Employees are the lifeblood of every company. They work hard day in and day out to make sure the business thrives.
That is why a thoughtful gift is essential to show appreciation and gratitude for their efforts.
While physical gifts are always nice, they may not always be the most realistic option to send to someone.
Virtual gifts are items that can be sent and received electronically, such as gift cards, e-books, or memberships to online services. They can be sent to anyone, anywhere in the world with just a few clicks. Plus, they’re often more personal and unique than traditional presents. According to Forbes,
“Around 80% of corporate gift buyers stated gifts have improved relationships with clients and employees.”
Why give virtual gifts to employees?
Virtual gifts show your employees that you appreciate their hard work, even when they’re not in the office.
These rewards can also be used as a way to recognize team members for meeting goals or reaching milestones. They are there to help them stay connected with team members and give them something to look forward to and enjoy, which can keep employees motivated throughout the work week.
So, what are the best digital gifts for employees who work from home?
We have compiled a list of the top online gift ideas for your staff members, virtual team, and coworkers which will brighten their day and make them feel valued.
Without further ado, let’s dive in!
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Digital Gift Cards
Digital gift cards are one of the most popular virtual gifts for employees. They’re hassle-free, easy to send, and can be used to purchase just about anything the recipient wants or needs. Plus, they offer the convenience of not having to worry about shipping or expiration dates.
🔥 Our Top Picks:
1. Buy Them Lunch with Hoppier
- Why we like it: You can order customized company credit cards to send out to all of your employees with Hoppier. Their lunch gift card program makes it easy to set up your order, distribute cards to your staff, and receive any left-over funds to put back into your budget!
2. Send Recognition Points!
- Why we like it: With Bonusly‘s monthly allowance, you can give your team the kudos they need to stay motivated. They can redeem their earnings for great rewards, from digital gift cards to wellness programs.
3. Amazon Wishlist
- Why we like it: If you’re looking for a gift that’s guaranteed to please, an Amazon Wishlist gift card is a perfect choice. Your employees can browse thousands of items and choose exactly what they want via Motivosity’s corporate rewards software.
4. They Choose Gift Cards
- Why we like it: They Choose Gift Cards are the perfect gift for anyone who’s hard to shop for. With this gift card, your recipient will be able to choose their own gift from their preferred store. Whether they’re looking for a new outfit a coffee mug, or a high-quality gadget, they’ll be able to find it with this gift card.
5. Target Gift Cards
- Why we like it: A digital gift allowing you to spend cold hard cash at Target can be an excellent fit for those looking for a one-stop shop. Target Gift Cards can be used online, making it easy for the recipient to find what they’re looking for.
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6. Care Cards
- Why we like it: Whether you’re trying to thank an employee or a coworker for their help, congratulate them on a job well done, or wish them a happy birthday—a virtual group card will bring a bright spot to any day. The easy-to-use platform makes it effortless for you to personalize your cards for various occasions and share them with your team in just seconds.
Virtual Experience Gifts
Experiential gifts are a great way to show employee recognition and an excellent way to promote virtual team building. They can be used to treat your staff to a special experience, such as a day at the spa, tickets to a concert, or a weekend getaway. Virtual experience gifts show your employees that you care about their well-being by offering world-class trips, classes, and activities.
🔥 Our Top Picks:
1. Gift a Mental Health Day
- Why we like it: Prioritizing your team members’ mental well-being and self-care is essential. Employee rewards platforms can offer a variety of experiential gifts that are perfect for employees who could use a little R&R.
2. 80’s Game
- Why we like it: This nostalgic game is perfect for team building or a virtual happy hour. Trust us, your employees have a blast playing this game and reliving some of your favorite memories from the 80s.
3. Virtual Wine Tasting
- Why we like it: If your employees are looking to expand their wine horizons, there’s no better way to do it than with a wine tasting event. With artisan wines delivered straight to their doorsteps, your work-from-home team members and colleagues can explore new varietals and flavor profiles without ever having to leave the comfort of their own homes.
4. Helicopter Tour
- Why we like it: Explore the Bucketlist catalog to find all types of experiential gifts for employees that range from aerial activities like hot air ballooning and helicopter tours to experiences a bit closer to the ground.
Memberships & Subscription Digital Gifts
Memberships and subscriptions make great virtual gifts for coworkers in a modern workplace. They’re often less expensive than traditional presents and can be enjoyed for months or even years to come. Plus, they offer the convenience of not having to worry about shipping or expiration dates.
🔥 Our Top Picks:
1. Snack Boxes
- Why we like it: Bunny James offers a variety of customizable subscription gift boxes, so you can find the perfect one for your employees. With delicious and healthy snacks, office supplies and other swag included, this remote employee gift will make the recipient’s smile and their home office less lonely.
2. Online Fitness Class Memberships
- Why we like it: With online fitness class memberships, your employees can stay active and healthy, even when they’re not in the office. There are a variety of membership options available, so you can find one that fits your budget. You can even set up a recognition platform to let employees select their favorite fitness class to try!
