Located in the middle of the organizational flow chart, it can be easy for managers to feel like the middle of a sandwich. Being overseen by executive-level leadership while managing other employees’ day-to-day can be a challenge, which makes it even more important for organizations to help managers feel appreciated—and not smushed. When an organization makes employee appreciation a priority, workers are 56% less likely to look for a new job.
Ensure managers are feeling the love with a thoughtful token of appreciation. Check out these corporate gift basket ideas for some inspiration.
Mark an anniversary or milestone
Just like the rest of the team, managers celebrate a work anniversary each year. Whether it’s their one-year (yay!) or 30-year (bigger yay!), it’s important for an organization to recognize these milestones in a timely manner. Appropriate recognition can be especially crucial in the early years, as up to 40% of managers with less than two years of managerial experience say they are looking for new job opportunities.
Toast a work anniversary by filling a Koozie® basket with a bottle of the honoree’s favorite beverage, a set of wine glasses and a wine opener. Or maybe a water bottle, golf ball set and golf towel is a better fit. The options for themed baskets are as infinite as the possibilities for these workplace stars.
Announce a promotion or role change
According to research, the No. 1 way supervisors want to be recognized is through increased decision-making authority.
Chosen by 30% of managers, autonomy outranked rewards like bonuses, raises and promotions. That means when the time comes to announce an employee has earned a promotion, the right gift bundle won’t be the biggest surprise of the day. It will be the cherry on top of a sweet situation!
If someone is moving up in your organization, stuff a duffel bag full of branded merch so they have a new look to match their new position. A quarter-zip pullover is a versatile accessory while a baseball cap and crewneck sweatshirt are perfect on casual Fridays. Include a business card holder so they can show off that new title. A new desk caddy could also serve as a reminder of the special day for years to come.
Invite them to participate in a conference or training opportunity
Many employees long for opportunities to travel, gain new experiences and learn new skills. Research shows employees who aren’t learning are more likely to consider leaving. In fact, three of the top five factors that drive people to pursue new opportunities reflect a desire to grow and develop new skills.
Provide ample growth opportunities to keep managers happy and fulfilled. When you arrange for an employee to travel for a professional development opportunity, add to the excitement with a travel gift basket. Pack a travel pouch, combination pillow blanket and wireless earbuds into a new laptop backpack. Include a fleece jacket or vest to wear to the event so they can proudly display their place of employment (and your brand).
Celebrate an award, ranking or other achievement
There’s nothing like winning a major award or recognition, especially if it raises the profile of an employee or the organization itself. While being No. 1 on a list or public poll may not be your top priority, it sure feels good when it happens!
Be prepared to celebrate those joyous days by keeping a stock of gift-basket-ready promotional products that can be assembled in an instant. A slingpack makes a great vessel and can hold an embroidered blanket and—if you know in advance—a T-shirt with an imprint recognizing the big news.
If it’s an individual earning the honor, include a travel mug or tumbler imprinted with your branding and also a message or graphic identifying the new owner as an award-winner. Or engrave an executive pen with a related message.
Say thanks just because
Research shows when supervisors feel appreciated, there’s a boost of energy and optimism. Fun, out-of-the-blue surprises can ensure managers feel the love. Listen during conversations and pick up on clues for potential gift ideas. When a manager mentions a child participating in fall sports, give them a gift to keep them comfy on the sidelines. Use a backpack cooler chair as the basket and include a beanie to keep ears warm and get brand visibility.
Don’t forget to add incentives, like extra paid time off, casual dress days and even professional development opportunities, when building a unique corporate gift basket. After all, learning opportunities are a preferred way for 22% of middle managers to be rewarded for their work.
Drop a messenger bag with a new padfolio and registration materials for an upcoming conference on a manager’s desk to make it an especially memorable day. Remember, investing in your employees strengthens your organization and prepares the C-suite’s next generation.
A gesture of appreciation
Strategic deployment of corporate gift basket ideas can make a manager’s day and ensure they feel appreciated for the important work they do. A bundle of swag can boost morale and makes a wonderful complement to a promotion, learning opportunity, or significant milestone or happening. It’s also a smart just-because gift—raising spirits one day, and brand visibility the next.
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