With the gift-giving season fast approaching, there are lots of fun and creative ways to celebrate the holidays with your teammates:
Food. Nothings builds teams better than food. Whether you come together for a traditional potluck lunch, go to a restaurant on a special day, or bring holiday cookies, food is a great excuse to get together, laugh, and enjoy each others’ company.
Secret Santa. Pick a team member’s name and purchase a small, inexpensive gift for that one person. Usually the team agrees on what “inexpensive” means and if “gag” gifts (such as the fake dentures) are OK. Some great stocking stuffers to consider are movie coupons, restaurant coupons, gas cards, phone cards, or coupons from the local grocery store.
Decorate. As a team, deck the office halls with holiday decorations. Ask each person to bring in one item or ornament that means something special. Share the story and its significance.
Music. Play holiday music from the radio, sound system, or computer CD player. Ask team members to bring in their holiday favorites.
Dress Up. Give each person a Christmas bell, menorah, or other holiday symbol on a velvet string to wear around their necks . . . yep, it feels dorky at first, but it puts spring into your step, lightens the environment, and gives everyone a sense of the holidays.
Be Silly. Do some silly things once in a while just to have fun. When “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” comes on, crank up the volume and start singing! Be careful not to ridicule anyone or cause any damage in the process.
Smile. Make an extra effort to smile and say thank you. You don’t want to be known as the team Grinch.
Something Special. Go out of your way to do something special for team members. Offer help without being asked, look for opportunities to compliment others, and just make their day!
‘Tis the season to be jolly, and I wish you a safe and happy holiday season.
Question: What are you going to do this year to get your team in the holiday spirit?