3. Headspace (Meditation & Stress Management)
- Why we like it: Headspace is the perfect gift for those hardworking employees who need a break from everyday life. Recipients will get access to an incredible library, full of meditations designed to help with everything from stress and anxiety to focus and productivity during long days in the office. They’ll also be able to find music tailored to their specific needs – whether they want to power through their workday or just relax a little bit before bedtime. You can try sending out a 3-month gift membership to see if your employee loves it!
4. Audiobook Subscription
- Why we like it: Audiobooks help employees relax and unwind, and with an audiobook subscription, your employees can choose from thousands of titles. Many subscriptions offer a free trial period, so your employees can try it out before committing to a long-term membership.
5. Entertainment Service Subscription (Netflix, Hulu…)
- Why we like it: Entertainment service subscriptions make it easy for your employees to stay entertained, without having to leave the house. Plus, with so many options available, you can find one that fits your budget.
6. Language lessons with Babbel
- Why we like it: Babbel’s language lessons are an exceptional virtual gift for employees, providing a thoughtful and enriching experience that surpasses traditional corporate gifts. These lessons are designed for practical, real-world use, empowering employees to develop language skills to enhance personal growth and unlock professional opportunities in our increasingly globalized workplace. With the flexibility of Babbel’s online platform, employees can learn at their own pace and convenience, fitting the lessons into their busy schedules. By offering language lessons, companies demonstrate their commitment to investing in their employees’ development, fostering a vibrant culture of continuous learning and global awareness.
7. inKind Pass
- Why we like it: Experience the ultimate way to elevate your dining. With inKind Pass from Goody, embark on a journey to discover hand-picked restaurants known for their culinary excellence. Through this virtual gift for employees, gain access to coveted, hard-to-get tables, indulge in VIP treatment with personalized service and exclusive perks, and earn valuable rewards on every dollar you spend.
Custom Care Packages
Custom care packages show your employees that you care via a tangible gift with a virtual component. You can include items that are specific to their interests, or choose from a variety of pre-made options. With custom care packages you can be sure that your employees will appreciate the thought and effort that went into their gift.
🔥 Our Top Picks:
1. Employee Care Package
- Why we like it: An employee care package is the kind of virtual gift for teams that works for any part of the year! With a care package loaded with premium gifts, sweet treats, and maybe even a signed card from their colleagues, your coworkers will truly feel appreciated. With a variety of package options, you can find one that fits your needs. Nowadays, these corporate gifting companies provide a seamless experience that makes it easy and affordable to send a gift,
2. Office Gift Box
- Why we like it: Create a custom care package with just a few clicks of your mouse. They offer a variety of packages, so you can find one that fits your needs. Whether it’s a Christmas gift, an employee birthday gift, or simply want employee appreciation gift, this corporate gift basket will be a winner and perfect for celebrating employee milestones!
3. Swag Box
- Why we like it: Swag.com is a leading apparel and product vendor that specializes in sending branded swag to organizations. From t-shirts, water bottles, and Bluetooth speakers, to desk organizers for the home office, they offer a variety of products, so you can find the perfect item for your employees. This is also an excellent option if you’re also looking for personalized gifts for colleagues and coworkers.
4. Company Swag Pack
- Why we like it: A company swag pack from a service like Stadium is an excellent option for those looking for a custom care package. They offer a variety of packages, so you can find one that fits your needs. Swag packs provide free shipping on all orders, making it easy and affordable to send a gift that will be appreciated.
People Also Ask These Questions About Virtual Gifts for Employees
Q: What are the benefits of virtual gifts for employees?
- A: There are many benefits of giving employees virtual gifts. First, it can help strengthen the bond between employer and employee. Virtual gifts show that you care about your employees and appreciate their hard work. Second, virtual gifts can be used as a reward or incentive for employees who go above and beyond their job duties. This encourages them to continue putting in extra effort, which benefits the company as a whole. Finally, virtual gifts help you to say “thank you” for a job well done. They show that you value your employees’ contributions and want to show your appreciation tangibly.
Q: What are some good virtual gifts for employees?
- A: Some good virtual gifts for employees include gift cards, e-books, and online courses. These are all great strategies to show your appreciation and support their professional development. Additionally, you can also offer small tokens of recognition like digital certificates or badges. Whatever you decide on, make sure it’s something that will be meaningful and appreciated by your staff.
Q: How much does a digital gift for employees cost?
- A: A digital gift for employees can cost as little or as much as you want it to. It all depends on what the gift is and how much thought you put into it. A heartfelt e-card with a personal message can be free, or you could sign them up for a paid subscription to their favorite online service. It all comes down to what will make your coworkers feel valued.
Q: Can I order virtual gifts for employees in bulk?
- A: Yes, you can order virtual gifts for employees in bulk. There are a few different ways to go about this: One option is to find a company that specializes in sending e-cards or digital gifts. They will likely have a range of options that you can choose from and will be able to handle the logistics of sending out the gifts to your employees. Another option is to purchase gift cards from popular retailers or restaurants that your employees would enjoy. You can then distribute these electronically via email or an online system like Slack.
Q: What are some unique virtual gift ideas?
- A: The virtual gifts in this list are designed to offer a new experience to your recipient that they would not buy for themselves. Easy to send directly to your giftee — these virtual gift ideas can center around learning, sports, hobbies, cooking, traveling, and many more.
