As the year draws to a close, the “silly season” is upon us. This time of year, encompassing Black Friday, Christmas, and the end of the year, is marked by a whirlwind of activity both professionally and personally. At openHR.co.za, we understand the unique challenges this period presents, and we’re here to offer guidance on how to support your employees during this hectic time.
The Impact of Silly Season on Employees
The holiday season often brings increased workload, tight deadlines, and heightened stress. Employees are juggling end-of-year tasks, holiday preparations, and personal commitments, leading to potential burnout. The pressure to perform at work while managing the demands of the season can significantly impact mental health.
Beyond the Workplace
It’s not just the professional life that’s affected; personal lives are equally strained. Traffic congestion increases, shopping centres are crowded, and the rush to find the perfect gifts can be overwhelming. These factors contribute to higher stress levels, affecting overall wellbeing.
Strategies to Support Employee Wellbeing
Flexible Working Hours Allowing flexible working hours can help employees balance their professional and personal lives. Remote work options and adjustable schedules can alleviate some of the time pressure.
Promote a Culture of Understanding Encourage managers to be empathetic and understanding. Recognizing that employees may be under more stress than usual can foster a supportive work environment.
Encourage Breaks and Downtime Regular breaks are crucial. Encourage employees to take short breaks throughout the day and to step away from their desks. Promote the use of vacation days and ensure that employees feel comfortable taking time off.
Provide Mental Health Resources Offering access to mental health resources, such as counselling services, can make a significant difference. Workshops on stress management and mindfulness can also be beneficial.
Organise Team Activities Planning low-pressure, fun team activities can boost morale. Virtual or in-person gatherings, holiday parties, or even small token gifts can make employees feel valued and appreciated.
Effective Communication Keep communication channels open. Regular check-ins with employees can help identify those who may be struggling and offer support as needed.
Adapting to External Stressors
Addressing the external stressors that come with the silly season is equally important. Encourage employees to plan their holiday shopping during less busy hours and explore online shopping to avoid crowded malls. Promoting carpooling or flexible commuting times can help reduce the stress of traffic congestion.
At openHR, we believe that the key to navigating the silly season is fostering a supportive and flexible workplace. By recognising the unique challenges this period presents and offering practical solutions, we can help employees thrive both professionally and personally.
Let’s commit to making this silly season a little less stressful and a lot more supportive.
