I know this is one of many hot topics around here so I want to get as much feedback as possible. Long and short is that I lead a cross-functional team that has gone above and beyond (both in product and hours) to fulfill demands from the higher ups. I want to recognize their efforts and thank them for it, but none of them report to me and I'm a junior level manager in a large, bureaucratic org – I have no power to influence things like days off or bonus pay.
I did get approval to do some kind of “recognition gift” worth approx $20pp, but was told it can't be on alcohol so my initial idea for a round of beers is gone. Is there anything I can do that doesn't come off as condescending? Should I just spend my own money and take them out anyways?
What's your take on this?