‘Tis the season to be merry! Why not spread some holiday cheer in your workplace? Here are 7 office holiday ideas to get you and your employees in the Christmas spirit.
1. Hold an Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest
Ugly Christmas sweaters have proven to be more than just a trendy joke; they are now a holiday tradition! Our friends at Nexxtep held an ugly Christmas sweater contest, and the results were pretty impressive!
Incentivize employees to participate with a gift card as a reward (which will be much appreciated during this shopping season). You can tally votes for the ugliest or most creative sweater by polling your customers, or posting pictures on Facebook to see which sweater gets the most “likes.”
2. Adopt a Family
Many churches and local non-profit organizations offer “adopt a family” programs where you can create some Christmas magic by donating requested gifts to a family in need. Your company can sponsor a family and hold a wrapping party where employees can wrap presents and enjoy fellowship while doing some good. Similarly, you can send care packages to deployed military personnel stationed overseas during the holidays.
3. Have a Gag Gift Secret Santa
Host a gag gift exchange and have participants select a silly gift or toy that reminds them of their secret Santa. You’re sure to share some laughs as the gifts are revealed!
4. Say “Thanks” to Your Best Customers and Clients
The holidays are a perfect time to recognize your customers and show appreciation for their loyalty. Why not send a box of our holiday-themed “You Deserve It!” cookies with a personal note to say thank you!
5. But Don’t Forget Your Employees!
In addition to the usual holiday bonus, write a personal note to each employee thanking them for all of their hard work throughout the year.
6. Go on a Christmas-Themed Excursion
Instead of (or in addition to) the usual holiday party, consider having a corporate excursion to a local Christmas tree farm, ice skating rink or Christmas light show. Encourage employees to bring along the whole family. You could even rent out a local theater to play a holiday-themed movie.
7. Make Participation Optional
People are busy (and often stressed) during the holidays. There’s no need to add to the stress. Making holiday activities optional takes anxiety out of the equation and all of your employees will have a lot more fun knowing there’s no pressure to participate.
What holiday traditions does your office celebrate? Let us know in the comments!