If you're like us, this month is the busiest time of the year. Between work, family, and friends, it can feel like there's never enough time to get everything done. With so much to do in such a short amount of time, sometimes it's easier to put aside any idea of giving a thoughtful gift this holiday season. That's why we’ve put together an official list of creative ways to use holiday gift cards in the office!

Five Ways to Use Gift Cards for the Holidays

First, Why Gift Cards?

They’re the most versatile gift that ANYONE can use and are a great way to give a gift without having to worry about size, color, or style. They're easy to buy and send, so you don't have to worry about what the recipient might like. This will save them money while also giving them freedom over their own choices, rather than just giving them cash. You can make it even more personal by adding a note that includes some suggestions for things they might like from that store or even some of your own photos!

#1 Hide them Around the Office!

Using gift cards to create a festive work environment can be a fun and exciting way to boost employee morale and spread holiday cheer. By hiding gift cards around the office, you can create a thrilling treasure hunt for your employees. Not only does this add an element of surprise and excitement to the workplace, but it also encourages teamwork and camaraderie as colleagues work together to search for the hidden treasures. This activity promotes a positive atmosphere, fosters employee happiness, and creates a sense of appreciation.

#2 Use them as Game Prizes

There are many fun and creative games and activities that can be played to promote holiday cheer and bring colleagues together. For example, a holiday version of charades can be played where participants guess holiday-themed words and phrases. Another game could be holiday bingo, where players use holiday items instead of numbers on their bingo cards. Want to go a step further? Create your own trivia game using your work history and management! By incorporating gift cards as prizes for these games and activities, you can add an extra incentive for employees to participate and make the games even more exciting.

#3 Mystery Gift Cards

Gift cards come in all shapes and sizes and can be used for a unique twist on the traditional games in the office. Each participant receives a gift card without knowing its value, adding an element of surprise and anticipation to the exchange. Throughout the day, employees can engage in friendly conversations and discussions, trying to guess the worth of their gift cards. This playful guessing game can create a sense of excitement and camaraderie as colleagues’ bond over their curious uncertainty. At the end of the day, the true value of the gift cards can be revealed, leading to further excitement and perhaps even some laughter. This mystery gift card game adds a fun twist to the tradition and helps create a festive atmosphere to strengthen relationships among team members.

#4 Buy Gift Cards from Small Business or Surprise Them with Gift Cards!

It's no secret that we're all trying to save money these days. With the economy still struggling, many of us are looking for ways to cut costs without cutting corners on quality or service. Buying from a local business or another small business in your area is a great way to support local businesses and give gifts that are unique and personal. In fact, according to Small Business Administration data:

• Small businesses generate 65% more jobs per employee than large corporations.
• They pay higher wages than large corporations.
• They pay 45% more taxes per employee than large corporations.

If you want to treat your favorite local business to something special, surprise them with a gift card they could use! This special act of kindness goes a long way during the holiday season, and you’re sure to make their day.

#5 Use them to Incentivize Festive Spirit

One way to do this is by incentivizing holiday cheer and behaviors. For example, you can award gift cards to employees who wear holiday sweaters or attire, spreading joy and adding a visual element of festivity to the office. To further encourage a festive atmosphere, you can organize a holiday decorating contest and reward the most creative and spirited decorations with gift cards. Additionally, you can create a "holiday cheer" challenge and give gift cards to employees who consistently demonstrate positive and supportive behavior towards their colleagues. These initiatives not only foster a sense of togetherness and excitement but also show appreciation for employees' participation in the festive celebrations.

Happy Holidays!

Don't let the stress of the holidays get you down. By following this guide, you can use gift cards as a tool to promote holiday cheer throughout our entire office! Connect with us today to get started on your next celebration at bit.ly/RPGcontact.