The end of the year is always a busy time for businesses. As everyone closes out one year and prepares for the next, there’s much to do. For many businesses, this means longer hours and extra work for employees. While it’s important to get the work done, it’s also important to ensure your employees are comfortable during this busy period. Here are a few tips on how to do just that.
Create a Relaxed Atmosphere
The first step in making your employees comfortable is to create a relaxed atmosphere. This can be done in several ways, but one of the easiest is encouraging breaks. Ensure your employees know they’re allowed to take a break from their workstations, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
Encourage them to take walks, get some fresh air, or step away from their desks to clear their heads. Consider playing soothing music in the office or bringing comfortable furniture like couches or bean bags. You can also replace their office chairs with ergonomic executive office chairs. These chairs don’t only give comfort but also provide support for their back.
Schedule Break Times
Another great way to ensure your employees are comfortable is to schedule regular break times. This could be a set time during lunch, afternoon break, or an hour-long break once per week, depending on the needs of your business and employees. During these breaks, encourage them to take time away from their desks and do something. Your team could go for walks, take yoga classes, or sit and chat. This will allow them to decompress and return to work feeling refreshed and energized.
Provide Snacks and Meals
Another way to ensure your employees are comfortable is by providing snacks or meals throughout the day. This is particularly important if you expect long hours from them during the busy year-end period. You can try these ideas:
- Order food for lunch (or dinner)
- Provide healthy snacks such as fruit, nuts, and other snacks high in protein
- Stock the break room fridge with nutritious drinks that employees can grab when needed
Try to make the meals as tasty and filling as possible. You can even make the meals yourself if you know how to cook. Make it special for your employees, as they will appreciate the effort. Just make sure you know any dietary restrictions to make adjustments.
Communicate Clearly and Often
During busy times, it’s important to communicate with your employees clearly and often. Let them know what’s expected of them and give them as much notice when there are changes or deadlines. When you need to give last-minute assignments, try to pair them up with someone so they feel free of the burden themselves. And if you can, offer flexibility regarding hours and deadlines. The more flexible you can be, your employees will be more comfortable. You can ask them these questions to make sure they are doing well:
- How can I help you?
- What do you need from me to make this successful?
- Is there anything else that can be done to make your job easier?
Communicating clearly and often with your employees will make them feel valued and appreciated. It’s also a great way for your employees to get clarification on things they might need help understanding or need additional help with.
Set an Example
If you expect your team to work longer hours and put in extra effort during the year-end period, then you should be doing the same. Showing that you’re in it together will create a sense of camaraderie among your staff and make them feel more comfortable during this busy time. This is also a perfect time to learn something from them about work that you might not have known before. For example, try to learn a new software or system that your team already knows.
When you set an example, you also show your employees that you’re willing to work hard and put in the extra effort when needed. This can boost morale and make everyone feel more comfortable during this busy time.
Provide Incentives
Finally, provide incentives for employees who go above and beyond during this busy period. This could be anything from bonuses and gift cards to paid time off or extra vacation days. You can also give recognition for their hard work through awards or acknowledgments. You can hold an awarding ceremony to recognize those who put in extra effort during the year-end period. Offer incentives to encourage employees to work hard and give their best during this time.
The end of the year is always a busy time for businesses. Still, ensuring your employees are comfortable during this period is important. By creating a relaxed atmosphere, communicating clearly and often, and providing incentives, you can help your team members feel comfortable even when the workload is high.
