How HR Can Boost Morale At The End Of A Turbulent Year

It’s December already and the holiday season is nearly upon us. As much as we love and look forward to this special time of year, it is an undeniable truth that it can often bring stress and additional workload throughout many companies. Countless staff will be trying to check off their last-minute to-do lists and complete all those urgent tasks before they can properly rest and enjoy the festive season. This year, some industries have seen an even greater workload than normal because of the pandemic. Moreover, many people may not be able to visit family and friends during the holidays or may not feel comfortable attending gatherings due to coronavirus.

As HR professionals, we should try to boost employee morale during challenging times. We should never underestimate the value of small things we can do to increase morale. Here, we will highlight just a few simple and effective tips to help make your workforce feel engaged, happy and appreciated this season.

Encourage people to take time off

It may sound straightforward but all too often it is vitally important to encourage overworked staff to take time off to prevent burnout. It can be a great feeling for a staff member to get a message from their manager and/or HR encouraging them to take a few days off. Not just because it means they can take a break, but because it shows the company cares about their wellbeing and appreciates all the hard work they’ve put in. Sometimes it’s not enough to simply wait for people to apply for leave and then approve it.

Being proactive about managing time off and looking out for team members who are struggling is far more effective. Heightened anxiety and feelings of uncertainty can mean that some people are reluctant to book time off. By encouraging these people to take a break to spend time with loved ones or simply take care of themselves away from work, you can help to relieve their stress and anxiety. Try this if you have not already. You will see how much people appreciate it.

Manage expectations with project timelines

For long term projects, encourage managers to be accommodating and agile around the holidays. It will help to reduce work related anxiety during the season and avoid tasks mounting up once people return to work after the holidays. Encourage team leaders to discuss project timelines and upcoming deadlines with their team, ensuring they have all the support required to stay on track.

Managers should be advised to make expectations clear with their team that no one individual or small group should take on the burden of a project over the festive period - it must be a whole team effort! In addition, it is not advisable to kick off a major project right before the holiday season. A lot of preparation will be required at an already busy time and it can kill employee morale and the holiday mood.

Have fun at work

The holiday season is all about having fun, enjoying yourself, de-stressing and recharging. Who says this can only happen outside of work? There are many ways you can make this time of year festive and fun at work. The pandemic has made it difficult, but not impossible to enjoy ourselves. Organize a remote work Christmas party, a quiz, virtual Secret Santa or online karaoke. There is so much you can do.

At the very least, hold an all-hands virtual gathering where business activities are off-topic. Let people relax and enjoy themselves with their teammates. Your staff will appreciate the fun break and feel like their morale and wellbeing is valued by their employer.

Thank you notes

2020 has been challenging for everyone. The pandemic has made our lives difficult at times and everyone is still working hard to do the best they can given the circumstances and restrictions. Sending out a thank you note to staff for all they have done, their contribution to the company and for sticking together in hard times will go a long way towards making them feel appreciated. Let your managers do this for their respective teams so that the messaging is personal and meaningful. Kind and encouraging words can do a great job at boosting morale during this holiday season.

These simple tips seem like minor things but they can make all the difference when it comes to making your team feel appreciated and cared for this season. Maintaining good workforce morale ensures employees are engaged and invested in their roles and the wider business. It can positively impact productivity, culture and loyalty. Make this holiday season special for your team!