Christmas is a time of good cheer with numerous office Christmas parties and events – But how do you keep your workforce healthy and motivated during the festive period. 

One of the most important thing for business owners is to try and wind down as much as possible, and not flog people hard up to Christmas day.

This is the right time to reward your team for all their hard work by giving them the opportunity to let their hair down and have a bit of extra flexibility.

So, how do you keep your employees healthy and motivated throughout the festive period:

Introduce A Christmas Incentive Package

You could implement a workplace saving schemes so that your staff save money throughout the year and receive a lump sum in December or simply collect vouchers for high street stores which can be used at Christmas.

Try And Keep To A Healthy Diet

Healthy snacks will keep everyone’s energy levels raised and the blood sugar level balanced. It is easy to reach for the endless supply of chocolates and treats lying around the office but this would just give you an instant high followed by a sugar crash.  

Doing this will help you get a lot more done with ease and you’ll also be able to enjoy the things that are worth enjoying.

Offer A Consistent Flexible Working Policy To Your Team

There are endless commitments over Christmas such as children’s Christmas plays and the endless invitations to Christmas drinks.

Giving your staff some flexibility and time off to enjoy those treasured moments can lead to a more motivated and valued workforce.

Be Clear On What You Expect During Working Hours

Your team need to know what you expect from them during December. If you are at the year end and have targets that need to be achieved, then get everyone’s buy in and the month will go much smoother.

Have A Heart And Remember That Not Everyone Has A Family

Christmas can be a difficult time for many people, especially those who recently lost loved ones through bereavement or family break up. Keep your eye out for those in your team who may struggle with the festive period and may need some extra support.

Encourage Your Staff To Keep Active

Encourage your team to get out and keep active by creating lunchtime walking groups. Fresh air can clear the mind and a brisk walk can help burn off some of the calories consumed, for example in a 30-minute brisk walk you can use up to 200 calories.

Thank Your Team

Don’t get swept away in the rush towards the end of the year, but January is renowned for the month when people start to change jobs.

It is important to keep your workforce motivated so be sure to make time and effort to show your appreciation for what they have achieved throughout the year.

After all, you want them to come back after Christmas still engaged and ready to get on with the job in hand.

Don’t Forget – Have Some Fun In The Office

Arrange an office Christmas quiz, team night out or secret Santa presents to have some fun with each other in the office.

If Secret Santa has lost it’s appeal, put a new twist on it by inviting staff to donate presents to a local charity instead, as a way of giving something back to the community.

Post By: Brett Hill, MD, The Health Insurance Group.