Companies all over the world are realizing how important employee recognition is, and a growing number of organizations now offer formal recognition and reward programs. But recognition needs to be regular, meaningful, and varied. Annual employee awards used to be the thing … but now they’re just part of the package.
Research shows that monthly recognition motivates employees to work harder. Quarterly and annual recognition is appreciated too, but not as much. It also highlights the importance of recognizing employees in different ways, from verbal and written praise to monetary rewards and gifts.
The holiday season presents an excellent opportunity for employers to express their gratitude towards their workforce. Through a simple but thoughtful holiday message, you can increase employee morale, promote positive company culture, and demonstrate your appreciation for their hard work.
This guide addresses fundamental aspects of creating effective holiday messages for your staff members. We’re going to talk about why these messages matter and we’ll provide you with 20 meaningful holiday message examples. We will also offer some key strategies for effectively conveying your holiday messages to employees, thereby ensuring they make a lasting impact.
The Value of Being Recognized and Appreciated
According to Achievers Workforce Institute (AWI) research, at least 54% of companies globally and 50% in the U.S. have online recognition programs. Furthermore, 45% of U.S. employees say they receive (and want) social recognition at least once a month. The Gratitude Gap: 2023 State of Recognition Report illustrates the power of effective recognition platforms. It also shows how important it is for employees to be recognized frequently in a way that is “personal, specific, and impact-oriented.”
AWI also shows, in a shorter recognition guide, that the likelihood of employees repeating a behavior increases by 92% when they are acknowledged for it.
As Leeron Hoory says in a recent Forbes Advisor feature, Employee Recognition Ideas For 2023, we all like being recognized for effort and accomplishments. And employees who are appreciated and recognized are more likely to feel fulfilled and satisfied in their jobs. They’re also more likely to contribute more to the organization and stay longer.
A joint study between Gallup and Workhuman, Unleashing the Human Element at Work: Transforming Workplaces Through Recognition, highlights the importance of showing employees they are valued. Recognition is a simple way they can do this.
There are various ways you can recognize your employees, but public and private praise is one of the best, most reliable options. And there are many channels from which to choose, from one-to-one verbal messages or handwritten notes to internal company announcements. You can share messages via email, in your company newsletter, on social media platforms, on LinkedIn, or through a messaging app like Slack.
Praise is powerful, says Gallup, after finding that employees who weren’t praised or recognized in the past seven days were twice as likely to quit within the year.
The Importance of Holiday Messages for Your Employees
During the holiday season, it’s essential for organizations to extend heartfelt best wishes to their employees as a token of gratitude for their hard work. A holiday message to employees is one way to show how much they are valued, reminding them that their contribution to the enterprise’s success does not go unnoticed.
This simple gesture has the potential to enhance the morale of your staff, foster a favorable corporate culture, and perhaps even enhance your sales performance.
Unleashing the Human Element at Work: Transforming Workplaces Through Recognition states that when employee recognition is effective there are numerous benefits. Those organizations that don’t prioritize or invest in recognition are missing out big time. Key findings show that when recognition is effective:
- Productivity is improved with employees 73% less likely to frequently experience burnout.
- Employee turnover is reduced because 56% of employees are unlikely to be seeking new employment opportunities.
- Job satisfaction is enhanced and there is a 44% increase in the likelihood that employees will describe themselves as “thriving” in their overall life.
Furthermore, those who are recognized are:
- 5 times more likely to envision a future within the organization, making them less likely to leave.
- 5 times more likely to feel a strong connection to their workplace culture, which will foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
- 4 times more likely to be actively engaged in their work, showing a higher level of commitment and involvement.
“Recognition isn’t just a nice-to-have; it is a core ‘human’ element in the employee experience that drives engagement, performance and retention.”
Whatever sort of holiday message you opt for, it can create a significantly positive effect. It’s important for HR professionals to consider the impact of holiday messages, especially in a remote working scenario where everyone is fighting their own holiday blues.
The Value of Employee Appreciation during Holidays
Appreciating your employees and recognizing their dedication during the Christmas season is a powerful tool for professional development. It’s a time when everyone is looking forward to a deserved break. Therefore, a simple happy holiday message or a Christmas wish from the organization can help alleviate the stress and rejuvenate the employees for the year ahead.
Well-written, charming, and inspiring messages aimed at the holiday season can drive performance, increase employee engagement, and motivate employees to contribute their best. Employees who feel valued and recognized are more productive, which directly contributes to your firm’s sales performance. Gallup’s most recent (10th) employee engagement meta-analysis shows it results in 23% higher profitability and 18% higher productivity.
Moreover, sending a holiday message to employees is also an opportunity to share a brief platform overview, a recap of the year, or the ultimate guide for the holiday season ahead. This gives employees a perception of inclusion and being an integral part of the overall organization’s success.
