The Weekly Culture Update
So, as you know, we’ve invited you to a Holiday Party. Was that a good idea? Let’s see what the all-knowing and all-powerful Google says.
At first glance, the Internet’s perspective isn’t very positive:
People don't mingle – they stick with the people they know
Not everyone is comfortable crossing the work-personal life boundary
Many employees would prefer time off than going to an office party
It can be a stressful and awkward situation, particularly for introverts
It’s really embarrassing when the boss can’t dance
And there have been some epically bad Holiday parties. The most controversial being the one in Die Hard. Debating the validity of this as a Christmas movie is more divisive than whose grandmother makes the better shortbread (mine).So, as you know, we’ve invited you to a Holiday Party. Was that a good idea? Let’s see what the all-knowing and all-powerful Google says.
At first glance, the Internet’s perspective isn’t very positive:
People don't mingle – they stick with the people they know
Not everyone is comfortable crossing the work-personal life boundary
Many employees would prefer time off than going to an office party
It can be a stressful and awkward situation, particularly for introverts
It’s really embarrassing when the boss can’t dance
And there have been some epically bad Holiday parties. The most controversial being the one in Die Hard. Debating the validity of this as a Christmas movie is more divisive than whose grandmother makes the better shortbread (mine).
(See what I mean?)
Of course, you can embrace these challenges, put in some effort and deliberately throw the worst holiday party ever:
Create the cheesiest and most clichéd invitation you can.
Buy your decorations from the dollar store and be sure to include random Disney stuff – like princesses and toys.
Canned cocktail wieners, Cheez Whiz and edibles
An upcycling gift swap
Music courtesy of the Chipmunk’s Christmas Album
Hold it on a weekend
The reasons to host a Holiday Party come down to two: momentum and culture. The fact that you are having a party shows that the business is doing well. (Of course, if this year’s party is a downgrade from last year’s party, conclusions will be drawn.)
Culture is more interesting. There are many documented benefits of a strong culture. Forbes magazine provides some insight. A company with a positive culture will attract the type of talent that is willing to make their next workplace a home, rather than just a stepping-stone. Employees are much more likely to stay with their current employer and come together as a team. Employees tend to be more motivated and dedicated.
Culture creates less stressed employees, which helps boost both employee health and work performance.
What’s not to love? Getting there is easy to say, but harder to implement.
Employee wellness (physical and emotional) is the foundation of your corporate culture.
Meaning and purpose are more important in the workplace than ever.
Your workplace needs positivity.
Listening is critical. According to research gathered by CultureIQ, 86% of employees at companies with strong cultures feel their senior leadership listens to employees, as compared to 70% of employees at companies without strong culture.
A great first step is to find the culture champions who embody the values and missions of your organization today. They are excited to promote your aspirations and encourage others to do the same. Identify these changemakers and encourage them to keep spreading the cheer.
Many of these principles are as relevant during COVID, but one more stands out. Above all, don’t lose sight of the importance of fun in building a community. Having fun together and sharing laughs as a team during difficult times forges the bonds that will see your organization through these times and beyond. Having fun together builds trust, and trust builds loyalty.
Stay safe.