Getting any work-related achievement is exciting, but receiving a work promotion can be life-changing. Moving up within the HR sphere means more responsibility, higher pay, and heightened respect from peers, and that kind of success should be congratulated. The following guide will contain plenty of ideas that are appropriate for celebrating a new promotion.
Give Flowers
Flowers are the perfect gift for any occasion because they’re meaningful, vibrant, and represent growth. When choosing from a list of congratulation flowers, ensure you don’t accidentally pick ones that symbolize romantic love, like a red rose. Daffodils, orchids, daisies, tulips, carnations, and lilies make for the ultimate congratulation bouquet for men and women.
A “First Time Management” Book
Most HR reps will take on a larger team with more responsibility as they climb the company ladder, but all that weight on your shoulders can be intimidating, even with proper training. The following book suggestions can provide some insight on how to lead a team.
- Drive, by Daniel H. Pink
- The One Thing You Need to Know, by Marcus Buckingham
- Act Like a Leader, Think Like a Leader, by Herminia Ibarra
- How to Win Friends and Influence People, by Dale Carnegie
- Mindset, by Carol Dweck
Ask if they prefer a kindle book or paperback to ensure they receive the right gift.
Purchase a Bottle of Wine
Make your newly promoted employee feel special by buying them the finest bottle of wine available. Jobs aren’t easy to find nowadays and are even more difficult to maintain, so if someone is given the opportunity to shine, ensure you buy them this party staple. Your employee will love that they can enjoy some alcohol with their friends when celebrating at home.
Write a Well-Thought Out Note
Most employees want to hear a congratulatory message from their managers or co-workers, so even if you plan on buying a gift, be sure to add a note as well. While writing the letter, consider your relationship with the recipient because you may want to come across as professional rather than casual. Give praise and explain why you’re congratulating them in a few sentences.
Use this example to help you focus on an authentic message:
“Although promotions can be a challenging experience, I know you can accomplish these new tasks with ease. I look forward to the positive impact you’ll have on the company.”
Edit your message before sending it and stay brief – your employees are busy people!
Take Them Out for Lunch
After congratulating your employee on their promotion, suggest taking them out for lunch. Make sure it’s your treat, or you could come across as cheap or ungrateful. If your newly promoted employee can’t spare the time at that moment, schedule a lunch outing on another day, offer to pick up lunch yourself, or cater food for them specifically to make them feel special.
Order in a Gift Basket
Several worthwhile gift baskets exist that aren’t limited to cheese, chocolate, or wine. Some of the most incredible gift boxes are personalized for recipients or bake/cook food to order. Take a look at these unique gift baskets that just about anyone will enjoy:
- Zabar’s Quintessential Zabar’s Basket: New York comfort foods.
- Stonewall Kitchen Taste of New England Gift Basket: Jams, dry mixes, condiments.
- Bokksu Japanese Snack Box: Japanese snacks
- L.A. Burdick Critters Collection: Chocolate molded into penguins, pigs, and mice.
- Fuego Box Tame to Insane Hot Sauce Box: Hot sauces.
To look for a specific gift basket, search “Gift Basket + Hobby/Present” on Google.
Buy Them a Watch
A nice watch made of genuine leather, gold, or other precious metals is the perfect gift for a newly promoted employee. Smartwatches will go over well for most employees because they’re compatible with smartphones and computers. You could also purchase a Fitbit, as they’re around the price of a typical watch if your employee is fond of working out.