Promoting a Positive Company Culture through Holiday Messages
Holiday messages should be more than just best wishes for a fabulous holiday season or a wonderfully happy new year. They provide an opportunity to reinforce your organization’s culture and values. A holiday message that aligns with your company’s identity can strengthen the bond between the organization and your employees.
For instance, if your company values teamwork highly, a holiday message can address all team accomplishments over the year. By doing so, you are accentuating the collective achievements of those in the team and reinforcing a sense of unity and camaraderie among your staff.
20 Impactful Examples of a Holiday Message to Employees
As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to prepare thoughtful holiday messages to employees. A well-crafted message can be a great way to show appreciation for their hard work throughout the year, sending a warm holiday sentiment, and boosting morale for the year ahead.
We’ve collated 20 diverse examples of a holiday message to employees. These examples vary from funny holiday messages to more heartfelt Christmas messages. By showcasing these examples, we hope to provide insight and inspiration when you craft your own unique holiday messages. Be sure to give messages your own voice and adopt a style that individual employees will appreciate and relate to.
Always start the message with the person’s name to increase that all-important personal touch. You can start a more formal greeting with Dear [Employee’s name], or simply say Hello [Employee’s name] or Hi [Employee’s name]. Again, be sure to take an approach that the person will relate to and appreciate.
Our Top 20 Examples
- Traditional greeting: “Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and peaceful holiday season. Thank you for your dedication and hard work throughout the year.”
- Personalized appreciation: “Your commitment to our team has made this year remarkable. May the holidays bring you happiness and relaxation.”
- Celebrating team efforts: “This holiday season we celebrate the incredible team that you are. Together, we’ve achieved great things. Happy holidays!”
- Gratitude for resilience: “In a year filled with challenges, your resilience has been our greatest asset. Wishing you a well-deserved break and a bright holiday season.”
- Community involvement: “As a part of our team, you’ve helped us make a positive impact on our community. Let’s continue to spread kindness and cheer this holiday season.”
- Reflecting on achievements: “Looking back, we’ve accomplished so much. May your holiday be as successful as our year together. Happy holidays!”
- Inspirational message: “The holiday season reminds us that even in the darkest moments, we can find light. Wishing you hope, joy, and peace.”
- Acknowledging diversity: “Our diverse team makes us stronger. Best wishes for a holiday filled with respect for all cultures and traditions.”
- Focusing on well-being: “This holiday season, prioritize self-care and spend quality time with loved ones. You’ve earned it!”
- Teamwork and unity: “United together we’ve achieved greatness. May this holiday season unite us even more in happiness and goodwill.”
- Encouraging creativity: “Get creative and embrace the holiday spirit. Let your imagination run wild… just as you do at work. Happy holidays!”
- Expressing empathy: “During the holidays, remember to be kind to yourself and others. We’re here to support one another. Happy holidays.”
- Digital cheers: “Though we’re apart, our virtual connection is strong. Let’s celebrate the season online and look forward to bright days ahead.”
- Recognizing dedication: “Your unwavering dedication is a gift to our organization. Enjoy this holiday season knowing how much you’re appreciated.”
- Acknowledging achievements: “We’ve reached new heights this year, and we couldn’t have done it without you. Here’s to further successes in the coming year.”
- Stress relief: “The holiday season is the perfect time to unwind and recharge. Take a well-deserved break and enjoy some relaxation.”
- Year-end reflection: “As we close the chapter on this year, let’s reflect on our accomplishments and set new goals for the year ahead. Happy holidays!”
- Safety and well wishes: “Stay safe and take care of your health during the holidays. Our best wishes go out to you and your family.”
- Leadership appreciation: “On behalf of the leadership team, we extend our heartfelt thanks for your dedication and contributions. Wishing you a joyful holiday season.”
- Looking forward: “As we bid farewell to this year, let’s welcome the new one with renewed energy and enthusiasm. Happy holidays, and here’s to a brighter future!”
10 Best Practices for Delivering Your Holiday Messages
The holiday season is always a wonderful time to express gratitude and recognition for employees’ hard work throughout the preceding year. Thoughtful holiday messages to employees can make a significant impact on morale, drive performance, and enhance the overall employee experience. Having the right holiday message can transform a beautiful season into an unforgettable experience for your workforce. Regardless of what you plan to say, here are 10 tips to help you deliver your message right.
1. Personalize Your Message
Personalizing your holiday message to employees goes a long way in making each one of them feel special and appreciated. A generic “happy holidays” might work, but a message tailored to each employee’s contribution to the company will work even better. In the case of a large organization, segmenting the messages by departments or teams could be a good alternative, even though it’s a compromise. Remember, a personalized wish can be the best Christmas gift for your employees.
