Happy Holidays: 4 Ways Startups Can Incorporate Fun + Productivity

How many of us love a little holiday fun at work? While startups are known to be workaholics, it’s a tad bit difficult to deny the excitement of decorations, costumes, candy, and a ton of festive décor with the holidays right around the corner. Along with everything else, this year’s holiday celebrations will be a bit different due to COVID-19, but the festive season offers your team a fun (virtual) outing to look forward to. Keep your work environment exciting and productive with these 4 tips.  

Create a themed project or task for your team members to complete 
The task shouldn’t be daunting or super simple – it should be on par with your typical workload, but a little more fun. For instance, if your team delivers a report or analysis weekly, offer an opportunity for each member to share their plans for the holiday season. Or, send each of your team members a festive e-card with the calendar invitation.  

Encourage your team to regularly take vacation time off  
Nothing is better than a company that’s mastered a healthy balance between “work and play”. It’s easy to get distracted when the holidays start approaching, so ensuring that everyone is on task and meets their deliverables naturally allows for more flexibility. Encourage your team to stay focused while reminding them to use their time off and enjoy their hobbies outside of work.  

Start work hobbies for team members  
Work hobbies are not only awesome during the holidays, they’re perfect all year long. Maybe a portion of the team enjoys reading books, while the others like to discuss sports or activities they enjoy. For the holidays, start a Slack channel to discuss all things holiday décor, from yard displays to window treatments. This is a small activity with the power to develop and strengthen relationships, especially if your team is working from home.  

Already back in the office? Decorate your space  
Depending on your company, there’s a possibility you’re back at work and need to spruce up the environment with a festive look. Adding decorations to the work space can keep comradery high and fun, to say the least. It doesn’t need to be much – add some pumpkins around the space and offer pumpkin spiced flavored coffee for the early risers.  
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It’s important to create a balance and connect with your team, especially during the holidays. Using these 4 tips can provide some excitement and ways to connect with your team and customers.  

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