By Ela Matters Staff 
A well-executed employee gifting program can do more than spread joy. It strengthens workplace relationships, reinforces company culture, and shows your team you care. However, it’s not as simple as handing out tokens of appreciation.
There are budgets to consider, logistics to plan for remote employees, and compliance rules to follow. Thoughtful planning is the key. From budgets to compliance, sourcing to logistics—this guide shares practical tips to make your program seamless and meaningful for everyone.
Set a Clear Budget and Stick to It
One of the first steps in creating a thoughtful gifting program is defining a realistic budget. A clear spending limit keeps things fair across the board, avoids overspending, and helps you plan effectively.
Consider the size of your team and whether gifts will be consistent or tiered by role. For example, holiday-specific presents like Christmas gifts can align with seasonal celebrations but should remain inclusive in tone for diverse teams.
Choose Inclusive Gifts for a Diverse Team
After setting your budget, focus on choosing gifts that resonate with everyone. Thoughtful gifting means considering the diversity within your team and avoiding items that might unintentionally exclude someone based on culture, dietary restrictions, or personal preferences.
Instead of one-size-fits-all options, think about versatile ideas like gift cards to popular stores or experience-based presents. Personalized choices also go a long way in showing genuine care.
Simplify Approval Workflows
Streamlining the approval process ensures your gifting program runs smoothly from start to finish. Clear guidelines on what gifts are appropriate, along with who needs to approve purchases, help avoid delays and confusion.
Create a simple workflow—assign specific team members to oversee approvals and keep documentation organized. For larger teams, consider using tools such as shared spreadsheets or lightweight project management software to maintain transparency.
Plan for Remote and Hybrid Teams
If your workforce includes remote or hybrid employees, thoughtful logistics are essential. Shipping gifts directly to their homes ensures everyone feels included, regardless of location.
Work with vendors who offer delivery services or partner with local suppliers in various regions to simplify the process. Confirm addresses ahead of time, allowing room for any last-minute changes. Digital options like e-gift cards or subscriptions also work well for distributed teams.
Partner with Vendors Who Prioritize Ethical Sourcing
Choosing the right vendors enhances the value of your gifting program. Work with companies that prioritize ethical sourcing, fair labor practices, and sustainability. This not only reflects positively on your organization but also aligns gifts with values that employees can appreciate.
Look for certifications like Fair Trade or B-Corp when evaluating suppliers. Communicate these efforts to your team—knowing their gift supports responsible practices enhances its value.
Review Feedback to Improve Future Programs
Finally, gather feedback from your team. Understanding what worked well and what could be improved ensures future programs are even more successful.
Create a quick survey or encourage open discussions during team meetings to hear their thoughts. Ask about the types of gifts, the delivery process, and the overall experience. Showing you value their input reinforces that the program is truly for them.
Wrapping Up
A thoughtful gifting program isn’t just about the presents—it’s a reflection of how much you value your team. Careful planning, inclusive choices, and attention to meaningful details can turn simple gifts into lasting impressions.
When done right, these gestures strengthen bonds and show genuine appreciation. Remember, it’s not about extravagance but intention—small efforts can create a huge impact that resonates far beyond the moment they’re received.