How to Host a Fun and Inclusive Secret Santa at Work

Secret Santa can be a wonderful way to spread festive cheer in the workplace, but making it enjoyable and inclusive requires thoughtful planning. Inclusive activities in the workplace have been shown to boost team morale and employee satisfaction (Smith et al., 2020). Here’s a step-by-step guide to organising a Secret Santa that everyone can enjoy.

Set Clear Rules and a Fair Budget

Start by establishing simple, clear guidelines for the event. Set a reasonable budget for gifts that is affordable for all participants. Research suggests that clear financial boundaries can help reduce anxiety and encourage participation (Johnson, 2021). Consider gathering input from your team to ensure the chosen budget accommodates different financial situations.

Know Your Participants

Create a list of participants and their preferences. A quick survey or a team discussion can help you collect useful details about their hobbies, likes, or wishlist items. Research highlights that personalised gifts strengthen emotional connections among colleagues (Lee & Kim, 2019).

Choose the Right Time

Decide when and where gifts will be exchanged—whether it’s during a team lunch, a festive party, or a designated meeting. This planning builds anticipation and excitement.

Add a Creative Theme

Introduce a theme to make the experience even more engaging. Themes like “handmade gifts,” “local treasures,” or even “gifts under the letter B” can add a fun twist and inspire creativity. Themes also help streamline gift selection for those who might feel overwhelmed.

Encourage Inclusivity

Ensure everyone feels comfortable participating. For those hesitant about traditional gift-giving, offer alternatives like writing a heartfelt note or sharing a fun memory instead of a physical gift. This fosters a sense of community and ensures everyone can engage in the festive spirit.

Creative Gift Ideas for Every Budget

Finding the right Secret Santa gift doesn’t have to be challenging. Here are ideas to suit different budgets:

On a Budget:

• Handmade gifts, like baked goods, a knitted scarf, or a personalised card, can be heartfelt and meaningful. Adding a small personal touch, such as a handwritten recipe or note, elevates the sentiment.

Mid-Range Options:

• Practical yet thoughtful gifts like stylish desk organisers, quirky coffee mugs, or specialty teas and coffees are great choices. Pairing items (e.g a mug with gourmet coffee) adds a special touch.

For a Splurge:

• Gadgets, puzzles, or experiences like vouchers for escape rooms or local workshops create lasting memories. Experiential gifts have been shown to bring greater happiness than material ones (Thompson, 2022).

Workplace Secret Santa: Dos and Don’ts

Dos:

• Stick to the set budget to avoid creating discomfort.
• Respect personal preferences and restrictions to ensure inclusivity.
• Choose thoughtful gifts that reflect care and consideration.

Don’ts:

• Avoid overly personal items like fragrances or clothing that may not suit the recipient’s taste.
• Don’t overcomplicate the process—keep it lighthearted and fun!