It’s no secret that high prices and the uncertain economy have hit small businesses hard this year. The bottom line may be that handing out major cash bonuses or big gift cards this December simply isn’t feasible. Instead of stressing about what you can’t offer the people who work for you, focus on what you can give them for a reasonable cash outlay.
1. Try Asking Your Employees What They Want
If you’re wondering what your team will appreciate most at this time of year, ask them, suggests Allison Madison, president of Madison Approach Staffing, a Tarrytown-based company that helps companies solve workforce challenges. “You might hear that your employees would enjoy a catered lunch or perhaps they’d prefer a holiday grab bag where everyone gets to randomly pick a wrapped gift,” she says. “There’s a reason parents have their kids write wish lists. It makes things so much easier when you know what people actually want.”
2. Paid Time off Is Often the Best Perk You Can Give
In today’s climate, work-life balance is huge, says Shantina Ramos, human resource business partner at Brightcore Energy, an energy solutions company in Armonk. “One of the most meaningful and cost-effective ways to recognize employees is by giving the gift of time back,” she says. “Whether that’s an extra PTO day, a half-day with pay, or a flexible afternoon to reset, it sends the message that the organization understands the need to reconnect with family, recharge personally, and still feel valued at work. It goes a long way to employee happiness and loyalty.” Madison co-signs that concept. “Honestly, time is the ultimate luxury gift,” she says. “A mental health day, late-start Mondays, or a flexible holiday schedule gives employees what they don’t have, which is time.”
3. Find Ways to Ease Work-Related Financial Burdens
If you can solve a work-related financial burden, that effort will be appreciated. “Consider covering employee parking for a month, subsidizing commuting costs, or offering backup childcare during school breaks,” Madison says. A move like this removes a very real workplace stressor, which can go a long way toward holiday good will.
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