Work Christmas Parties are Officially out according to new research from Blackhawk Network

·       Only 10% of employees want a Christmas party in 2022

·       60% of employees said that their companies were bad gifters

·       Emerging talent is three times as likely to consider leaving a company if they don't receive holiday gifts during the festive season

As the cost-of-living crisis continues and the UK heads into a recession, employees across industries are more financially conscious than they’ve possibly ever been before. Research from Blackhawk Network reveals that 97% of consumers across the EMEA region are concerned by cost-of-living pressures, with half (50%) citing fuel and utilities cost specifically. Couple this with the fact that employees will be starting to budget for the festive period, and its likely staff will be feeling the pinch more than usual. In fact, 75% of adults are not planning a “big celebration” for Christmas and 70% are cutting back on last year.

Boosting staff morale and engagement  

At a time when employee stress levels are high, it is crucial to ensure they feel supported, acknowledged and valued.  However, with the cost-of-living crises also taking its toll on businesses, offering simple fixes such as pay rises are not always a viable option. But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing they can do to help. Employers can support staff, boost morale and make sure they feel recognised through the reward and incentives strategies they offer in a cost effective way. Ensuring that these rewards are also geared up for helping employees to manage their own finances and make their pay go further will be key. 

Giving the gift of choice

This year employees want their rewards to be meaningful. 60% of employees said that their companies were bad gifters, which is a worrying statistic when emerging talent is three times as likely to consider leaving a company if they don't receive holiday gifts during the festive season. What's more, hosting a Christmas party to show appreciation to staff isn’t going to cut the mustard this year as only 10% of employees want one. The reality is employees want to receive gifts that will give them the freedom to choose what they want. In fact, 63% would want a gift card, Visa or Mastercard. 

Rewarding staff in ways that aligns with their needs, particularly during times of financial stress, helps to boost their happiness and motivates them to feel engaged – something that is especially important in an age where the war for talent is at an all-time high. As stated by 81% of employees, rewards encourage them to work harder. In addition, according to 86% of employees, rewards such as gift cards make them feel valued. Reward right this Christmas and employers will leave staff feeling positive, motivated and supported as they head into the festive period and beyond. 

For more information about the research and to view the infographic please visit: https://blackhawknetwork.com/on-demand/uk-en/insights/the-ultimate-christmas-gift-guide-for-employees/