Teams Don’t Stop for the Holidays

Posted by Kristin Arnold on December 17, 2010

With the gift-giving season fast approaching, there are lots of fun and creative ways to celebrate the holidays with your team mates:

Food.  Nothing builds teams better than food.  Whether you come together for a traditional pot-luck 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 okay.  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 such as Mannheim Steamroller’s Fresh Aire Christmas, Bing Crosby’s Merry Christmas or Frank Sinatra’s A Jolly Christmas.

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 and do something special for each team member.  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 the holiday traditions in your workplace?

To book Kristin to speak or view her products go to www.ExtraordinaryTeam.com

 
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