As we approach the holiday season, it’s impossible to ignore the challenges 2024 brought to businesses and their people. With 70% of employees reporting increased workplace stress (Gallup, 2024) and over 50% of workers feeling emotionally disconnected from their jobs, leaders must intentionally focus on staff culture to foster engagement and resilience.
Here are 10 actionable ideas to help business owners and leaders build a strong, people-first culture during the holidays while setting the tone for a healthier 2025:
1. Acknowledge the Challenges of 2024
Don’t overlook the emotional toll this year has had on your team. Openly recognize the challenges they’ve faced—whether it’s burnout, economic pressures, or personal struggles. A simple acknowledgment can go a long way toward creating a supportive environment.
Action: Host a brief all-hands meeting or send a heartfelt message reflecting on the year’s challenges and expressing gratitude for the team’s perseverance.
2. Prioritize Mental Health Resources
Mental health continues to be a pressing concern, with 40% of employees citing stress as a primary factor in decreased productivity (APA, 2024). Leaders must actively promote mental health resources.
Action: Provide access to counseling, flexible holiday schedules, or mindfulness apps. Encourage your team to take time off to recharge fully.
3. Show Gratitude Through Personalized Gestures
Generic holiday cards won’t cut it. Show genuine appreciation by personalizing your gestures.
Action: Write personalized notes highlighting specific contributions from each team member. If possible, include a small, meaningful gift tied to their role or interests.
4. Host a Team-Building Holiday Activity
Team-building doesn’t need to feel corporate. Holiday activities can bring lighthearted moments that strengthen bonds.
Action: Organize a low-pressure, inclusive event like a cookie decorating contest, virtual Secret Santa, or an ugly sweater day. Focus on fun, not formality.
5. Set Up End-of-Year Listening Sessions
Give your team a voice by asking what worked and what didn’t in 2024. Listening now will help you refine your strategy for 2025.
Action: Schedule one-on-one check-ins or anonymous surveys to gather feedback. Ask about their challenges, suggestions for improvement, and what would make their work more fulfilling.
6. Reflect on Core Values
Revisiting your company’s mission and values can inspire renewed commitment and focus.
Action: Share stories from the year where team members embodied your values. Highlight how these moments align with your mission and future goals.
7. Celebrate Wins, Big and Small
End the year on a positive note by recognizing achievements—even the smaller ones that may have gone unnoticed.
Action: Create a “Year in Review” presentation showcasing team accomplishments, milestones, and standout moments. Celebrate together with a toast or catered lunch.
8. Launch a “Pay It Forward” Initiative
Encourage a culture of giving by involving your team in holiday charity or community efforts. Doing good together strengthens team spirit.
Action: Partner with a local nonprofit for a holiday fundraiser, food drive, or volunteering opportunity. Match employee donations if possible.
9. Ensure Leaders Are Accessible
Leaders must be approachable and available during the holidays, setting the tone for empathy and support.
Action: Schedule informal office hours or holiday coffee chats where team members can connect with you in a relaxed setting.
10. Plan for a Culture-Driven 2025
The holidays are the perfect time to strategize for a healthier, more engaged workplace in the coming year.
Action: Outline actionable steps to build a sustainable culture in 2025. Include initiatives like leadership training, wellness programs, and enhanced communication strategies.
Why Staff Culture Matters Now More Than Ever
With employee engagement directly linked to retention and productivity, prioritizing a people-first culture isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a business imperative. Building a resilient team this holiday season will position your organization for growth and stability in 2025.
If you’re unsure how to integrate these ideas into your business strategy or want to build a healthier staff culture, let’s talk. Together, we can create a plan that aligns your team’s emotional and professional needs with your company’s goals for the year ahead.
Let’s make 2025 a year of connection, resilience, and growth.
