It’s that time of year again. Snow is falling, people are buying gifts like crazy, and there is delicious food everywhere. Even at work.
Everyone has different reactions to this time of year in the workplace. Some people would rather hide till it’s all over, while others embrace the season with a fervor that makes everyone else, frankly, a little scared. So, I’ve put together a quick list of do’s and don’ts to help you navigate the holidays at work.
Seasonal Greetings
Don’t: Assume everyone celebrates the holidays you celebrate. While most people won’t be offended by being wished, “Merry Christmas” if they don’t celebrate it, it’s best to avoid putting both of you in an awkward place if they respond with, “Thanks, but I don’t celebrate Christmas”.
Do: Stick to pleasant but ambiguous phrases like, “Happy Holidays” and “Happy New Year”. I have a good friend who loves wishing people Happy New Year. His contention is that everyone celebrates it, so everyone enjoys being wished Happy New Year. I think he’s right. Of course, I usually need to remind him mid-January that it’s time to stop!
Decorations
Do: Show your holiday spirit in your work area or cube. It makes things feel festive. Fire-safe lights or garlands really glam up the place and create a happy atmosphere.
Don’t: Decorate with anything that could turn into a fire hazard. Don’t block emergency exits. No one wants to hear on the 6 o’clock news, “Staff trapped in burning building by Santa and his reindeer.”
Holiday Parties
Do: Enjoy a little break from the usual workday to interact with your coworkers more socially. Even if it’s not your favorite way to spend your lunch hour, putting yourself out there a bit in the name of team building can be valuable. You might even end up having a great time.
Don’t: Go overboard with the holiday ‘cheer’ at a party attended by your coworkers. Having a bit too much to drink can lead to oversharing. Your boss doesn’t need to know about the time you had too much eggnog and started dancing on the table with your Aunt Melba, for example.
Gift Giving
Do: Get into the spirit and let people know you appreciate them at the holidays. Give little gifts if you are moved to do so. Participate in a Secret Santa or a Yankee swap. It might seem a little hokey, but it’s also a fun way to celebrate the season- and get a beer holder fanny pack you never knew you wanted!
Don’t: Accept gifts from vendors. Don’t give gifts if doing so makes you uncomfortable or straps you financially. A handmade card or a batch of cookies to share has the same sentiment as an expensive gift – and doesn’t leave anyone feeling obligated. And if it’s just not your thing, say so politely but firmly. It’s important to respect everyone’s choices, even if that choice is to opt out.
So, that’s my advice for enjoying the holidays at work. I hope it helps you make it through with no regrets, and a little fun. Anyone have any other tips to share?
I wish you all a safe and happy holiday season, and a Happy New Year!
Great tips, Suzanne!
I’ve noticed that the holidays are a time when people’s impressive baking skills come out as well. Perhaps it’s because I can’t/don’t bake, but the treats people bring in are pretty AND yummy!