The days are shorter, there’s a chill in the air and ads for presents, and the latest toy fads can’t be ignored: we’re getting close to the holidays!
At the end of another stressful year, you might want to show your employees a gesture of thanks and gratitude for their hard work and dedication during trying times. A lot has been asked of them, and you can do so much to boost morale by saying thank you.
But how? What’s the best way to thank your team? And can you do it without breaking the bank?
Here are a few ways to show your employees you appreciate them this year.
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Share a meal or snacks.
It doesn’t need to be a swanky spread — unless you want it to be! — but offer your employees a lunch or dinner together, or a coffee or dessert bar if that makes more sense. It’s a nice treat that gives your employees a chance to sit together and enjoy something special, and it’s a little break in the routine to lift their spirits. Plus, who doesn’t like free food? You could even get their thoughts on what kind of food to have by putting up a poll or taking a vote.
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Be flexible.
If possible, let your employees adjust their schedules a little in the weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve. There’s a lot to do in those frantic final weeks of the year, between shopping, visiting friends and family, getting the house ready for the holidays, and making sure everything is ready; the ability to have a little more time during the day at home or to take care of things that need to be done for their family can alleviate stress. Let your employees work four 10-hour days, for example, to have an extra day off, or let them come in later or leave earlier to run errands. Make sure to give everyone who wants it a chance to enjoy this benefit so the assistance, and the extra work, is fairly distributed.
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Make your workplace festive.
There are ways to boost some holiday spirit beyond singing carols! Encourage a gingerbread house-making competition or have a decorating contest. Select a day for a cookie swap or a cookie frosting contest. And maybe throw in a carol or two and see who sings the loudest.
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Remind them of PTO options.
Some employees might save their PTO for the end of the year. That’s great! Just be clear with everyone about your expectations and work needs at this time so their colleagues aren’t shorthanded or an entire team is off at the same time. Talk about this in advance and encourage people to take the time they’ve earned; just try to schedule it ahead of time, so people aren’t caught off guard.
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Say thank you.
Sometimes, just saying the words can go a long way toward making people feel seen and recognized. Whether through individual messages or a statement released to the whole company, tell your employees that you’re glad to have them on your team and working together for a shared goal. Recognize those who have gone above and beyond in the past year or so. Encourage them to honor and recognize their coworkers who have contributed to the company’s success as well — people want to cheer on their friends! It’s the smallest gesture, but it can mean so much. People who feel their work is recognized are more likely to stay where they are instead of looking for greener pastures.
The holidays can be a stressful time, but it’s also the best time to take a little break and have some fun. Your employees will appreciate it!
If you’re looking for new employees to join your team, call Debbie’s Staffing. We have excellent candidates looking to get to work for a good company like yours and are ready to start right away. Call Debbie’s Staffing, and let’s get to work!
