5 Best Holiday Gifts for Your Employees

Skip the grinch but not the green.

If you're in the workforce long enough, you tend to accumulate a lot of, let's call it "flair." You know, all those random items with your company's logo cheerily emblazoned upon them. It's become the traditional holiday gift for many companies large and small.

Are these swag items sometimes useful? Sure. Are they what your employees really want for the holidays? Probably not.

Unless you know your employees very well -- which, unless you're friends who regularly hang out off the clock, you probably don't -- it can be hard to pick a gift they'll truly enjoy. Instead, consider one of these universally awesome gifts for your employees this holiday season.

1. Pay raises

The number one thing just about every employee has on their holiday list? A raise.

Even at the best of times, most people would like to make more money -- and these aren't exactly the best of times. Inflation is slowing, but it's still hitting many people hard. A pay raise is a great way to show your employees your appreciation for their hard work. (Ideally, this should be in addition to the annual cost of living raise you give your employees already.)

2. Cash bonuses

Maybe extra pay raises aren't in the cards -- or the payroll budget. A cash bonus (or check, or direct deposit -- most folks aren't picky) is the next best thing to a permanent raise.

How you divvy up the bonuses may vary on the size and makeup of your staff, but remember to be fair. For example, you could choose to give the same amount to everyone regardless of position or seniority.

Alternatively, you could decide to offer tiered bonuses based on time with the company. Most people understand -- and often appreciate -- rewarding company loyalty with larger bonuses.

3. Extra PTO

No matter how much your employees love their jobs, they'll probably appreciate a little more time away -- on the company dime, of course. This is particularly true if they can use that time when they like.

In other words, even if you close your offices and give everyone the holidays off (but especially if you don't), consider adding some extra PTO to their stocking for use next year. It can be hard to enjoy time off work during the holidays when everything is so busy and travel is a challenge.

4. Year-round perks

It's often the little things that add up to a great workplace, so think about what you can do that will make your employees' lives easier or more enjoyable year-round. This could be anything from instituting a free lunch Friday to providing a monthly fitness credit. Use your own creativity or poll your employees to see what perks they'd enjoy the most.

5. Sincere appreciation

One of the most common complaints employees have is that they don't feel appreciated at work. No matter what else you choose to gift your employees, it should come with an expression of genuine gratitude. A simple method is to pick up a pack of holiday cards and include a hand-written note to each employee.

Gifts they'll really use

Whether you're selecting something for your employees or a loved one, the best holiday gift is something behind which you've put real thought. Recognize your employee's contributions this holiday season with a gift they'll value long after they've lost that branded water bottle or thrown out the overpriced fruit basket.