It might feel difficult to know what to say or do when an employee is grieving the loss of a family member or friend. However, you will likely be eager to show how much you and the rest of the team care and make them feel more supported during this difficult time.
A thoughtful gesture is a great way to express your sincere sorrow; however, you must aim to strike a balance between personal and professional. If you’re looking for suitable corporate sympathy gifts that will feel comforting, read the following advice on what to send an employee who is grieving.
Plant a Tree for Their Loved One
Many businesses choose to plant a tree in memory of an employee’s late loved one. It is a touching way to show how much the company cares and can make a team member feel supported and valued. It could feel comforting to the employee, as their family member’s or friend’s legacy will live on in a beautiful U.S. national forest in need of trees.
Make a Charitable Donation
A charitable donation in their loved one’s name could be a heartfelt way to express the business’s sorrow. Choosing a charity connected to the employee’s late family member will show that you listen and could comfort the employee and their family. You could also encourage the rest of your team to donate to the cause, and the business could match all employee contributions.
Send a Sincere Sympathy Card
Sending a sympathy card will show an employee that you’re thinking of them and their family during this emotional time. Write a sincere yet brief condolence message that makes the employee feel supported, such as offering specific ways to help. It is a small and simple way to offer condolences and may make a team member’s return to work feel a little easier.
Send a Restaurant or Meal Delivery Gift Card
Cooking is the last thing most people want to do when grieving. Slipping a restaurant or meal delivery gift card into a sympathy card can help make your employee’s life a little easier. It will show you’re thinking of them while encouraging them to eat some food and take a break. If possible, send a gift card for a restaurant or meal delivery service you know they like, or ask one of their close colleagues for a recommendation.
Be Flexible and Patient
Granting bereavement leave without complaint and being flexible with deadlines will mean more to an employee than any gift. It’s a kind act that your team member won’t forget, as they’re bound to appreciate your patience, flexibility, and understanding.
Don’t forget to routinely check in with them during bereavement and following their return. It’s a quick and compassionate way to learn how they’re feeling and whether there is anything the business can do to help. If you feel it is appropriate, jot down significant dates on the calendar, such as the anniversary of their loved one’s death, as they might need more time and patience during these periods.