A quarter (25%) of respondents would like to receive a money-based reward, such as cash, a bonus payment within their salary or a gift card or voucher, from their employer this Christmas, according to research by benefits provider Perkbox.
Its survey of 1,000 UK employees also found that 23% of respondents want a pay rise from their organisation as a Christmas reward, while 8% would prefer a team meal out and 7% would like an additional day off on Christmas Eve.
Chieu Cao, chief marketing officer and co-founder at Perkbox, said: “We were not surprised to see the popularity of a money-based bonus, such as cash, a bonus payment or a gift card. Employees want access to personalised gift vouchers, discounts and freebies that can make their pay cheques go further. With Christmas being an expensive time of year, the monetary savings or perks passed on to employees will be greatly appreciated.
“These can offer choice, convenience and flexibility for both the business and the employee. By recognising what staff would really like to receive at Christmas, employers can show their staff how valued they are within the [organisation] and thank them for their efforts throughout the year.”
Less than one in 10 (5%) would like a drink-related gift from their employer this Christmas, compared to 5% who want an early finish on one or more Fridays in December, 4% who would like to receive a food-related gift, such as a hamper or chocolate, and 3% who want a piece of technology that is not given to them for work purposes, for example a tablet, speakers or headphones. A small number (2%) of employees would like to work from home on Christmas Eve and 1% would be happy to receive flowers from their employer as a Christmas present.
Almost one-third (30%) of respondents stated that they had not previously received any gift from their manager at Christmas. Of those who had, 35% were given a team meal out, 29% received a drink-related gift, such as a bottle of wine, and 23% had been given a food-related present.
Cao added: “It is perhaps unsurprising to see that there is a disconnect between what employers give and what employees actually want to receive from their boss at Christmas. However, what is also interesting is the number of employees who don’t receive anything from management at all. Employers are clearly missing an opportunity to engage their staff when they fail to reward and recognise them at Christmas.
“It’s a pity, as there are so many easy ways for employers to show their appreciation, and at a relatively small cost to the business. The positive impact of rewarding and recognising at Christmas would be increased productivity, and improved employee motivation and satisfaction, all year round.”