10 Ways to Treat Employees This Christmas: A Season of Joy
As Summer ends, it’s time to start thinking about how you’re going to treat employees this christmas for all their hard work.
Christmas isn’t just for family and friends, it’s also an excellent opportunity to show some love to the people who make your business thrive, your employees!
Stick around as we dive into why it’s awesome to treat your staff at Christmas, the big wins for everyone involved and 10 heartwarming ways to make your employees’ holiday season one to remember.
Contents
Why is it Nice to Treat Employees at Christmas?
What are the Benefits of Treating Employees at Christmas?
10 Ways to Treat Employees This Christmas
Why is it Nice to Treat Employees at Christmas?
So, why should you put in the effort to treat your employees well at Christmas?
Simply put, it’s a season of giving. It’s a time when people are more open to gestures of kindness and good will.
These positive vibes shouldn’t just be limited to our personal lives, they can and should spill over into the workplace.
When you treat your employees well during the holiday season, it sends a powerful message.
You’re saying, “Hey, I see you. I appreciate you.” It’s a simple act that can recharge an entire team’s energy and motivation.
In a year that often feels like a marathon, a little kindness at the finish line can mean the world.
Plus, let’s not forget that Christmas comes at the end of the year. It’s a natural point to pause and reflect, both personally and professionally. Treating your employees well during this time can set a positive tone for the year to come.
Treating your employees well at Christmas isn’t just a kind thing to do, it’s a smart business move that can boost morale and lay the foundation for a stellar new year.
What are the Benefits of Treating Employees at Christmas?
You might be wondering, what’s in it for the business? Fair question! Believe it or not, the benefits of treating your employees well during the Christmas season extend beyond good vibes.
Here’s why:
Boosts Morale
First up, employee morale skyrockets. When people feel valued and appreciated, they’re more likely to put in extra effort.
This boost in morale can ripple through the workplace, uplifting everyone in its path.
Increases Loyalty
When you go that extra mile for your employees, they’re more likely to stick around. Retaining top talent is a win-win for everyone, and a little holiday cheer can go a long way in making that happen.
Improves Productivity
Happy employees are often more productive employees. That Christmas treat can energise your team to cross the finish line of the year on a high note.
Enhances Team Dynamics
Holiday activities and treats can also be team-building opportunities. They help break down barriers, enhance communication, and foster a sense of community within the team.
Reduces Stress
The end of the year can be stressful with closing projects and meeting targets. A little bit of Christmas spirit can reduce stress and make the workload feel more manageable.
Sets a Positive Tone for the New Year
Last but not least, how you end the year sets the tone for the year ahead. Treat your employees well this Christmas, and you start the New Year on a strong footing, fuelled with positivity and enthusiasm.
10 Ways to Treat Employees This Christmas
Alright, let’s get to the part you’ve been waiting for—the 10 standout ways you can treat your employees this Christmas.
These ideas are not just delightful, but they’re also beneficial for everyone involved.
1. On-site Chair Massage
Let’s kick things off with something truly relaxing—an on-site chair massage.
How many times have you heard your employees complain about back pain or stress?
Probably more than a few. Offering on-site chair massages during the Christmas season can be an absolute game-changer.
Not only does it offer instant stress relief, but it also promotes better posture and can even improve productivity.
Want to know more? Check out Our Employee On-Site Massage to see how it works and how you can treat your staff.
2. Wellbeing Workshops
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to wellbeing.
This Christmas, consider organising wellbeing workshops for your team.
These can cover a range of topics like stress management, harnessing gratitude, creating life-changing habits or even improving health.
The objective is to provide your team with tools they can use to improve their quality of life, both at work and outside it.
For more details on what these workshops can offer, head over to our Employee Wellbeing Workshops.
3. Flexible Holiday Scheduling
The Christmas season is packed with events, family gatherings, and often some much-needed downtime.
While business needs don’t vanish during the Christmas period, offering flexible scheduling can make a world of difference for your employees.
Imagine the relief of employees being able to attend a child’s school play or take an afternoon off for last-minute shopping without the stress of work hanging over them.
You can implement flexible Christmas hours or even allow remote work days.
