Christmas bonuses and benefits: how to communicate them efficiently to employees

For most people, Christmas is a time of relaxation, gratitude, and togetherness. For employers, however, it also offers an ideal opportunity to demonstrate their appreciation to their employees, whether in the form of Christmas bonuses, benefits, or expression of personal gratitude. But for this action to have a true effect, giving alone is not enough. Communication is essential.

Clear and well-timed communication

Christmas benefits should not be a last-minute surprise. They will be more appreciated if employees know about them in advance and in a comprehensible way.

– Provide information about conditions, amount of contribution, or forms of remuneration (e.g. voucher, bonus, gift box).
– Accentuate the reason why you are providing the benefit—thankfulness for work, motivation for the coming year, recognition of loyalty.
– Use multiple communication channels – a personal meeting, via intranet, email, bulletin board in the company facilities, or a short video from management.

Extra hint: If you have more than one operation or shift working hours, remember to customize your communication so that the information reaches everyone, including people in night shifts and seasonal workers.

Personalize the message

A gift or benefit is important, but a personal message from management matters even more. A short note expressing gratitude or the owner’s signature can make employees more happy than an anonymous email. In this way, you show the benefit is accompanied by sincere gratitude, not just obligation.

Associate benefits with brand values

Christmas benefits are an outstanding opportunity to present what your company stands for. If you prioritize sustainability, you can choose to give gifts from local producers. If you value caring, give something that brings comfort – for instance quality hygiene products for home or workplace.

Such a connection will support corporate identity and also strengthen trust between employees and the employer.

Also involve managers

Managers and team leaders play a key role in communication. They are the persons closest to employees and can deliver information in a more personal way. Encourage them to add their personalized expression of gratitude to the Christmas message, as they are the ones who know their people’s achievements best.

Remember humanity

Christmas is often a time of increased stress. Employees will appreciate it all the more if understanding and empathy are expressed in company communication. A simple sentence such as “We know this is a challenging time and that is exactly why we value your work even more.” can work wonders.

Christmas benefits are most valuable when they are accompanied by sincere gratitude and a clear message. Effective communication can turn a simple statement into a moment of togetherness, motivation, and pride.

Interested in more hints on how to improve your company culture, team motivation, and workplace wellbeing?

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