“Just hear those sleigh bells jingling, ring ting tingling too…” Ahh, the sound of the holidays! Times filled with joy, happiness, and for most of us thoughts of looking and planning for the new year. However sometimes the holidays can be filled with not so much joy and happiness, but stress and a feeling of being overwhelmed.
This time of the year, the holidays, is a great time to slow down and show your employees how much you really do appreciate them.
Here are some run-of-the-mill and some unique ways to show your appreciate this holiday season:
- Time off
- What is a better way to recharge than by taking some time off? Allowing your employees to have a “holiday break” outside of their Paid Time Off can allow them to return in the new year refreshed. Having that gift of “time off” with friends and family can be one of the best gifts.
- Gifts / Bonus
- It is an understatement to say this time of the year can be one of the most expensive. Try giving your employees a “gift” to help with that hassle. It is understood that not all your employees would like a gift card to the same place. Try using a “Visa Gift Card” or a “Tango Card.”
- Note
- The end of the year can be filled with so much gratitude and fulfillment. It is remarkable to think about how fast the past year has gone and how much employees have completed.
AgCareers.com’s 2023 – 2024 Ag & Food HR Review found that #1 take away was that Employee Retention is essential. Sometimes life moves too fast, and we don’t take the proper time to let our employees know how much we really do appreciate them. Take this time of the year to fully communicate with your employees how much they mean to your business! This may seem like a small gesture, but it is genuinely something that many people find rewarding.
- Celebrate
- This one may seem obvious as many companies and organizations are already having a company party/ get together. Try to think outside of the box; let your employees vote on what kind of party they would like.
- Remember always to include your remote employees as well! You could simply set up a lunch party / meeting and send your remote employees a gift card beforehand to get food delivered or some sort of fun!
- Give back.
- The holiday season is the perfect time to reflect on what we have and help others less fortunate. Lead the charge at your company by volunteering this holiday season. This could look like:
- Making blankets for a children’s hospital
- Donating Christmas gifts to a struggling family
- Packaging meals for a food pantry
Remember that how your company celebrates the holidays doesn’t have to be like everyone else! Take this holiday season to let your staff know how much you really do appreciate them.
For more Human Resources & Management Advice, check out AgCareers.com Employer Resource Library.
Clara Boles
November 15, 2023
Newsletter Article
