Will your employees receive gifts this season? Do they expect to?

A recent study found a disconnect between what workers think they’ll get, and what they’re likely to receive.

If someone expects to receive a gift and it doesn’t materialize, there’s a risk they’ll become resentful and disgruntled, so it’s worth making sure everyone’s on the same page.

Luckily for Canadian employers, it seems most people’s expectations align with reality – and some may even be pleasantly surprised. A recent survey from Randstad found that 41% of Canadian workers expect to get a gift from their employer, and 45% of employees normally receive gifts so as long as the two groups line up few people will be disappointed.

Employers in Argentina, Chile, Hong Kong and Malaysia are not so lucky – those countries have a big disconnect between the number of employees who usually receive gifts (47% vs 65%) and the number who expect to receive them this year (71% vs 88%)

The global consensus is slightly higher than Canada’s, as 48% of respondents from around the world reported receiving a Christmas gift or gift voucher from their employer at the end of the year and (NO FIGURE CITED) % expect to receive a gift this year.

Hanna Vineberg, Vice-President Central Ontario, Randstad Canada, says tokens of an organization's appreciation, even small ones, can have a big impact on employee morale and productivity.

"This data shows a huge opportunity for employers to foster a loyal environment and maintain a productive workforce. Employees enjoy holiday rewards and feel even more appreciated and motivated when they receive them," Vineberg said. "This is positive news for employers still struggling in the tough economy, because it reveals simple ways that they can keep employees loyal and thereby maintain a productive and competitive business.”