Nestled in a one story building surrounded by woods in the back and a asphalt parking lot in the front is the business of Shaffer and Associates. Two family doctors, six nurses, three receptionists, two insurance gurus, and a billing queen. Fourteen dedicated employees whom are blessed to work at the best company in the world when it comes to Christmas gifts for it's employees.

Fruit baskets, gift cards, and bonus checks tucked into generic Christmas cards are the standards in most US companies during the holidays. An easy way to thank an employee for a year of hard work. One company sets the bar a tad higher each year. It is a small company in a small town that should be copied by big companies in big towns. It is a company that we refer to as family. Our family.

Each year, our company shuts the doors the first week of January for the employees to enjoy their Christmas present. That week was chosen years ago, since all the employees children would be back in school and the employees would not miss out on precious time with their children over the holiday break. Significant others are all given a years notice to make arrangements for being a single parent for a glorious week each year.

Two days before Christmas, a Christmas office party luncheon is thrown at the office. A beautiful buffet is served and speeches of thanks are given. The highlight of the luncheon is the famous Christmas announcement that is given to all each year. The announcement is for that years destination for an all expense paid vacation as a token of appreciation for all the hard work and dedication.

The all -inclusive vacation has been the talk of the town for years. We have had adventures in Hawaii, Las Vegas, Cancun, Alaskan cruise, Belize, England, Paris, New York City, Winnipeg, Jamaica, and Japan. My personal favorite was a week in New Zealand.

The number one health issue seen by our doctors are stress related. Stress is the number one contributer to heart, mental health, digestion, and other ailments. Vacations are the best remedies to reduce stress. Our doctors practice what they preach. They vacation. They just happen to take all their employees with them. Each year a stress free vacation is enjoyed by our family at work. A week of exotic foods, new cultures, unique landscapes, and hours of friendships, laughter, and smiles.

My company gives the best Christmas gifts to its employees each year while improving their health. A gift that is enjoyed by the 29 year old to the 76 year old. It could also be why the retention level has remained at 100% for over eleven years. A concept that is rare in most US companies. A gift that keeps on giving and is anticipated by all is the perfect gift. Jealous?

Learn more about this author, Murray L. Musser.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Why my employer is the best at Christmas gift-giving to employees?
We want to hear your view. Write now!