5 Perfect Gifts to Give a Team Member this Christmas

With over a third of our time spent at work, our colleagues often become an essential part of our daily lives. They’re the ones who brighten our days with funny memes, listen to our occasional rants, and help us get through the tough days. This festive season, why not use this time to show appreciation for your team members?

Here are five ways to build stronger connections with your team and support them as the holidays approach.

The gift of time

Time is one of the most valuable resources in the workplace. Help your team by giving them the gift of time—whether that means canceling an unnecessary meeting or lightening their workload.

How to Support Your Team:

• Audit your remaining meetings before the holidays.
• Ask yourself, “If I could only hold a few meetings, which ones would truly matter?” Cancel one that’s less critical to give your team extra breathing room.

This small gesture not only boosts morale but also reinforces the idea that their time is respected.

The gift of choice

If you have delegated work to members of your team, you might consider the gift of choice this Christmas. 

Giving people more choice around how and when they complete work can significantly reduce stress and increase their sense of control. If you’ve delegated tasks to a colleague, revisit the deadlines and priorities.

Team Building Tip:

• If a task can wait until the new year, let them decide whether to defer it or complete it now.
• Giving them the flexibility to manage their workload acknowledges their autonomy and shows that you’re invested in their well-being.

This is a practical way to build trust and create a culture where everyone feels supported.

The gift of help

One of the main reasons people don’t delegate work to their colleagues is that they believe no one else will be interested in doing that task. That’s not always the case.

It feels good to help the people we work with, especially if we have more free time in the workday than they do. And offering help to an overwhelmed teammate can make a huge difference in their day.

Ideas for Supporting Your Team:

• Assist with a small administrative task.
• Review their work or provide input on a project.
• Help troubleshoot an issue they’re facing.

Even small contributions can strengthen relationships and remind your team that they’re not alone, especially during the busy holiday season.

The gift of appreciation

We are often so busy doing our work that we forget to stop and acknowledge what we have achieved. This is the perfect time of year to show your fellow team members that you are grateful for their support.

How to Show Appreciation:

• Write a thoughtful email highlighting five specific ways your colleague has supported you this year.
• Share how their efforts have positively impacted the team or your work.

Highlighting your team member’s contributions reinforces a positive environment and encourages others to pay it forward, creating a ripple effect of recognition.

The gift of company

The holiday season can be joyful for some and challenging for others. Supporting your team goes beyond work—it’s about connecting on a personal level.

How to Build Connection:

• Schedule a walking meeting or invite a teammate for coffee.
• Take time to check in and listen to their thoughts or challenges.
  

These are just some ways to stay connected and check in on a personal level with the people who matter most to you at work, reminding them that they’re part of a supportive team.

As you reflect on how to support your team this festive season, remember that small acts of kindness can have a big impact. Whether it’s freeing up time, showing appreciation, or simply being present, these gestures create a more connected and collaborative team environment.

So, grab your Santa hat, make your list, and let these ideas guide you in spreading joy and kindness this holiday season. 

Stay well,
Niamh