Plan a Christmas surprise for your team

Hear that? Ah, it’s the sound of sleighbells, bad Christmas carols and toddlers throwing tantrums in shopping centres.

Christmas is just around the corner, and for many workplaces, the Christmas party is right around the corner.

Now, reactions to the Christmas party vary. Some people love it (and see it as their big chance to get something out the company, generally in the form of free beer or wine) and others hate it, writing it off as a few more hours they need to spend with their boss.

Whatever. As the boss, you’ve got to put on an enthusiastic smile and your dancing shoes and get ready to treat the Christmas party for what it is – a chance to thank your team for their hard work.

The best way to do this is to actually put some thought into what you are going to do at the party. Yes, they will all be expecting (and perhaps slightly dreading) your speech, but doing a little something extra will make the thank you a bit more memorable and meaningful.

If you’ve got some cash, actually get them a small gift (movie tickets, a bottle of wine), but make sure you present them personally.

If you’ve got less cash, fill a Santa sack with some novelty junk, and get everyone up individually for a bit of recognition and a lucky dip.

And if you’ve got no cash, why not create some fake awards (best provider of baked goods, most stylish, most cheerful) and give one out to everyone, complete with little certificates.

The point is, put some thought into it and your employees will appreciate this.

Get it done – today!