The holiday season is fast approaching, and if you’re running a small business, you’re likely thinking about how to celebrate your team’s hard work. But what about your new hires?
They’ve only been with you for a short time, and you’re wondering: is it weird to give them a Christmas gift or bonus just weeks after they’ve joined the team? Or should you stick to tradition and reward your long-standing employees instead?
It turns out, giving a new employee a Christmas gift can be one of the best ways to make them feel valued, appreciated, and excited about their future with your company. Here’s why it’s not just a kind gesture—it’s a smart business move that can pay dividends for your company culture and morale.
A gift that makes them feel part of the team
When a new employee walks into your office (or logs into the company chat), they’re still getting their bearings. They’re learning the ropes, adapting to the culture, and figuring out how they fit in. Giving them a Christmas gift—whether it’s a voucher, a bottle of something nice, or a small token of appreciation—helps break the ice and shows that you view them as a full-fledged team member, even if they’ve only been with you for a few weeks. It’s an instant way to say, “We’re glad you’re here.”
Pro-rated but thoughtful: Gifts that show you care
One of the most common concerns about gifting to new employees is whether it’s fair to give them the same gift as those who have been with the company longer. The answer? Not necessarily. Many employers recommend pro-rating the gift based on how long the new hire has been with the company. For instance, if your long-time employees are receiving a £50 voucher, consider giving your new hire something smaller like a £25 voucher or a fun gift that fits their personality.
This approach isn’t just fair—it’s thoughtful. It shows you care, but also that you understand the dynamics of being a new employee. It’s a perfect balance of appreciation and realism.
Setting the Tone for the Future
The holiday season is a time for generosity and goodwill, and giving a gift to your new employee sets the tone for the rest of their journey with your company. It’s a subtle, yet powerful way to signal that you value their contribution and want them to stick around. When a new hire feels appreciated from the get-go, they’re more likely to stay engaged and committed to the role.
Remember, the gift doesn’t have to be huge. Even a small gesture can make your new hire feel like they’re in the right place and that they’ve made the right choice by joining your team. And it sets a precedent for how you treat employees in the future—a culture of recognition is a culture that thrives.
Personalizing the Gift for Extra Impact
To make your Christmas gift even more memorable, add a personal touch. A simple note like, “This is your first Christmas with us, and we wanted to thank you for jumping in so quickly and contributing to the team,” can make all the difference. It’s not about the price tag—it’s about the thought behind it.
Personalizing the gift shows that you see your employees as more than just workers; they’re individuals, and their unique contributions are valued. Whether it’s a handwritten card or a conversation to express your gratitude, the little touches matter.
Show them they’re not just ‘new’—they’re part of the family
One of the biggest fears new employees often have is not fitting in or being overlooked in a sea of established team members. A Christmas gift is a simple, yet powerful way to show your new hire that they’re not just a temporary part of the team—they’re here for the long haul, and they matter. It’s an easy way to integrate them into the team culture and make them feel like they belong.
It’s more than a gift—it’s an investment in your company culture
The benefits of giving a Christmas gift to your new employee extend beyond the holiday season. It’s about creating a culture where employees feel appreciated, valued, and recognized for their hard work. And this isn’t just a feel-good gesture—it’s an investment. When employees feel appreciated, they’re more motivated, more productive, and more likely to stay with your company.
Think of it this way: by spending a small amount of money on a thoughtful gift, you’re investing in your employee’s loyalty and happiness, which ultimately benefits your business in the long run.
Christmas gifts for new employees aren’t weird, they’re brilliant
So, is it weird to give your new hire a Christmas gift? Absolutely not. In fact, it’s a brilliant move that shows you’re a thoughtful and engaged employer who values your team—no matter how long they’ve been with you. A small token of appreciation for your new employee is a great way to build loyalty, set the stage for a positive work culture, and make sure everyone feels like a part of the team from day one.
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