Holiday Cheer: Best Practices for Workplace Festivities
Article: November 2024
The Chamber’s new CHUMCAP (Chamber Human Capital) series is designed to help share important HR information and offer suggestions on where to get support. The Southington Regional Chamber of Commerce is partnering with experts in the field to help you protect your business and your employees.
As the holiday season approaches, businesses are planning festivities to boost morale and celebrate employees’ hard work. Here are some quick tips to make workplace celebrations festive, inclusive, and fun:
- Make Attendance Voluntary: Allow employees the choice to participate or opt out without pressure.
- Keep It Inclusive: Use neutral terms like “Holiday Gathering” and encourage sharing of diverse traditions to create an inclusive environment.
- Offer a Variety of Activities: Beyond a party, consider festive alternatives like an “ugly sweater day”, holiday dessert competition, or online games and live video feeds. These can include everyone, even remote workers.
- Encourage Responsible Behavior: If alcohol is served, provide options for safe transport, and remind staff of conduct expectations to keep the celebration respectful.
- Support Local Charities: Spread the cheer by organizing a community activity or charity drive to bring employees together while giving back.
- Express Appreciation: Simple gestures like a thank-you speech or handwritten card can go a long way in showing gratitude for employees’ contributions.
Creating a festive, respectful, and low-pressure environment ensures everyone can enjoy the season while keeping the workplace culture positive and inclusive. For more information on employment policies and practices and where to get help, visit the CHUMCAP page at SouthingtonChamber.com or call the Chamber office at 860.628.8036. Chamber member experts in the field provide additional information on this page and offer suggestions for guidance and support. (This article is a collaboration among the Southington Regional Chamber of Commerce, eGage Human Resources & Safety Consulting, and Employment Attorney Allie Levene.)