It's the end of the year, and you're scrambling to find the perfect team holiday gifts. Everyone's working from home, and you're stuck. Do you go with the usual tacky ornament or the generic gift card? But wait, there’s a way to make your team feel appreciated even in their PJs. We’re here to help you find gifts that bring joy and show you care about your team’s remote work life. Say goodbye to boring gifts and hello to a happy team.
Giftpack's company branded swag makes it easy to impress your team with thoughtful gifts.
The Reality of Remote Work
Remote Work's New Normal: Why It's Not Going Anywhere
Remote work is here to stay, but research shows otherwise. Despite the noise of people returning to the office, Stanford’s WFH Research team notes that about 30 percent of full workdays in the U.S. are remote. This number has been steady since 2022 and might even rise in 2024.
Before the pandemic, it was just 5 to 7 percent. In the UK, firms predict that remote work levels 2028 will mirror those in 2023. Younger companies that rely more on remote work are growing fast. They’re more productive and have lower wage growth, so remote work sticks around.
Challenges of Remote Work: Isolation and Burnout
Remote work isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Many struggle to connect on a human level. Buffer’s state of remote work shows that working from home can lead to loneliness and nonstop work.
Employees often report feeling undervalued. This issue is often raised in virtual surveys, but only sometimes with solutions. In a tough job market, companies can’t afford to lose talent. They must focus on wellness and a strong culture to keep people engaged.
The Hidden Costs: Time and Productivity
Remote workers often work more due to the distance from the office. This might sound counterintuitive, but being away from the office can blur the lines between work and personal time, leading to longer hours. Companies should consider ways to improve the experience for their remote teams.
How Remote Work Impacts Employers & Organizations
1. The Remote Work Revolution: A Double-Edged Sword for Employers
Remote work is changing the game for employers and organizations. Remote work offers flexibility, a broader talent pool, and lower overhead costs. It presents challenges like:
- Managing productivity
- Fostering collaboration
- Maintaining company culture
When teams are scattered across locations, employers must adapt to these changes and find new ways to keep their teams engaged and productive.
2. Personalized Engagement: The New Frontier in Remote Work
For many organizations, remote work means rethinking how they connect with employees and customers. With fewer face-to-face interactions, businesses must rely more on virtual communication tools and personalized engagement to maintain relationships.
Employees and customers value meaningful, thoughtful gestures more than ever. As marketing channels become more saturated, businesses must stand out by creating personal, relevant touchpoints that resonate with remote workers.
Personalized Corporate Gifting Made Easy
At Giftpack, our client gifting service simplifies the corporate gifting process while maximizing the impact of each gift. Try Giftpack's client gifting service for free today.
Related Reading
• Holiday Gifts For Employees • Holiday Message To Employees • Christmas Gifts For Employees • Holiday Gifts For Coworkers • Work Christmas Party Games • Christmas Team Building Activities • Staff Christmas Gifts • Holiday Team Building Activities
Why Share Gifts With Remote Workers
Elevate Employee Appreciation with Thoughtful Gestures
Gift-giving is a powerful way to show appreciation, especially for remote workers who may feel disconnected. Many employees feel undervalued, and generic corporate gifts often fail to convey genuine gratitude. Personalized gifts can make remote employees feel recognized and valued for their hard work. This boosts morale and fosters a sense of belonging, crucial for remote teams.
When employees feel appreciated, it enhances their job satisfaction and loyalty. A survey found that many employees believe receiving thoughtful gifts contributes to their happiness at work. By investing in gift-giving, companies demonstrate that they care about their employees' well-being, leading to increased retention rates.
Build Stronger Connections Across the Miles
Remote work can be isolating, and casual interactions that foster relationships in traditional office settings are often missing. Sending gifts can create joy and connection, helping remote workers feel more engaged with their team and company culture.
This can lead to improved trust and collaboration among team members. Employees who feel connected are more likely to be productive and engaged, which benefits the organization.
Boost Employee Happiness and Loyalty with Thoughtful Gifts
Employees receiving gifts can enhance their overall job satisfaction and organizational loyalty. A survey found that many employees believe receiving thoughtful gifts contributes to their happiness at work.
By investing in gift-giving, companies demonstrate that they care about their employees' well-being. This can lead to increased retention rates and reduced turnover, which is especially important in a competitive job market where retaining top talent is crucial for success.
Create a Positive Company Culture That Spans the Globe
Gift-giving can be vital in shaping a positive company culture, especially in remote work environments. Celebrating achievements or milestones through gifts reinforces a culture of recognition and appreciation.
