How to Communicate the Christmas Gift to Employees
Ready-to-use templates: the email announcing the Christmas gift, the reminder for those who haven't chosen, and the mistakes that turn a good gesture into a complaint.
Published on July 30, 2026
A Good Gift Poorly Communicated Becomes a Problem
When the gift changes format — from the usual hamper to a budget each person chooses — communication matters as much as the gift itself. If the email sounds like a formality, employees may assume something has been cut; if it clearly explains the reason, it's seen as an improvement.
Three rules: state the gift's value clearly, make it absolutely clear what each person needs to do, and set a deadline. Below are two templates you can copy as they are.
Template 1 — Campaign Announcement
Subject: Your Christmas Gift: This Year You Choose
Hi [name],
This year, we want your Christmas gift to truly be yours. Instead of the usual hamper, you have a budget of [amount] to choose whatever you like from over 1,000 products and experiences: gourmet, technology, home, wellness, or a getaway.
Visit [link], choose what you fancy, and indicate where you'd like it delivered — at home or the office. It will take you five minutes.
You have until [date] to make your choice. If you don't do it in time, we can't guarantee delivery before Christmas.
Merry Christmas!
[signature]
Tip: if your company covers the Spanish income tax withholding, mention it in a line («the amount is net for you»). This avoids 100% of payroll questions.
Template 2 — Reminder for Those Who Haven't Chosen
Subject: You Have [X] Days Left to Choose Your Christmas Gift
Hi [name],
We see you haven't chosen your Christmas gift yet, and we don't want you to miss out. You have [amount] waiting for you at [link], and the deadline is [date].
If you have any questions about the order, contact support directly from the page: they'll respond, no need to go through HR.
Best regards,
[signature]
In our campaigns, reminders are automatically sent to those who haven't chosen, so this email is usually unnecessary.
Common Mistakes
- Not stating the amount: breeds distrust and comparisons among colleagues.
- Announcing it without a deadline: half the staff will leave it until December.
- Presenting the change as a cutback instead of an improvement in choice.
- Routing order queries through HR when they could go directly to support.
Frequently asked questions
When should the announcement be sent?
As soon as the campaign is ready, usually in October or early November, allowing a two to three-week window for choosing.
Should you mention that the gift is taxable?
No need to go into detail, but a line helps if the company covers the Spanish tax withholding. It's a benefit in kind and will appear on the payslip.
Do you send the reminders?
Yes, the campaign sends automatic reminders to those who haven't chosen, and you can see in real-time who has participated from the dashboard.