The holiday season is filled with joy, celebration, and relaxation. However, it can also be a time of increased stress and pressure for many businesses and their staff. With vacations, family obligations, and year-end deadlines during flu season, the holidays can take a toll on employees.
As a leader or manager, supporting and caring for your staff during this time of year is crucial. Ensuring your team feels supported and valued during the holiday season can significantly boost morale and productivity into the new year and beyond!
Here are some ways you can offer the support your staff will appreciate this time of the year.
#1. Discuss taking time off sooner rather than later.
The holiday season is a busy time for everyone, including your staff, who may have personal commitments that require them to take time off. As a result, it is a good idea to discuss time-off policies and expectations with them in advance of the holiday season. This allows everyone to plan their holidays and manage their workload accordingly. By giving them ample notice, they can make arrangements to ensure their work is taken care of while they are away. Being open and understanding about their time-off needs also helps foster a sense of trust and transparency in the workplace.
It is also important to consider the impact of time-off requests on other team members. It is essential to have clear communication regarding how their absence will affect the team’s deadlines and projects. This can prevent any last-minute stress or confusion and help distribute the workload evenly among the remaining staff members.
It would also be beneficial to set a deadline for when time-off requests must be submitted in advance so that the schedule can be adjusted accordingly. It is important to remember that maintaining a balance between employee needs and business needs is crucial to a successful and harmonious holiday season for everyone.
#2. Provide mental health support.
The holiday season can bring up a whole range of emotions for your staff. While some may be looking forward to spending quality time with their loved ones, others may be dreading uncomfortable family gatherings, or struggling with grief, financial stress, or feelings of loneliness. As a manager, it is crucial to recognize the impact of these emotions on your staff’s mental health and well-being. Encourage open communication and provide access to mental health supports such as counselling or employee assistance programs. Remind your employees that it is okay to take breaks, practice self-care, and seek help when needed.
As a manager, it is also important to lead by example and prioritize self-care during this busy time of year. Encourage your staff to take breaks, use their vacation days (if possible), and disconnect from work during the holidays. Try sharing your own self-care practices with your team and let them know that taking care of themselves emotionally is a significant part of their overall well-being. This could include exercise, mindfulness techniques, or spending time with loved ones. Remember, a healthy and happy team leads to a successful and productive workplace.
#3. Clearly state your expectations.
To ensure a smooth workflow during the holiday season, it is essential to communicate expectations to your staff. Be specific about tasks that need to be completed before, during, and after the holidays. Communicate any changes in deadlines or priorities and delegate tasks accordingly. At the same time, avoid overloading your employees with extra work, and be flexible with your expectations. Remember that your employees are entitled to enjoy their holidays and recharge for the new year.
Setting clear boundaries and expectations early will also help to prevent conflicts or misunderstandings. Be sure to communicate the importance of meeting deadlines and keeping organized during this busy time. Encourage your team to plan ahead and schedule their vacation time beforehand to avoid any last-minute disruptions. Additionally, consider offering incentives or rewards for those who exceed expectations during the holiday season. This can boost morale and motivation for your staff, ensuring a successful end to the year.
#4. Show appreciation to those who work for you.
As a leader, it is important to show appreciation for your staff’s hard work and dedication throughout the year, and the holiday season is the perfect time to do so. If possible, organize a staff holiday party or a small end-of-year celebration to thank them for their efforts. Consider giving out small gifts or bonuses to show your gratitude. Your staff will feel valued and motivated to continue their hard work in the new year. One of our previous blog posts, “Do You Feel Appreciated?” shares ideas for ensuring your people feel valued and appreciated!
#5. Demonstrate respect.
As a business owner, it may be tempting to contact employees if there is a client crisis, but you should do everything you can to resist the temptation. Respect the personal time and privacy of your team members during the holiday season.
Over to You!
The holiday season can be stressful for many, and it’s important to remember that your team members are not immune to this. Taking the time to check in with them can make a big difference in their well-being. Show genuine interest in their lives outside of work and offer support if they are struggling. This demonstrates that you value them as individuals, not just as workers, and can strengthen the bond between you and your team.
A small gesture like offering flexibility in their work schedule or a thoughtful gift can also go a long way in making them feel appreciated and motivated during this busy time of year. After all, a happy and supported team will lead to better productivity and success for your organization.