This practice helps create an inclusive atmosphere where employees feel connected to the organization's values and mission. Employees who feel part of a positive culture are more likely to be engaged and productive, which benefits the organization.
Make Virtual Interactions Fun and Engaging
Remote work often limits social interactions to formal meetings, which can become monotonous. Incorporating gift-giving into virtual events, such as team-building activities or casual catch-ups can make these interactions more enjoyable and engaging.
This approach encourages employees to participate actively, fostering a sense of community even from afar. When virtual interactions are fun and engaging, employees are more likely to be productive and satisfied with their work.
Increased employee retention.
Employees who are happy at work, trust their employer, and see the company's values align with how they are treated will be more likely to stay at their jobs. According to an O.C. Tanner survey, 53% of employees said they would stay longer if their employers showed more appreciation for why they do.
What Gifts Do Employees Want?
What do remote employees want from their holiday gifts? Think practical. Remote workers need things that improve their work-from-home setup. Ergonomic desk accessories or tech gadgets like a high-quality webcam can make a big difference. These gifts are useful and show you understand what they need.
Personal Enjoyment and Wellness: Show You Care
Remote work can be stressful. Offer gifts that help employees relax and recharge. Consider things like:
- Wellness kits
- Cozy blankets
- Personalized journals
These gifts show you care about their mental and physical well-being. They’re not just gifts but a way to show appreciation and support.
Trendy and Tech-Savvy: Keep Them Connected
Employees appreciate gifts that keep them in tune with the latest trends. Consider tech gadgets like wireless chargers or smart home devices. Sustainable products or eco-friendly gear can also be a hit. These practical, thoughtful gifts show you’re in touch with what’s current.
Make It Personal: Thoughtful Gifts Matter
Employees want gifts that feel personal and meaningful. Choose items that align with their lifestyle and thoughtfully show appreciation. This could be as simple as a handwritten note or a personalized item. The key is to make it feel special and unique.
Related Reading
• Best Gift Cards For Employees • Team Christmas Gifts • Holiday Party Ideas For Work • Thanksgiving Corporate Gifts • Office Christmas Party Food Ideas • Christmas Theme Ideas For Work • Thanksgiving Gifts For Employees • What To Get Employees For Christmas • New Year Gifts For Employees • Gift Cards For Employees Taxable • Christmas Party Gift Ideas For Employees • New Year Corporate Gifts
50 Best Work From Home Gifts For Remote Workers
1. Wellness Gifts
Wellness gifts prioritize the health and well-being of your employees, showing that you care about their overall lifestyle, not just their work performance.
2. Personalized Yoga Mats
A customized yoga mat with an employee’s name or favorite design encourages them to take time for self-care. Yoga helps reduce stress and improve physical health, positively impacting their work-life balance.
3. Desk Plants
A small, low-maintenance plant, such as a succulent or a snake plant, brings a bit of nature indoors. Studies show that desk plants can improve air quality and reduce stress, making them a great addition to home office spaces.
4. Aromatherapy Diffusers
Essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or peppermint can help create a calming atmosphere. An aromatherapy diffuser encourages employees to take mindful breaks throughout their workday.
5. Subscription to a Meditation App
Gifting a subscription to apps like Calm or Headspace can help employees manage stress and improve mental clarity. These apps offer guided meditation, sleep aids, and breathing exercises.
6. Self-Care Gift Set
Create a customized self-care kit with bath salts, face masks, candles, and soothing tea. This kit allows employees to unwind and recharge after long workdays, promoting better mental and physical health.
7. Ergonomic Footrests
Long hours of sitting can be uncomfortable, but an ergonomic footrest helps improve posture, reduces leg strain, and provides comfort, enhancing the remote working experience.
8. Tech Gifts
Tech gifts can make remote work more efficient and enjoyable, giving employees the tools they need for a smoother day-to-day experience.
9. Wireless Charging Pad
Simplify the process of keeping devices charged with a wireless charging pad. These sleek devices reduce clutter and keep phones, earbuds, and smartwatches powered up throughout the day.
10. Noise-Canceling Headphones
Ideal for remote workers, noise-canceling headphones block out background noise, enabling better focus during meetings or work sessions in busy households. They're especially beneficial for employees who share their home office space.
11. Webcam Cover
A small but practical gift, a webcam cover ensures privacy when the camera isn’t in use, offering peace of mind for employees concerned about security.
12. Portable Laptop Stand
A portable laptop stand helps create an ergonomic setup, allowing employees to alternate between sitting and standing or improving the angle of their screen for better posture.
13. Smart Water Bottle
These bottles track water intake and remind employees to stay hydrated throughout the day. Hydration is key for productivity and overall health; this tech-savvy gift ensures they don’t forget.
