The Power of Gift Boxes: Why Companies Should Embrace Employee Appreciation

In today's competitive business landscape, companies are constantly seeking innovative ways to attract and retain talented employees. While offering competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits packages are crucial, employee engagement and motivation go beyond monetary compensation. One effective method gaining traction is the practice of gifting employees with carefully curated gift boxes. In this blog post, we will explore the numerous benefits of companies giving their employees gift boxes and how they can foster a culture of appreciation and loyalty, backed by evidence-based research.

1. Boosts Employee Morale and Motivation

Receiving a thoughtful gift box from your employer can have a profound impact on employee morale and motivation. According to a study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, employees who receive recognition and appreciation from their supervisors experienced higher levels of job satisfaction and motivation (Eisenberger et al., 2019). The act of gifting serves as a tangible recognition of their hard work and dedication, which, in turn, fosters a positive work environment. When employees feel valued and acknowledged, they are more likely to be motivated, engaged, and productive.

2. Enhances Employee Loyalty and Retention

Employee turnover is a significant concern for organisations. However, by incorporating gift boxes into their employee appreciation strategies, companies can significantly enhance loyalty and retention rates. A research study conducted by Tanner (2021) found that employees who feel appreciated are 88% more likely to stay with their current employer. When employees receive personalised and thoughtful gifts, they develop a sense of attachment to their workplace. This emotional connection goes a long way in building loyalty and reducing the likelihood of employees seeking opportunities elsewhere. When used appropriately, a simple gift box can make a substantial difference in employee satisfaction and long-term commitment.

3. Strengthens Employee Engagement and Collaboration

Gift boxes have the power to strengthen employee engagement and encourage collaboration within teams. A study published in the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology found that when employees feel appreciated, they are more likely to engage in proactive behaviors and exhibit higher levels of cooperation (Li et al., 2018). By curating boxes that include items that promote well-being, such as stress-relief tools or team-building activities, companies can encourage employees to take breaks, de-stress, and bond with their colleagues. This, in turn, enhances teamwork and collaboration, fostering a positive work environment where employees feel supported and connected to one another.

These subtle messages from employers delivered through gifting say "we care about you, and your wellbeing".

4. Demonstrates Appreciation and Encourages Recognition

Gift boxes are not only about the physical items inside; they also serve as a token of appreciation and recognition. According to a survey conducted by Gallup (2019), employees who receive recognition and praise are more likely to have higher levels of engagement, productivity, and satisfaction. When companies take the time to handpick gifts for their employees, it conveys a sincere message that their contributions are valued and acknowledged. This act of recognition can have a lasting impact on employee satisfaction, motivation, and overall well-being. It creates a culture of gratitude and inspires employees to continue striving for excellence.

5. Improves Company Image and Employer Branding

In today's interconnected world, the reputation and image of a company play a significant role in attracting top talent. By incorporating gift boxes into their employee appreciation initiatives, companies demonstrate that they value their employees' well-being and happiness. A study published in the Journal of Business Research found that companies that prioritise employee well-being have higher rates of employee satisfaction, commitment, and positive word-of-mouth recommendations (Rai & Medha, 2019). Word-of-mouth travels fast, and when employees are genuinely satisfied and appreciated, they become brand ambassadors, speaking highly of their workplace culture. This positive reputation enhances the company's image and makes it an attractive prospect for potential candidates.

Conclusion

In an era where employee satisfaction and engagement are critical for organisational success, companies must invest in practices that foster a culture of appreciation and recognition. Gift boxes offer a unique and personal way for companies to show their gratitude for their employees' efforts. The evidence-based research supports the benefits of gifting employees with carefully curated boxes, from boosting morale and motivation to strengthening loyalty and fostering collaboration. By prioritising employee well-being and happiness, companies can create an environment that cultivates loyalty, productivity, and long-term success.

References:

Eisenberger, R., Malone, G. P., & Presson, W. D. (2019). Optimizing perceived organizational support to enhance employee engagement. Journal of Applied Psychology, 104(9), 1237–1255.

O.C. Tanner. (2021). Appreciation, Retention, and What Matters Most to Employees. Retrieved from https://www.octanner.com/insights/articles/2021/06/09/appreciation-retention-what-matters-most.html

Li, Y., Zhang, J., & Zhang, X. (2018). Feeling Appreciated Leads to Proactive Behaviors: A Moderated Mediation Model of Perceived Organizational Support, Task Significance, and Engagement. Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology, 91(4), 829-851.

Gallup. (2019). State of the Global Workplace. Retrieved from https://www.gallup.com/workplace/284180/state-global-workplace-2019.aspx

Rai, S., & Medha, A. (2019). Employer brand and its impact on employee satisfaction, commitment and word of mouth. Journal of Business Research, 96, 315-328.