This freedom not only boosts employee satisfaction but can also lead to increased productivity as employees are likely to be more focused and grateful when they do work.
4. Personalised Gift Baskets
The joy of receiving a gift that shows thought and consideration makes most of us happy!
Personalised gift baskets can make each team member feel individually valued and appreciated.
Don’t just fill a basket with generic items, think about what each person might like. Does Sarah love gourmet coffee? Add a high-quality French press and a bag of artisanal beans.
Is Tom a fitness enthusiast? Consider adding a stylish water bottle and a set of resistance bands.
The key is to make it personal. This extra effort communicates that you not only care about your employees but also know and appreciate their unique qualities.
It boosts morale, fosters a positive work environment, and who knows, might even make you the best boss ever in their eyes.
5. Host a Virtual Holiday Party
For those teams that are geographically dispersed or are still practicing remote work, a virtual holiday party can be a real morale-booster.
Why not organise a well-planned Zoom meeting, complete with breakout rooms for different activities. Perhaps even have virtual guest speakers or organise wellbeing webinars.
One room could host a holiday movie trivia game, another could be for a gingerbread house decorating contest where participants show off their culinary artistic skills.
The aim is to get everyone involved and foster a sense of togetherness, even when miles apart.
6. Year-end Performance Bonuses
If you want to show your employees you not only appreciate their hard work but also want to share the fruits of their labour, year-end performance bonuses can be an impactful way of doing so.
Unlike a regular holiday bonus, a performance bonus takes into account each employee’s contributions and achievements, making it more personalised and meaningful.
This could be based on hitting certain targets, completion of special projects, or going the extra mile in customer service.
The bonus serves to recognise the individual value each employee brings to the table, which can be incredibly motivating and validating.
7. Office Makeover Day
How about giving the work environment a little holiday spruce-up?
This isn’t just about Christmas decorations, it’s about creating a workspace that feels renewed and invigorating for the new year ahead.
Consider giving each team member a small budget to personalise their workspace.
It could be used for ergonomic chairs, standing desks, or even quality noise-cancelling headphones.
Host an “Office Makeover Day” where everyone gets to set up their new items and share their choices with the team.
A refreshed environment can significantly improve mood and productivity, making this a gift that keeps on giving.
8. Extra Paid Day Off
The holiday season can be hectic and stressful, both in our personal lives and at work.
One of the most valued gifts you can offer your employees is the gift of time.
An extra paid day off allows them to unwind, spend quality time with family, or even catch up on personal chores they’ve been putting off.
Best of all, it’s a stress-reliever that comes at no expense to them, making it a truly thoughtful gesture.
The extra day off will be immensely appreciated and can result in a more rested, focused, and happier team when work resumes.
9. Community Service Day
The Christmas season often evokes a spirit of giving and community.
Why not channel this into a group activity that benefits a cause?
Arrange a community service day where the team can volunteer at a local charity, food bank, or community centre.
This not only gives everyone a chance to give back but also fosters a sense of teamwork and shared purpose.
Plus, doing good feels good, and it can be a strong bonding experience for everyone involved.
If getting everyone out of the office is difficult, consider virtual volunteer opportunities or “donation drives” where employees can contribute items to be given to a charity.
10. Personalised Thank-You Notes
Last but not least, never underestimate the power of a heartfelt “thank you.”
Take some time to write personalised thank-you notes to each of your employees.
Go beyond a generic message, mention specific contributions they have made and qualities you appreciate.
These notes can be given out at a team meeting or included in a year-end package with other treats.
It’s a simple, cost-effective gesture, but the emotional impact is significant.
Employees feel seen and valued, which can go a long way in boosting morale and fostering a positive work culture.
This Christmas, you have an incredible opportunity to make a lasting impression on your employees.
Whether you choose one of these 10 ways or come up with your own thoughtful gestures, the key is to show genuine appreciation and care.
Remember, a little goodwill can go a long way—not just during the Christmas period, but all year round.
So why wait? Start planning now and make this holiday season unforgettable for your team!
Author
Tyler Lowe – Health & Wellbeing Speaker
BSc Sport & Exercise Rehabilitation