14. Experiential Gifts
Experiential gifts allow employees to engage in new activities or learn new skills, enhancing their personal lives outside of work.
15. Virtual Cooking Class
Gifting a virtual cooking class is a fun and interactive way for employees to learn new recipes or cooking techniques. It is also a great activity for family or friends, making it an ideal holiday gift.
16. Online Learning Subscription
Provide access to learning platforms like MasterClass or Udemy, where employees can explore courses ranging from personal development to creative arts. This investment in their growth shows that you value their lifelong learning.
17. Concert or Event Streaming
Offer access to virtual concerts, theater shows, or sports events. Employees can enjoy these from home comfort, adding a fun and cultural element to their holiday season.
18. Wine or Whiskey Tasting Kit
Send a curated selection of wines or whiskeys for a virtual tasting experience. This gift provides a relaxing activity employees can enjoy with loved ones or co-workers.
19. Escape Room Game
Virtual escape room kits offer a fun, team-building experience that employees can enjoy with family or co-workers. It’s a creative way to bring a sense of adventure and collaboration into remote settings.
20. Everyday Practical Gifts
Practical gifts make life easier for remote employees, enhancing their daily routines with thoughtful additions to their workspace or workday.
21. Customizable Desk Organizer
Keeping their workspace tidy can boost productivity, and a customizable desk organizer ensures all their essentials, pens, notes, and chargers, are easily accessible and neatly stored.
22. Blue Light Blocking Glasses
Staring at screens all day can cause eye strain. Blue light-blocking glasses help filter out harmful blue light from computer screens, reducing fatigue and discomfort for remote workers.
23. Portable Mug Warmer
For employees who get lost at work and forget about their coffee or tea, a portable mug warmer is a lifesaver, keeping beverages at the perfect temperature for longer.
24. USB Desk Fan or Heater
Comfort is key when working from home, and a small USB-powered fan or heater can help employees regulate their desk temperature, ensuring they stay focused and comfortable.
25. Reversible Desk Pad
These stylish, practical desk pads protect surfaces while providing a smooth workspace for writing or using a mouse. They come in various colors, making them a simple yet functional gift.
26. Kids activity sets
This is perfect for those with children at home who could use some extra entertainment, ages 5-8. It’s a perfect WFH gift so employees can have fun with their families in their off-time. Plus, it’s a neat way to ask what remote team members think.
27. Office Upgrades
Home office upgrades make work more comfortable and productive, ensuring employees have the tools to thrive in a remote setting.
28. Standing Desk Converter
A standing desk converter allows employees to alternate between sitting and standing, promoting better posture and reducing the health risks associated with sitting for long hours.
29. Task Lighting
Adjustable LED desk lamps offer focused lighting, which is important for video calls or evening work sessions. Task lighting can reduce eye strain and create a more pleasant work environment.
30. Comfortable Ergonomic Chair
A quality ergonomic chair can drastically improve comfort, offering lumbar support and adjustable settings to fit each employee’s needs. It's a big but worthwhile investment in their long-term well-being.
31. Cable Management Set
A cable management kit can help employees organize their cords, reducing clutter and frustration. It’s a simple way to upgrade their workspace while keeping things neat.
32. Personalized Mouse Pad
A personalized or branded mouse pad adds a fun and unique touch to their desk. It’s a small item, but it can brighten up their workspace.
33. Fun & Personalized Gifts
Personalized gifts add a thoughtful, creative touch, helping employees feel recognized for their individuality.
34. Customized Nameplate
A custom desk nameplate adds a professional yet personal touch to their home office. It’s a fun gift that employees can proudly display, helping to boost morale.
35. Personalized Water Bottles
A customized water bottle with their name or favorite quote can remind them to stay hydrated while working. It's practical and shows attention to detail.
36. Company Swag Box
Create a company-branded swag box filled with hoodies, notebooks, pens, and mugs. This can help build a sense of belonging, even for remote employees who may feel disconnected from the office culture.
37. Customized Puzzle
Send a puzzle created from a meaningful image, like a team photo or a scenic landscape. This is a fun, relaxing activity for employees to enjoy with their families over the holidays.
38. Personalized Journals
A journal customized with their name or company logo is a great gift for jotting down ideas, to-do lists, or personal reflections.
39. Food & Beverage Gifts
Food and beverage gifts are always a hit, especially during the holidays. They add a delightful touch to employees' day-to-day lives.
40. Gourmet Snack Box
Curate a selection of artisan snacks from around the world. Employees can enjoy savory and sweet treats while working or during their breaks, adding a bit of indulgence to their workday.
