Most employees want a gift from employers at Christmas to make them feel valued

The majority (94%) of employees want to receive a gift from their employers this Christmas in order to feel valued, appreciated and happy, according to research by Instantprint.

The survey of 1,500 office-based UK employees also found that 29% of respondents would like a gift voucher as their Christmas present from their employer, while a further 29% would appreciate an early finish. This increases to 35% of those who work in the information technology industry.

A fifth (20%) of employees would like a free bar at their organisation’s Christmas party; this is more important for male respondents (22%) compared to female respondents (18%). One in 10 (10%), on the other hand, want a physical gift as their Christmas present, while 7% would like a charitable donation to be made in their name.

A third (33%) of women favour gift vouchers as Christmas presents, versus 23% of men. Around 11% of managers prefer charitable donations.

James Kinsella (pictured), chief executive officer and co-founder at Instantprint, said: “Most [organisations] take part in the festive period, with decorations, Christmas parties and office secret Santas.

“But this research highlights how important a small show of gratitude can be for your workforce. Something as simple as an early finish, free bar at a party or a Christmas gift voucher can make employees feel valued and appreciated. This in turn can help boost employee morale, loyalty and productivity in the workplace.”