I'm wrestling with that question right now. I only have one employee and I'm trying to figure out what to do. The first 3/4 of the year was flat but these past few months have been pretty good. The money that is coming in now is helping to pay back Paul for the earlier in the year borrowing and we are heading into what is typically a slow season. I was thinking about a half day, nice lunch and a hundred or two dollars.
On the one hand I feel that I really need to do what I can to get above water again and pinch pennies. On the other hand I have to ask myself if that extra hundred dollars is really going to be the difference between make and break.
I never expected any bonus in all my years. I was always happy to just have a job as that meant I could pay my bills and provide for my family.
A bonus is just that...extra. I always recieved bonus's and truely appreaciated them, no matter how large or small. (They were never anything like what is mentioned earlier....usually $100-$500 max.)
I don't know if you are set up for paid holidays, vacation, etc....or not. If you are and Christmas Eve is not part of them...I think your 1st thought, offering is a great thing.
The funds equate to what..a days pay maybe? Would that break the bank for the company? Probably not. But it may mean a whole lot to your employee and their family budget this time of year, along with being home a bit earlier.
Only you know your employee and what he is like. He may not care either way or it may mean the world to him at this time.
Good Luck and Happy Holidays to you and your family!!