41. Coffee Subscription
A monthly coffee subscription from a local roastery or a premium coffee brand delivers freshly roasted beans or blends right to their door, ensuring they have their caffeine fix.
42. Personalized Tumbler or Mug
A custom tumbler or mug can be a fun, practical gift. Add their name or an inspirational quote so that they can enjoy their morning coffee or tea in style.
43. Artisan Chocolate Box
A box of high-quality, handmade chocolates is a decadent treat sure to please. These can be customized with flavors or brands that employees love.
44. Virtual Cooking Kit
Send a meal kit with all the necessary ingredients to cook a delicious meal. It's a fun way to encourage a break from work, with clear instructions for preparing something special.
45. Subscriptions & Memberships
Subscriptions provide ongoing value, giving employees access to various experiences and services beyond the holiday season.
46. Streaming Service Subscription
Give access to entertainment platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+ so they can unwind with their favorite shows or movies after a long workday.
47. Monthly Book Box
For the bookworms on your team, a monthly book subscription offers curated books based on their reading preferences. It’s a thoughtful gift that keeps on giving.
48. Meal Kit Subscription
Services like HelloFresh or Blue Apron deliver fresh ingredients and recipes straight to customers' doors, simplifying mealtime and making dinner more exciting.
49. Music Streaming Subscription
Give employees access to ad-free music on platforms like Spotify Premium or Apple Music, enhancing their workday with personalized playlists.
50. Fitness App Membership
Help them stay active by giving them access to workout routines through fitness apps like Peloton or FitOn, which offer everything from strength training to yoga sessions.
How to Easily Send Work From Home Gifts to Your Remote Workers
Budget: Your First Step to Success
Kick things off by nailing down your budget. Enthusiasm aside, knowing what you can spend is crucial. Suppose your company has a set amount; that would be fantastic. Just ensure you have clear approval for this specific project. No set budget? Time to do some homework. Ask around, benchmark similar expenses, and get your estimates approved by decision-makers.
Quantity: More Than Just a Number
Once you’ve got your budget, consider how many gifts you need. Buying for the whole team? Base it on headcount, but add extras for new hires or last-minute additions. Larger groups or staggered distribution? Consider upcoming months or even the year. Planning can save headaches later.
Vendor Choice: Your Key to Quality
Selecting the right vendor is crucial for high-quality, personalized swag. Find one that fits your needs and budget. Companies like Giftpack offer customizable options, using AI to match swag with preferences, making gifts feel personal and thoughtful. Compare vendors on pricing, product offerings, and delivery options to get the best value.
Timing: Don’t Get Caught in a Rush
Timing is everything. Consider lead times if you want your swag to arrive by a specific date. Depending on customization and shipping, they can range from a week to several weeks. Most vendors need at least 5-10 business days, so plan and add buffer time for unexpected delays.
Personalization: Make It Mean Something
Personalized swag leaves a better impression. Custom-branded items or thoughtful touches like team members’ names make gifts feel special and connected to your brand. Think beyond generic items and explore options that reflect your team’s culture and values.
Checks & Balances for Sending Work From Home Gifts
Personalize, Don’t Generalize
Generic gifts might save time, but they rarely make a lasting impression. Consider what each employee might enjoy instead of sending everyone the same branded mug.
A personalized gift that resonates with their interests or needs goes a long way. Consider using a questionnaire or gift platform to gather preference data, ensuring each gift feels like it was chosen just for them.
Branding Without the Overkill
While branding on gifts can be a marketing tool, too much of it can feel insincere. Employees want to feel appreciated, not like walking advertisements. Focus on selecting gifts that enhance personal well-being or enjoyment. A quality notebook or wellness kit can express genuine gratitude better than a logo-covered item.
Apparel: Size Matters
Branded clothing is tricky; sizes vary between manufacturers, leading to potential disappointments. If clothing is part of your gift plan, consider using a service that offers flexible sizing options. You can allow employees to select their preferred sizes discreetly through a survey, ensuring they receive something they’ll wear.
Food Gifts: Tread Lightly
Sending food is fraught with risks, from allergies to dietary restrictions. With about 10% of adults affected by food allergies, avoiding food gifts is safer unless you’re certain of recipients’ needs. If you’re set on sending edible items, opt for customizable options like gift cards for food delivery services, allowing employees to choose what suits them best.
Encourage Open Dialogue
Employees may hesitate to express their gifting preferences, leading to potential missteps. Foster a culture of open communication where team members feel comfortable sharing their likes and dislikes. Implement a feedback mechanism or survey to gather insights. This not only aids in selecting appropriate gifts but also promotes a culture of inclusion and appreciation.
