During the holidays many employees try to find ways to be festive at work. Whether it is decorating their work space or wearing festive clothing, many believe it is important to keep the spirit of the holidays alive in the workplace. However, the type of environment an employee works in may dictate how in depth they are allowed to celebrate. For instance, some work environments may condone decorations, but not festive clothing, while other organizations may encourage festive clothing, music, and accessories to show holiday spirit. Nonetheless, the way an employee decides to express holiday spirit should be a fun and acceptable experience for everyone.
Below are ways all employees can celebrate or be festive during the holidays:
Attire
Wear colors and/or accessories associated with the holidays. These may include greens, reds, whites, gold, silver, or any color that says, “Happy Holidays”. Since some organizations have business casual or uniform based dress codes, a pop of color or an accessory can enhance any wardrobe.
Foods
Organize a potluck and invite all employees to bring foods to share with coworkers. Ensure everyone receives an invitation to make certain everyone is included in the event.
Desserts
Organize a treat exchange and invite employees to bring desserts to share with coworkers. Have employees create recipe cards and distribute with their desserts so coworkers can recreate the treats at home.
Decorations
If holidays are embraced in the workplace, hang decorations on the walls and lights in the windows. Organize a door decorating contest and embellish every inch of the hallways.
If holidays are not embraced, focus on individual work spaces. Drink out of holiday cups or mugs, display small decorations, and showcase kids or loved ones artwork.
Although the holidays may be exciting for many employees, remember some employees may celebrate differently or not at all (McKay, 2012). Regardless how the holidays are celebrated at work, be joyous, thankful, respectful of others, and overall enjoy the festivities.
Reference
McKay, D. R. (2012). Rules for dealing with the holiday season at work. Retrieved from
http://careerplanning.about.com/od/workplacesurvival/tp/holiday_rules.htm.
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