice gift. As a therapist, I see people who often are very stressed out they have no time during work week to do simple tasks like drop off car for repairs, run to bank etc.

But in terms of concrete gifts, there are inexpensive items like booklets you can put your logo on that people would read at doctor's offices and their kids' practices which can give your company exposure.

Movie tickets are also nice, a starbucks card, small bath/body pack, bring in a speaker at lunch time as a treat etc.

Deb