Personalized Corporate Gifting Made Easy
At Giftpack, our client gifting service simplifies the corporate gifting process while maximizing the impact of each gift. Try Giftpack's client gifting service for free today.
8 Tips for Remote Workers Appreciation and Recognition
1. Harness the Power of Digital Tools
Recognizing remote workers starts with using platforms like Slack, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams to send quick messages of thanks. Regularly acknowledge your team's contributions during team meetings or through dedicated channels. This builds a culture where appreciation is the norm.
2. Respect Work-Life Balance
Respect working hours and promote flexible schedules to promote a healthy work-life balance. When employees feel their time is valued, their satisfaction and loyalty naturally increase.
3. Give Constructive Feedback
Provide feedback that highlights strengths and areas for improvement. This helps employees grow and shows you are invested in their development. Recognizing their efforts meaningfully can boost confidence and motivation.
4. Have Real Conversations
Stay connected with your remote employees by asking about their well-being, interests, and career goals. This personal touch strengthens relationships and makes employees feel more appreciated.
5. Promote Peer Recognition
Encourage team members to recognize each other’s efforts. A peer recognition program fosters camaraderie and a supportive atmosphere within the team.
6. Implement Wellness Programs
Introduce programs that promote physical and mental well-being. Offering resources like gym memberships or mindfulness sessions shows you care about your employees’ health, enhancing their loyalty to the company.
7. Provide Growth Opportunities
Invest in your employees’ growth by offering workshops, online courses, or mentorship opportunities. Recognizing their potential boosts morale and equips them with new skills.
8. Celebrate Milestones
Celebrate work anniversaries, project completions, and personal milestones. Acknowledging these moments makes remote workers feel valued as part of the team’s journey.
FAQs on Gifting WFH Employees
Finding the ideal gift for remote employees can be a game-changer. It’s all about showing appreciation and understanding their unique work-from-home experience. Generic gifts often miss the mark, so aim for thoughtful and personalized options. Consider practical items like ergonomic office supplies that boost productivity.
Go for personal touches that make their workspace more enjoyable. Wellness subscriptions or relaxation items can also hit the spot. The key is acknowledging their preferences while fostering connection and appreciation within the team.
Rewarding Remote Employees: Beyond the Basics
Rewarding remote employees takes a thoughtful approach. Personalized gifts tailored to individual preferences can show genuine appreciation. Think gift cards, subscriptions, or customized care packages. Recognition programs that highlight achievements can also motivate remote employees. Public acknowledgment during team meetings or company-wide communications reinforces their value.
Training sessions or courses are another great way to invest in employees’ growth while enhancing their skills. Organizing fun virtual events fosters camaraderie among remote teams, making employees feel more connected. Providing resources or incentives for health and wellness activities shows that the company cares about employees' well-being.
Build A Meaningful Employee Recognition Program With Ease with Giftpack's Client Gifting Service
Giftpack is transforming how you approach corporate gifting. Using a custom AI algorithm, it streamlines the entire process and maximizes the impact of each gift. But how does this work for you? Imagine handling a holiday party gift list for your employees. Giftpack takes the pressure off by curating personalized swag box options. You get a user-friendly experience that literally and figuratively delivers to your team and your business.
The Art of Personalization
Giftpack doesn’t just send generic gifts. It uses advanced AI to dive into the details:
- Demographics
- Preferences
- Social media activity
It’s not about being creepy but understanding what makes people tick. Whether you’re gifting employees, VIP clients, or even close friends and family, Giftpack ensures that each selection feels personal and thoughtful.
Global Reach, Local Touch
Giftpack offers a vast catalog with over 3.5 million products worldwide. This means you get a wide range of locally and globally sourced gifts. Why does this matter? It allows you to connect meaningfully, regardless of where your recipient is. Imagine sending a gift to an employee in Tokyo that feels just as special as one sent to a client in New York. Giftpack makes it happen.
Conclusion-Free Zone
Ready to see it in action? Try Giftpack’s client gifting service for free today!
Related Reading
• Holiday Swag Ideas • New Year Team Building Activities • Holiday Bonuses • Thanksgiving Employee Appreciation Ideas • Holiday Party Gift Ideas For Employees • Office Holiday Party Gift Ideas • Holiday Staff Appreciation Ideas • Holiday Gifts For Remote Employees • Gift Giving At Work Guidelines • Account Based Marketing Gifts • Gifts for Coworkers Christmas • Corporate Christmas Gifts
Make your gifting efficient and improve employee attrition rates with Giftpack AI
Visit our product page to unlock the power of personalized employee appreciation gifts.
