It’s been a roller coaster of emotions over the past few months – and we’re not talking about a kiddie ride here. It’s been more like that rickety old wooden roller coaster that was built in the 50’s and shakes violently throughout the entire ride.
That one. 
A roller coaster ride like that can leave us incredibly dizzy with a lingering headache while trying to enjoy the rest of the park.
That’s pretty much how 2020 has gone for most of us as we crawl our way through all of the buzz on politics, injustice, and pandemics – not to mention Mother Nature and all of her rage.
The holidays are expected to look quite different this year, and it’s likely to come with lots of emotions as most people will choose to break their annual holiday traditions. But just because it will be different doesn’t mean it has to be lackluster.
There is an opportunity to make lemons out of lemonade here, and part of that is through meaningful and intentional holiday gifts.
Who doesn’t love receiving a gift in the mail?
Unboxing has been trending on social media over the past few months as brand ambassadors – both employees or consumers alike – are bragging about the cool stuff that their favorite company sent them. Businesses are reaching out with fun gifts to help maintain engagement on all levels in new and exciting ways. Here are a few of the gifting trends that we’ve seen recently:
- Welcoming employees back to the office with their own PPE and desk gifts
- Rebranding campaigns utilizing direct mailings with info and merchandise
- Digital movie and food delivery gift cards to break up the days at home
- Kitchen accessories like aprons, oven mitts, and cutting boards as more people are making meals at home
- Self care gifts like essential oils, stress relievers, and eye masks – yeah, and maybe some essential PPE stuff, too.
- Personalized items because, well, sharing is no longer caring
- Employee appreciation to show gratitude for hard work during trying times
The most important thing about corporate gifting this year is to choose gifts wisely and with intent. Employees are likely struggling more than ever to balance their work and home lives, so any gift that lifts a burden or eases some of the tension will be greatly appreciated. Help them to make the most of their time at home, and let’s find a way to help with one of the most critical component of the holiday season: togetherness.
