How many
companies give turkeys to their workers each year over the holidays? While
estimates are hard to attain, some studies show that it’s probably a little
less than 3%.
According to a survey few
years ago of 210 businesses by the Bureau
of National Affairs,
the figure has bounced around, tumbling from about 5 or 6 percent each year between
2000 and 2004 to only 2 percent in 2005 and 3 percent in 2006.
Americans associate turkeys with the feast that Pilgrims and Indians
shared after a bountiful harvest in Colonial days. And some historians
speculate that passing out turkeys to workers during the holidays began in
19th-century England with bosses who had read about, and did not want to be
compared with, Ebenezer Scrooge (who, after all, eventually bought one for Bob
Cratchit).
But times have changed. Stats today
show that over 4 times more companies give away gift certificates for the
holidays rather than the actual turkeys.
The employees use them to redeem for almost anything at the
supermarket. Others give away the kind
of super gift certificates that can be redeemed for either grocery stores, or
many other brand named retailers. So
many things have changed in the American workforce that giving employees a
choice of what they want is a far more popular option.
Why do companies use holiday gifts for employees?
It’s good business
Employee
recognition is a key piece of employee engagement and a holiday gift shows you
care and are grateful for employees’ hard work and dedication to the success of
your business.
It’s an opportunity for managers to
engage with employees
Sharing the
gift, personally, with a big smile, warm handshake and hearty “Thank You” is a
priceless opportunity for managers to make employees feel valued and
appreciated.
It’s about family
These gifts
are often shared with families and add joy to their holiday season. Holiday
gifts embody the grateful spirit of the season, and that includes your company’s
gratitude.
For
more information on Ultimate Choice Inc.’s products or services or other white
papers please contact us at Ultimatechoiceinfo@cox.net
