The holidays can be a very lonely time for many people, but having strong connections to a “work family” can help. You don’t have to add formal teambuilding events to everyone’s already packed calendars. Instead, consider these low-pressure ways to help people connect throughout the holiday season.
Catered Meals
There’s a reason that major life events, from baby showers to funerals, always involve food. Bonding over a shared meal is a time-tested tradition. Consider catering an occasional meal now and then for everyone at your worksite, and provide long enough breaks for people to take advantage of it. If your facility operates 24 hours a day, don’t forget to bring in fresh food for the night shift!
Volunteer Opportunities
Doing something for others can help boost even the loneliest person’s mood, and volunteering gives people a chance to get to know each other outside of work. Whether you clean up the local beach or spend an hour singing holiday tunes at a hospital or nursing home, plan opportunities that allow everyone to work side by side. Even better, survey your employees to determine what sort of volunteer work they would like to do.
Optional Activities
No matter where you are located, the holiday calendar is packed with special events. Consider treating everyone to a holiday show at the local community theater or organizing a trip to the ice skating rink. Make it clear that participation is not required, since some people will simply be too busy to attend. But scheduling a few special events throughout the season gives your employees a lot of opportunities to connect with their teammates.
Company Holiday Party
Company holiday parties have fallen out of favor in recent years, but they were long an expected part of the seasonal calendar. Revive this tradition in a modern way by blocking out a weekend afternoon and inviting workers to bring their families. You can cater the entire event or ask workers to contribute to a potluck (put up a sign-up sheet so you don’t end up with five dozen deviled eggs and no meat!). Plan some games that are fun for all ages, and consider skipping the alcohol for a more family-friendly feel.
Many people struggle during the holiday season. Providing low key ways for your employees to connect with each other can help lift everyone’s spirits and keep your projects moving smoothly.
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