Published December 2005

Handling the holidays
in workplace

The jingling of the bell ringer, downtown carolers, twinkling lights, the smells of holly and evergreen, the holiday season envelops us all, permeating deeply into the fabric of our businesses and organizations.

Yet, as with any time so filled with varying emotions and feelings, because so many get caught up in the promise as well as the stress of times, we stand a greater chance of erring as we decide the appropriateness of decisions that will set the tone during this sensitive period.

So it is with the best intentions that I offer this reasoned guide to having a fun, enjoyable and trouble-free holiday season at work. Let’s consider:

• Holiday, which holiday? Celebrants of Hanukkah and Kwanzaa can be as emotionally committed to their holidays as are those who get caught up in Christmas. Don’t trip yourself up trying to play the game of political correctness. A reasonable approach is to be aware of the private celebrations within each employee’s family culture while participating in public and collective observances.
• The gift of leadership. ’Tis the season to lighten up, managers. At year’s end, you can easily justify your crew having accomplished enough to merit reasonable celebration during “the season.” While exercising control over the budget, turn over the planning and preparations of any celebration to the troops. Joining them as a peer by rolling up your sleeves to help will enhance your leadership stature. If business requires that some people work on the actual holiday, take time to join them.
• Parties. Holiday social functions, such as the traditional Christmas party, can be potential career gold mines or land mines. Remember, they are not held for pure enjoyment but as a stage to sell yourself to colleagues, bosses and many people you don’t know. Approach these social events as you would an initial job interview. Dress stylishly yet modestly. A nonstop, and hopefully, sincere smile plus a goal to learn something nonwork related that’s happening in the lives of every adult present will make you a memorable part of the gathering. Remember to exchange pleasantries with senior leaders, but keep your visit brief.
• Showing appreciation. Gift giving carries as much chance of causing confusion, disappointment or embarrassment as creating seasonal goodwill. Instead of a gift, consider a sincerely worded personal appreciation for the relationship within a tasteful holiday card. Show appreciation to customers and vendors through a sincerely worded card, a holiday plant or floral decorative, or perhaps by hosting a low-key reception at the end of a business day.

Have a wonderful, productive holiday season.

Eric Zoeckler operates The Scribe, a business writing service with many Snohomish County-based clients. He also writes a column on workplace issues in The Herald on Mondays. He can be reached at 206-284-9566 or by e-mail to mrscribe@aol.com.

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