Christmas holidays are supposed to be the happiest, jolliest time of the year. But the latest research, commissioned by Joy Organics, shows that, in fact, the holidays are the most stressful time of the year for 88% of respondents and 84% are noticing these excessive feelings of stress as early as November! So, amazing leader that you are, how can you support your team this Christmas season?
Ask the right question
A blanket, open-ended question, such as ‘How can I help you?’, goes a long way towards ensuring your employees’ trust and ensuring there’s open communication. While as a boss, you probably mostly discuss work-related issues with them, before Christmas, lead them gently towards sharing their day-to-day pain points outside their work responsibilities. Try to find out whether there are any tools you can arm them with or any support you can provide that will help them feel more secure and looked after these holidays.
Double-check whether you’re doing your best
Your most important job as a leader is to… well, LEAD! To inspire, support and motivate your team. But sometimes your daily work routine can take over this part of your job. As we’re fast approaching Christmas holidays, take some time to re-evaluate your own performance towards your team and don’t be afraid to ask them if you’re doing your best in supporting them, are they feeling seen and cherished the way they deserve? It’s easy to miss the moment when your focus switches from your team to your personal work priorities and now is the perfect time to get yourself back on track!
Celebrate big and small wins
It’s been a long and not always easy year, that’s for sure! But this doesn’t mean there’s nothing to celebrate! And nothing will uplift your team’s spirit as much as an acknowledgement and celebration of everything they’ve achieved this year. From grand accomplishments, like wrapping up the biggest project of the year, to small victories, like excellent feedback about one of your employees on your Facebook page – find the time to congratulate them on their wins. It builds a positive environment at work, helps your employees to feel motivated, valued and seen.
Plan for the future
We know, we know, not something you want to do when Christmas gifts are what’s really on your mind these days. But having goals and a clear vision for the future will help your team feel safe and secure. This will also give them something to look forward to and, after the holidays, they’ll return to work motivated and excited. When discussing the future of the company with your employees, make sure to ask them where and in what role they see themselves in the future. This will help you, as a leader, to start thinking beyond the established frames and, quite possibly, discover new business opportunities.