The Role of Festive Cheer in the Workplace

As the year winds down, many workplaces across New Zealand are preparing for the festive season, often reflected through decorations, themed events, and shared celebrations. While the topic may seem light-hearted, it reveals deeper insights into workplace culture, employee satisfaction, and productivity.

In a recent survey, nearly half of New Zealand workers expressed their enthusiasm for personalising their desks with festive decorations. Such activities, they believe, can enhance their work environment and even boost productivity. This trend aligns with broader workplace findings, such as last year’s data showing over a quarter of Kiwi employees felt they would work better if allowed more casual, comfortable attire—like shorts. These small but meaningful expressions of individuality and comfort play a surprising role in maintaining morale, particularly during the year's final stretch when energy levels often dwindle.

It’s not just about aesthetics, though. Workplace decorations often serve as a unifying element, fostering a sense of togetherness among colleagues. In environments where end-of-year deadlines can heighten stress levels, incorporating light-hearted traditions can create opportunities for bonding and relaxation. This sense of community plays a critical role in maintaining positive morale, ensuring teams remain engaged and motivated during one of the busiest periods of the year.

“When employees feel at home in their workspace, it can genuinely bring out their best."

In Frog Recruitment's recent NZ Market Update, Shannon Barlow, Managing Director at Frog Recruitment, shed light on how workplaces can balance end-of-year pressures with lighter, morale-boosting activities. “We’ve endured a challenging year,” she remarked, “but reaching December is an achievement in itself. Now’s the time to embrace a touch of light-heartedness.” This sentiment echoed throughout the session, as Barlow reflected on the survey results and their implications for workplace culture.

Barlow shared the survey’s revelation that nearly half of respondents believe decorating their workspaces allows them to express their unique styles while fostering productivity. She elaborated, “When employees feel at home in their workspace, it can genuinely bring out their best.” Drawing connections to previous findings, she highlighted how seemingly small changes, like relaxed dress codes or festive décor, can have a significant impact on worker satisfaction.

The discussion also highlighted the need for balance. While festive cheer can invigorate teams, it’s crucial to approach it thoughtfully, ensuring inclusivity and respect for diverse beliefs. “It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and can participate in a way that resonates with them,” Barlow explained. For many, these gestures of consideration signal that their unique perspectives are recognised and appreciated, which is a cornerstone of a thriving workplace culture.

Amid discussions, the idea of encouraging desk decorations emerged as not merely a nod to individuality but a strategic way to combat the traditional end-of-year slowdown. Barlow noted with a smile, “Perhaps the secret to productivity in December isn’t just festive cheer but putting up a tree and baring the knees.” This light-hearted suggestion captured the update’s overarching theme: fostering an environment where employees feel comfortable, valued, and energised during a typically stressful time of the year.

By combining a dose of festive spirit with thoughtful planning, workplaces can create an uplifting environment to end the year on a high note. As Shannon Barlow aptly noted, embracing light-hearted traditions can be a meaningful way to connect with employees and energise teams. Whether it’s tacky tinsel or bougie baubles, small efforts can go a long way in boosting morale and productivity.

Advice for Celebrating Safely and Inclusively

For those considering how to navigate the festive season in their workplaces, there are several ways to ensure celebrations are both enjoyable and inclusive:

1. Encourage Workplace Decorations with Guidelines
   Allow employees to personalise their spaces with holiday decorations. Establish guidelines to maintain inclusivity and ensure everyone feels welcome to participate.
   
   
2. Plan Thoughtful End-of-Year Events
   Organise gatherings that are accessible to all employees. This could include daytime activities or virtual options for hybrid teams.
   
   
3. Maintain Professional Boundaries During Celebrations
   Encourage festive fun but be mindful of maintaining a professional atmosphere, especially during office parties. Ensure managers lead by example.
   
   
4. Foster Open Communication
   Create a space for employees to share their preferences and ideas for celebrating. This ensures everyone feels included in the planning process.
   
   
5. Leverage Festive Activities to Boost Morale
   Use team-based activities like decoration contests or shared lunches to build camaraderie and energise staff as the year wraps up.

Find the job you love I Find the right talent
Get in touch with Frog Recruitment
Auckland  I  Wellington

In business since 2002 in New Zealand, Frog Recruitment is an award-winning recruitment agency with people at our heart. Located across Auckland and Wellington, we specialise in accounting and finance, business support, education, executive, government, HR, legal, marketing and digital, property, sales, supply chain, and technology sectors. As the proud recipients of the 2024 RCSA Excellence in Candidate Care Award, we are dedicated to helping businesses achieve success through a people-first approach.