Many assume the holiday season is filled with boisterous gift exchanges, overflowing eggnog and extravagant holiday parties. Unfortunately, many people face a different reality.
In 2021, more than 1 in 4 adults in the United States had difficulty covering basic household expenses. Additionally, the holiday season, while often cheerful, is also a proven source of stress. People feel the pressure to meet year-end deadlines at work, to be available for family, to spend on presents and activities—and they feel pressure to have fun, which can make it that much harder if they aren’t feeling all that joyful.
All of this is on top of the fact that many employees are still working remotely and companies are still reeling from several months of shelter-in-place. Supporting employees through this holiday season is essential. Here are a few ways you can help your employees this holiday season.
Support mental health initiatives in the workplace
Offer free access to apps like Headspace or provide mental health days (anonymized as vacation or sick days) to help employees recalibrate, relax and create more calm during this busy season.
Consider flexible deadlines
Sometimes, the work just has to get done, and the deadline can’t be changed. However, managers can sit down with their teams to take inventory and, perhaps, move those projects that do have more flexibility.
Simply call and ask how employees are doing
While there are many benefits to working from home, there are also most certainly some losses. Many employees have reported a deep sense of loneliness while working from home, and feel a palpable absence of camaraderie in the workplace. Checking in on your employees how well-being or what you can do to support them can make a world of difference.
Not all employees have the privilege of holiday cheer, but employers certainly have a hand in easing possible hardships. And sometimes the best presents don’t come in gift wrap and shiny bows, but in the form of extending compassion and appreciation when people need it most.
