The holiday season brings more than just festive lights, peppermint-flavored everything, and last-minute shopping—it’s also a time for people to reflect on what they truly want. For many employees, their workplace wish lists go beyond the standard gift cards or holiday parties. In 2024, the holiday wish list of a modern employee to “Santa” is likely packed with requests for perks and benefits that can help them feel valued, balanced, and supported.
With “Employees’ Wish List” as the main theme, we’ll explore what employees today wish for in terms of perks and benefits, comparing these desires across generations and offering practical advice for HR departments on how to fulfill these wishes. So, if you’re in HR or a corporate leadership role, take note—this may be the best gift you can give your team this season.
What’s on the Employees' Wish List?
While holiday bonuses and gift baskets are always appreciated, today’s workforce is asking for benefits that go a bit deeper. Here are some of the top “wish list” items employees have been hoping to find in their stockings this year:
1. Flexible Work Arrangements
Remote work, hybrid schedules, and the freedom to choose when and where they work have skyrocketed to the top of employees’ lists. Flexibility is no longer just a perk but an expectation, especially post-pandemic. According to a report by FlexJobs, nearly 70% of employees are willing to quit their jobs if flexible work isn’t offered.
2. Mental Health and Wellness Support
Mental health resources—ranging from therapy support to paid mental health days—are increasingly essential to employees across all generations. Gallup found that 76% of workers experience burnout at least once, and wellness programs are now seen as crucial to reducing stress, rather than just nice-to-have extras.
3. Learning and Development Opportunities
Another high-ranking request is for continuous learning and career growth. Gen Z and Millennials, in particular, prioritize professional development. This happens due to the fact that different fields are becoming more evolved and more niche, for example, a person with a Marketing major now can be specialized in more niche ramifications like Social Media Marketing, SEO, Market Research and many more. This demand for personal development happens especially during the end of the year, as employees reflect on their goals for the upcoming year.
4. Financial Wellness Programs
As inflation and economic uncertainty continue to impact personal finances, employees are looking to their employers for financial support. This can include anything from budgeting workshops to retirement planning. Financial wellness programs help workers feel more secure and supported in managing their personal finances, a gift that extends well beyond the holiday season.
A Generational Employees Wish List
While the overall theme of work-life balance, mental health, and financial security unites employees, the specifics of these requests vary across generations. Here’s a closer look at what’s topping the employees’ christmas list for different age groups.
Practical Tips for HR to Spread Holiday Cheer
Of course, every company has budget limitations, but there are plenty of creative ways to fulfill employees’ wishes without overspending:
Host a “Wish List” Survey
A holiday survey can provide direct insight into what perks are most meaningful to your employees. Not only does this allow HR to prioritize offerings, but it also gives employees a chance to feel heard—a gift in itself.
Encourage Peer Recognition Programs
Creating a culture of gratitude and recognition can be a simple and budget-friendly way to boost morale. Peer recognition programs allow employees to give “shout-outs” to one another, fostering camaraderie and appreciation.
Holiday-Themed Team-Building Activities
Organizing holiday-themed activities—like Secret Santa gift exchanges, virtual holiday parties, or team-building events—can bring a festive spirit to the workplace. Remember, employees value experiences and connection as much as tangible perks.
As we see, the items on employees’ wish lists are not just about short-term perks; they reflect a desire for ongoing support, growth, and balance in the workplace. When companies invest in understanding and meeting these needs, they foster a culture of loyalty, engagement, and productivity that lasts well beyond the holiday season.
This holiday season, your team may not be asking for physical gifts, but their requests for flexible schedules, mental health resources, and growth opportunities could be the best kind of “present” you give them. After all, when employees feel appreciated and supported, they’re more likely to be motivated, productive, and happy at work—a gift that truly keeps on giving.
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