For many companies, the go-to method for building team spirit still revolves around room-temperature Prosecco, uninspired venues, and cringeworthy icebreakers. Most of us have found ourselves pinned into the corner of a noisy bar, stuck to the floor, listening to a drunk colleague shouting over music.
For years, the workplace social has been seen as essential for team bonding. But with hybrid working on the rise, a growing emphasis on work-life balance, and a push for more inclusive practices, its relevance is being called into question.
More and more businesses operating under this model are discovering that their teams would prefer something far simpler: a meaningful gift delivered to their door, rather than enduring an evening of small talk and pub quizzes. As a result, companies are increasingly turning away from traditional socials and embracing more personal, thoughtful ways to show appreciation — such as sending employee gifts.
These aren’t just any gifts, either. The most impactful gifts for work colleagues are carefully curated, ethically sourced, and tailored to the recipient — offering genuine value and appreciation.
Let’s be honest: who wouldn’t prefer some pampering at home, instead of enduring rush-hour transport for an evening of strained conversation and blaring background noise? Speaking from experience as a remote worker in my mid-forties, I’d take the gift every time.
Gifts for Work Colleagues have Changed
Corporate gifting used to be reserved for top-tier clients and prospects. But today, many companies are shifting focus inward, using thoughtful gifts as a tool to boost staff engagement, morale, and retention.
When chosen well, even a small token can have a big impact. It communicates appreciation, without needing anyone to RSVP, organise childcare, or fake extroversion. It simply arrives — whether to a home address or office desk — as a quiet but powerful gesture: “You matter.”
That said, it’s important to steer clear of generic or gimmicky items destined for landfill. Forget joke gifts and novelty trinkets. A meaningful gift should feel personal, relevant, and genuinely enjoyable.
What Makes a Memorable Gift for a Work Colleague?
WellBox is a great example. This Manchester based company offers curated gift boxes with a focus on sustainability, wellbeing, and leaving a positive impact. Their boxes might contain artisan snacks, calming teas, stylish stationery, or wellness products — all thoughtfully chosen. There are lots to choose from so that you can be sure to choose the right gifts for work colleagues.
What sets WellBox apart even more is their charitable approach. Every box supports causes like mental health charities or food banks, adding another layer of meaning to the gesture.
I’ve used WellBox for both client gifting and internal appreciation campaigns, and the feedback has been unanimously positive. Remote team members and those less inclined towards the pubs and bars, especially valued the experience.
Why Traditional Social Events Are Losing Appeal
That’s not to say social events don’t have their place. Some employees still enjoy them. But often, attendance is more about obligation than genuine excitement. From accessibility challenges to different social comfort levels, these events can end up excluding rather than including people.
For example, I lost much of my hearing around a year ago, thanks to a rogue virus. Whilst most environments are manageable, noisy bars have become a very difficult place to be. As a result, I actively dread going to them because it’s so hard to hear people.
It’s also worth noting that it’s usually the same employees that skip these events time and time again — a clear sign that this one-size-fits-all approach may no longer be fit for purpose.
And let’s not forget the potential pitfalls: combining alcohol with workplace dynamics can sometimes result in awkward moments or even HR issues — something a carefully chosen gift will never cause.
Gifts, on the other hand, remove the pressure. There’s no expectation to mingle or stay out late — they simply bring joy, wherever the recipient may be.
During the pandemic, gifting gained popularity as a stand-in for cancelled Christmas parties and work socials. Businesses got creative — and employees still talk about receiving surprise wellness hampers or cocktail kits in the post. That emotional impact has endured.
The Psychology of Gifts for Work Colleagues
There’s real science behind this. Research consistently shows that recognition and appreciation significantly improve job satisfaction and motivation. A surprise gift can make employees feel truly seen and valued.
Unlike a monetary bonus, which may be quickly forgotten or absorbed into bills, a well-selected gift creates an emotional connection. It says more than “thank you” — it builds loyalty and a sense of belonging.
New Approaches Towards Employee Engagement
As teams become more geographically dispersed and culturally diverse, the way businesses build community must evolve too. That doesn’t mean eliminating socials altogether — but it does mean taking a more nuanced, flexible approach to appreciation.
Mixing things up helps avoid fatigue, and ensures that everyone is included. If the only time employees feel recognised is at the annual pub night out, engagement risks becoming stale.
In our own company, gifting has become a cornerstone of how we connect with our team, and our clients. The right gift has the power to reduce stress, create feel-good moments, and remind people that their contribution matters (all without a hangover).
Because let’s face it — people might forget what you said over drinks, but they’ll remember how you made them feel.
