Employees want a bonus, not a Christmas party

A Christmas party often seems like the perfect way to wrap up the year and build engagement before heading into the New Year - but your staff might not really care.

They'd rather you gave them money than organise a company Christmas bash.

Almost two thirds of companies (63%) in the US said they plan to throw a holiday party this year, up 4% from last year. However, only 40% of employees actually plan to attend.

An overwhelming majority (96%) said they would prefer receiving a holiday bonus over a company party, the survey by CareerBuilder found.

For some, the bonus wish may come true, as nearly nearly half of employers (47%) plan to front up the cash, with 11% even promising to top last year's amount.

However, your office won't be entirely without some Christmas joy, as two in five employers intend to give gifts to staff, as well as making charitable donations (42%).

Employees are also looking to buy gifts, with one in five planning to shop for their co-workers, as well as for their boss. The majority (76%) expect to spend US$25 or less.

ALSO READ: 5 presents NOT to give your colleagues this Christmas

On the subject of gifts, the survey uncovered some cases of employees getting "a little more creative with their definition of the word 'gift'."

While many workers stick to ornaments, candy and gift baskets, others take a more unusual route. Sample this list of the most unusual presents received:

•  A chess piece (just one piece, not a set).
• A fire extinguisher.
• A voucher for a free lawn game of the co-worker's own invention.
• A turquoise leather vest.
• A Ziploc bag with coffee (enough to make one pot).
• A ‘gun of the day’ calendar.
• A bag of chips.
• A Christmas ornament with the co-worker’s and spouse's photos on it.

Image: Shutterstock