The holiday season, a time of joy and celebration for the general public, is often marked by gifting, quality time with loved ones, and the sharing of cherished experiences. However, within the Hospitality Industry, this period can be marked by a different reality. For many employees in this sector, the holiday season means extended hours, extra shifts, and strenuous work. Consequently, it becomes important for employers to focus on taking care of their hospitality staff during this time – as it not only boosts morale but also helps in reducing stress and demonstrating appreciation for their dedicated efforts.
To effectively support and show gratitude to your hospitality employees, consider the following approaches:
- Offering Time Off - Flexibility with time-off requests is crucial. Encourage employees to plan their holiday leave well in advance to ensure appropriate staffing. Facilitate shift swaps to accommodate their holiday plans and consider offering extended time off outside the peak season, allowing your staff to rejuvenate and enjoy a well-deserved break.
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Try Seasonal Staff Parties & Decor - Organize a holiday party to foster a sense of togetherness among your employees. Provide food, entertainment, and small tokens of appreciation. Create a festive atmosphere at the workplace by decorating it with holiday-themed decorations. These celebrations can be timed to prepare for the upcoming busy season or as a reward for a job well done.
PC: Eden Salon & Spa, Republic of Congo wearing Noel Asmar Sand Faux Linen
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Provide Holiday Meals & Treats - Provide complimentary or discounted holiday meals to employees working during the holidays, ensuring they can enjoy a festive meal despite their demanding work schedules. Order staff favorites and treats to have displayed in break rooms or employee areas, fostering a cheerful, celebratory atmosphere.
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Avoid Overworking - Schedule reasonable shifts and avoid overworking your staff during this bustling season. Demonstrate understanding and flexibility when employees request time off for family events or other commitments. Allow for slightly longer breaks or extra time off to enable employees to recharge and relax.
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Offer Gifts, Bonuses, and Perks - Show appreciation by giving small gifts or perks, such as holiday-themed items, gift cards, or other tokens of gratitude. Consider providing discounts or benefits for employees and their families to enjoy your hospitality services during their time off or after the busiest days. If feasible, allocate holiday bonuses to your top-performing staff.
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Consider Employee Assistance Programs & Wellness Initiatives - Provide EAP services to support employees dealing with personal or emotional challenges during the holiday season. This can include counseling services or access to resources for various issues. Promote well-being by offering fitness classes, stress reduction workshops, or access to mental health resources either in-season or post-season downtimes.
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Be Generous with Thank-You’s & Acknowledgements - Express your appreciation through personal thank-you notes to your employees, recognizing their hard work during the holiday season. Acknowledge and reward outstanding performance with employee of the month awards, gift cards, or other incentives.
- Prioritize Clear Communication & Preparation - Keep your employees informed about any changes in schedules, events, or other crucial information during the busy holiday season. Ensure that safety and health protocols are in place to protect your employees, especially when your business experiences a surge in customers.
By taking these measures to support your hospitality employees during the holiday season, you create a positive work environment, boost employee morale and foster loyalty. When employees feel valued and appreciated, they are more likely to provide excellent service to your guests, contributing to the success of your hospitality business.
