Five ways to motivate your employees during a festive season that will be very different
With Christmas parties cancelled, social distancing measures in place and the office decorations still in storage as many employees continue to work remotely, this festive season is going to be very different. Motivating employees through it will require a bit of a rethink.
Opportunities for a social get-together may be restricted for all but the smallest of firms, but it’s also important to take into consideration how employees will be feeling in the run up to Christmas 2020. With their own celebrations in doubt, and plenty of anxiety around job prospects, household income and the health and wellbeing of family and friends, many will be hoping for something to raise their spirits.
Here are some ideas you could consider to support and motivate staff this year.
1. Celebrate…virtually
Most of us are used to video conferences for client meetings and staff catch-ups, but these platforms can also enable an organisation to host a Christmas party. Food and drinks can be delivered ahead – or during if that’s an option – and then staff simply log on and enjoy a socially distanced knees-up. You could even find an activity such as wine or chocolate tasting, or building a gingerbread house that employees could do together.
2. Even more Secret Santa
Working remotely doesn’t mean Secret Santa can’t happen. Set the budget and arrange for gifts to be sent to participants’ homes. Those moments of embarrassment when Dave in accounts opens his festive mankini can still be captured on Zoom.
3. Offer more festive flexibility
Restrictions around households mingling and additional caring responsibilities where a friend or relative is shielding mean that some extra flexibility will be hugely appreciated by employees this year. Where it’s possible, enabling employees to take some extra time off or work different hours can be a real motivator.
4. Provide a support package
Whether employees are worried about their own family Christmas arrangements or they’re feeling anxious about the future, remind them of the support that’s available in the workplace. Knowing they can call an employee assistance programme to talk confidentially to someone about everything, from their health and relationship worries to a financial or legal problem, can provide considerable reassurance.
5. Say thank you
When everyone first went into lockdown back in March, the novelty of the situation meant there was plenty of camaraderie but, as the pandemic has dragged on, some of this initial excitement has evaporated and been replaced with uncertainty about the future. If it’s possible, a Christmas bonus can be a good motivator, but, even if it’s not, thanking employees individually for all their hard work and support will be massively appreciated. Recognition is priceless, especially when you’re working remotely or worried about the future.
This article is provided by Legal & General.
Supplied by REBA Associate Member, Legal & General
One of the UK's leading group protection providers with over 85 years' experience.
