As we enter the second holiday season since COVID-19 rocked the world, your employees are understandably tired and somewhat overwhelmed. It’s been a tough road, and things still aren’t quite back to normal. Yet your business has also been affected, and you may not be able to afford huge holiday bonuses this year. Here are a few ways to give back to your employees this holiday season without breaking the bank.
Offer Flexibility
One of the biggest things workers are craving these days is flexibility. From remote work options to flexible scheduling, see if there is any way to make your employees’ lives a little easier over the holidays. If it’s your busy season, you may not be able to provide this right away. But what about a companywide announcement that in January (or whenever your slow season starts), you’ll be offering more flexible work options?
Ask for Feedback
Employees want to know that they are seen and heard, and that their opinions are valued. This holiday season, make a commitment to regularly seek feedback from workers at all levels. Be sure to give all feedback reasonable consideration, and take action when possible.
Support a Cause
Everyone likes to be part of something bigger than themselves. Whether you hold a food drive for a local nonprofit or tie into a nationwide charity, this is a great way for everyone to work together to help those in need. To get the most buy-in, ask your employees to choose the cause and the organization you’ll support.
Start a Team
Whether your employees are into baseball or video games, consider starting an optional league for interested workers to join in their off time. This gives them the opportunity to bond in a more personal way while relieving some of their everyday stress. Make sure you participate as well. If you’re not good at the particular activity, so much the better. Employees love to see that the boss isn’t perfect and isn’t afraid to admit it.
Make It Meaningful
You might still want to give some kind of individualized gifts to your employees this year, even if you can’t afford large holiday bonuses. Rather than quantity, focus on quality. Consider a personalized, handwritten card that acknowledges a specific contribution they made this year, along with a small check or gift card.
The holidays may be different this year, but there’s no reason they can’t be festive. Focus on things that don’t cost a lot, but are deeply meaningful to your team.
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