Most of us who have the privilege to be able to keep our jobs (and are likely working from home) during this global pandemic feel pretty darn lucky. Many who are working from home even prefer it! But with the holidays approaching, it got us thinking about the parties we are going to miss out on this year -- the ones we liked going to, and the ones, as HR, we hated planning. This year, it is a different conversation and it goes something like this: how can we, as leaders, create meaningful conditions of connection? How do we celebrate together without overwhelming each other? What kind of connection do people need or expect? Great. This planning seems EVEN harder than chicken, fish or vegan!

Key Takeaways:

• Find ways to provide different options for people to participate, so it’s not simply another large virtual gathering. Maybe it’s an opportunity to try something new that always got ex-nayed in the past.
• If you are organizing a company holiday activity, make it truly optional! That also means no judgy judgerson if employees don’t show up.
• As the pandemic and the safety protocols have continued, we just may miss the holiday party more than we anticipated. Bah, COVIDbug.

Holiday Bonus Takeaway:

• Sarah makes delicious Nanaimo Bars!! She uses sea salt on the top...amazing!