NFIB

Holiday Spirit in the Workplace
03/ 28/ 2002


The "holiday spirit" is a broader concept that suggests a lighter attitude and more joyous involvement in routine tasks. Management can and should foster the holiday spirit to allow those employees on the job to feel a part of the holiday festivities. In today's Workshop, writer Edith Helmich gives some thoughtful ways to bring a celebration of the holiday into the workplace without disrupting productivity.

1. Seasonal decorations. Holiday decorations provide an overall atmosphere of celebration. The visual stimulation of colors is a proven mood-enhancer. Making the workplace look different makes it feel different.

2. Seasonal sounds. Music appropriate to the holiday is another time-tested enhancement. Whether the sound is a quiet background of taped music, or bells jingling on the door, the auditory association with the holiday is an effective way to enhance a mundane workplace.

3. Snacks and special foods. Who can doubt the importance of food for the holidays? Providing a special snack area spread or buffet is always a popular choice. To extend the holiday spirit over a longer span, this is a good time to encourage employees to bring in samples of their holiday goodies.

4. Special perks. If ever there was an appropriate time for allowing a longer lunch time, extended break, or shorter workday, a working holiday is that time. Staggering the schedule minimizes the impact of absent employees.

5. Incentive compensation. Providing incentives for working on a holiday may encourage volunteers so that mandatory holiday presence is unnecessary. Offering a "comp day" or "time-and-a-half pay" may be all that is necessary to provide options that will benefit both the employee and the company.

6. Rotation schedules for holidays. Sometimes there is no way to avoid the requirement of working on a holiday. Seldom, however, is it necessary for all employees to work on that day. Rotating the "off-work" option means that all employees will have the luxury of celebrating the next holiday (or the one after that!) away from the workplace. Employees appreciate the fair treatment that results from a rotation policy.

The management of companies where employees are valued take time to institute practices that add up to an environment with abundant holiday spirit. Doing so is more a matter of thoughtfulness than time or money.

workshop.microbusiness.fri
12.3.99

Small Business Sound Off
Does this story hit home?  Share your story with us