Beyond the Usual: Unconventional Employee Gifts That Foster a Creative Workplace Culture
In today’s competitive landscape, fostering a vibrant workplace culture is key to keeping employees motivated, creative, and loyal. This is especially important for large companies where creating a sense of community and belonging can be challenging. Beyond the usual gift cards and branded swag, unconventional employee gifts can inspire employees to think creatively, collaborate, and even discover new passions. Here are some original employee gift ideas designed to cultivate a workplace culture of innovation and engagement.
1: The Creative Fuel Kit: Curated Inspiration Boxes
Why it works: A Creative Fuel Kit is more than just a gift box; it’s a curated experience designed to fuel creativity and fresh thinking. Each box could include items like inspirational books, sketchpads, unique puzzles, or even quirky desk toys. This kit not only sparks imagination but also encourages employees to think outside the box.
How to personalize it: Tailor the contents based on team preferences or individual hobbies—include a calligraphy kit for those interested in art, or a mini brainstorming tool kit for problem-solvers. A personalized message explaining how each item can spark creativity adds a thoughtful touch.
2. Inspiration Capsules: A Year-Long Surprise
Why it works: Imagine gifting employees a “Year of Inspiration” capsule—each one contains 12 mini capsules with surprise inspiration prompts or fun challenges for every month of the year. Each month could include a small gift that complements the prompt, such as a creativity journal, a mini puzzle, or a desk plant.
How to keep it exciting: Include motivational quotes, mystery items, or even messages from top executives within each monthly capsule. This builds anticipation and adds a spark of joy each month, keeping employees engaged.
3. Culture-Building Experience Vouchers
Why it works: Culture-Building Experience Vouchers give employees the chance to immerse themselves in unique cultural activities, no matter where they’re located. These vouchers can be customized for experiences like virtual cooking classes that explore international cuisines, guided art sessions, or even interactive language workshops. By participating in these experiences, employees can connect with different cultures while building bonds with their team in an engaging, memorable way.
How to enhance the experience: Encourage employees to use their vouchers during a monthly “Culture Day,” where teams can participate in similar experiences and share highlights afterward. This creates a sense of shared adventure and offers an enjoyable way for employees to bond and learn together.
4. Art for the Office: DIY Art Kits with a Twist
Why it works: A DIY art kit that employees can work on individually or collaboratively adds an artistic element to the office. This can include kits for painting, clay modeling, or collage-making, and the finished artworks can be displayed around the office, creating a gallery of employee-created pieces.
How to make it unique: Host a quarterly “Art Night” where employees can create new pieces for the office. Add a competitive twist by letting employees vote on their favorite artwork, with a small prize for the winning piece.
5. “Unplug & Recharge” Kits for Creative Renewal
Why it works: A well-balanced workplace requires moments to unplug and recharge. Give employees self care kits that include Included are a 96-page book and 50 mindful-moment cards with tips and prompts that encourage mindful breaks from tech and allow them to come back refreshed and inspired.
This kit provides information on how to stop, take stock, and instill actions and habits that nurture ourselves. By attending to our needs, we can improve our mental and physical health, boost resilience and experience better relationships.
How to make it unique: Include a timer for screen-free breaks, along with creative mindfulness exercises like mandala coloring books or tactile puzzles. This gift reminds employees of the importance of balance and well-being in the creative process.
Why These Creative Employee Gifts Matter
The right employee gift can go beyond simple appreciation—it can foster a workplace environment that thrives on creativity, collaboration, and meaningful connections. By investing in these unconventional and engaging employee gift ideas, you not only show appreciation but also inspire employees to think differently, connect with one another, and contribute to a vibrant company culture.
Choose gifts that align with your company’s values and are tailored to the unique needs of your employees. This approach to employee gifting not only builds loyalty but also reinforces a culture that supports innovation and creativity in every aspect.
