More Than 2 In 5 Employees Say Holiday Gifting At Work Causes Financial Stress

Holiday gift exchanges at work are putting pressure on employees' budgets, according to Zety's Workplace Holiday Gifting Report, based on a survey of 1,040 U.S. workers. Forty-three percent say workplace gifting expectations cause financial stress, while 45% have felt obligated to buy gifts for coworkers and 35% for managers. More than half (53%) don't expect to receive a holiday gift from their employer. Cash bonuses top employees' wish lists at 77%, although only 34% typically receive them, while 39% prefer gift cards and 24% would like additional paid time off.

With workplace gifting adding to holiday expenses, gift card retailers, restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, specialty gift stores, florists, office supply retailers and corporate gifting companies can appeal to businesses and employees looking for affordable, thoughtful options. Sellers can encourage these advertisers to promote group gifting packages, reasonably priced gifts, employee appreciation programs and convenient gift cards that make workplace celebrations easier to manage.