‘Tis the Season Leadership Tips by Stephen Mazzone

As a leader, it’s essential to be mindful that work doesn’t stop during the holidays. Your team has worked hard all year long. Amongst all the upcoming holiday festivities, it’s a good idea to review some of the best leadership tips and management advice to help you stay focused on both your employee’s happiness and also reaching your business goals for the year.

• Stress Less

Successful leaders don’t let the stress of the holiday season get in the way. This is the perfect time to test your emotional intelligence, gauge your behaviors, and become fully aware of how to take a mindful break to collect your thoughts before moving forward. Don’t forget to check in on your employees as well, and be sure you are supporting them if the stress of the holiday season is impacting their day to day work life.

• Be Positive & Motivating

Praise your employees’ accomplishments for the year to maintain a positive and motivating work environment year-end. Encourage your team through public praise, team meetings, or over a holiday lunch or party. Corporate events are a great way to celebrate your employee’s hard work, connecting with your team outside of the office, and make a positive impression in a more relaxed setting. This is also a great time to spread joy and excitement for upcoming plans and any positive changes that may be taking place for the New Year.

• Set a Clear Schedule

The holiday season brings lots of days out of the office, which means productivity may fall if there isn’t a clear cut schedule in place. It can also be challenging juggling both work and personal commitments, so as a leader, it’s essential to be flexible, plan accordingly, and lead by example. Some leaders may even discourage the use of paid time off during this time due to the limited about of workdays already available.

• Give Back

Giving back is a crucial way a company can make a difference in their community. Whether you choose to participate in a large organization or something on a smaller scale, leaders should create ways to give back and provide opportunities for your employees to join in as well.

• Take Time to Reflect

This time of the year is great to reflect on your career. Think of what may be blocking your focus or energy. What’s driving your purpose and passion at work? Set goals for the year ahead, and don’t stress about not meeting this year’s goals. There’s always room for improvement as a successful leader.

Originally published on StephenMazzone.org