Christmas is right around the corner, and if you are like most churches in America, this is the craziest season of the year. With the COVID-19 pandemic, I am sure more time is being poured into intentional planning than many years prior.
Because of our country's economic state, purchasing staff gifts might not be a top priority this year. To offer a little inspiration, we created a short gift guide to help this season:
Make it personal, if possible
From gift cards to hand-wrapped gifts to quality time, I have tried to give a variety of gifts over the years. However, the gifts that have meant the most to my team members are the ones that acknowledge their personal lives.
Personal gifts show your staff they are more than just a person hired to get work done. I have noticed how these gifts seem to be the most appreciated because they required intentionality and thoughtfulness for each team member.
Do you know what your team members do outside of work? What are your team members' hobbies or favorite sports teams? Think of personal gifts that show your team members are valued, not just as someone on staff, but as a person.
On the flip side, if you do not know the answer to any of those questions, I would encourage you to ask those questions and use it as an opportunity to further connect with your team members.
If you can't make it personal...
Maybe you are stretched on time and just need a simple fix this year. Don't fret -- we get it. This year has been crazy, and "busy season" is right around the corner. If that's the situation you're in, take a look at a few gifts we recommend for your facility or maintenance team below:
For under $15, this is a great tool that can be used at home or work. No more loosing screws or drill bits.
For under $30, this can be used for camping, hiking, or even small DIY projects at work or home.
Depending on what part of the country you are in, for under $50, this gift is great for the cold winter days ahead.
Our advice? If you do choose one of the options above, we recommend including a handwritten card or small personalization. Remember, your team members all have their own lives and hardships, just like you.
In Conclusion
We are not robots, and the best gifts are the ones that take genuine thought and effort. When I used to work at Chick-fil-A, my boss gave me a lift kit for my specific truck. Because it was personally purchased for me, it made a very deep impact.
I challenge you with this final question: How can you use gift-giving this season to really impact your team's life with intentional thoughtfulness?