2. Show Genuine Appreciation
Showing appreciation for your employees’ hard work should be the essence of any sincere holiday message. Whether you’ve seen a remarkable sales performance, a successful project completion, or simply an all-year-round dedication, make sure your Christmas messages acknowledge these positives and reinforce your recognition of their efforts. This practice can make each of your employees feel valued and ultimately enhance their professional development.
3. Keep it Positive and Uplifting
Every holiday season is intended to be a joyous occasion, and your holiday messages should reflect this. Keep the tone of your message positive and uplifting, and be sure to steer clear of any criticism or negative remarks. If you find it difficult to convey a positive, uplifting spirit, you might consider using a paraphrasing tool to help you. Here’s hoping that your positive message helps reduce the holiday blues amongst your employees and make their season super-happy this year.
4. Reflect on the Past Year
Ensuring your holiday message includes a reflection on the past year can make it seem more thoughtful and meaningful. Which is what it should be. This can include company-wide achievements, significant milestones, or a short reflection on improvements within the company. Also, it’s the perfect time to share your plans for the year ahead to keep them motivated and involved.
5. Don’t Forget Humor
A well-conceived funny holiday message can lighten the mood and make the holiday season more enjoyable for your employees. A great holiday message could involve a joke, a funny anecdote from the past year, or even a pun about the company or the industry. This adds a personal touch and can make the holiday message more engaging.
6. Include All Celebrations
Ensure your holiday message doesn’t just focus on Christmas. Remember, your workforce might be celebrating various holidays around this time of the year. So, make sure your holiday wishes encompass all celebrations to make every employee feel included. Also, you don’t want to send Christmas messages to those who don’t celebrate Christmas. If this is the case, rather stick to a holiday message that wishes them a happy new year.
7. Plan Ahead
Don’t leave your holiday message to the last minute. Plan ahead to ensure your message is well thought out, meaningful, and delivered on time. Planning ahead gives you ample time to craft thoughtful messages that resonate with your employees.
8. Include a call to action
Include a call-to-action (CTA) in your holiday message, encouraging your employees to take a well-deserved break, switch off from work, and spend quality time with their families. This is likely to help them return to work refreshed and recharged, ready to drive performance in the coming year.
9. HR Professionals Must Communicate Efficiently
HR professionals play a crucial role in communicating the holiday message to employees. It’s always a good practice to use internal communication software to monitor employee feedback on your messages. Its platform overview and case studies can guide you in understanding the employee sentiments and reactions to your holiday messages.
10. Proofread Before Sending
Before you hit that send button, check every message for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. Accurate messages reflect professionalism and respect for the recipient. So, ensure your holiday message is proofread – perhaps even multiple times – to avoid any embarrassing mistakes. If you don’t do it yourself, make sure someone with excellent language skills does it for you.
Implementing the Best Practices for the Holiday Season
Establishing a tradition of extending a holiday message to employees is a powerful way to boost morale, acknowledge their hard work, and set the tone for the year ahead. It’s a unique opportunity to drive performance by enhancing the overall employee experience, leaving your staff with a wonderful holiday feeling that transcends the usual festive cheer.
Whether you opt for a funny holiday message or a more traditional warm holiday greeting, it can both play an important role in creating that well-deserved break feeling. Moreover, a thoughtful holiday message can help prevent any chance of holiday blues, creating a great sense of community during the Christmas season. Here’s hoping this will set the stage for a great holiday followed by a productive year ahead.
Sales performance and professional development can also be influenced by the success of your holiday messages. So, let’s explore how HR professionals can optimize holiday messaging.
Choosing the Right Platform to Deliver Your Holiday Message
Delivering a happy holiday season message works best when you choose the right platform. Cerkl Broadcast could be an excellent tool to deliver that Christmas message or even a general happy holidays announcement.
A great holiday season message, when conveyed through a platform like Broadcast, can boost employee morale and improve the work environment. So, whether it’s Christmas wishes, gifts, new year thoughts, or any other holiday messages you plan to send, make sure your platform supports your effort.
Of course, the right platform will vary based on the size of your organization, the nature of your business, and the type of message you want to convey.
Timely Delivery of Holiday Messages
As with all important messages and communications, timeliness is critical when delivering holiday messages. The delivery of your message should coincide with the beginning of the festive season, giving employees plenty of time to digest and appreciate it.
A holiday message delivered too late or too early might come across as an afterthought and it will probably lack impact as a result. After all, you want your employees to feel appreciated, celebrated, and motivated for the festive season ahead. You don’t want them to think your wishes are insincere.
If you aren’t sure about when to send your holiday message, ask around and get a sense of when others in your industry or geographical location typically send their messages. This could be a great way to ensure your message is timely and appropriate.
Ensuring the Holiday Message is Accessible to All Employees
One of the best practices involves making sure that your holiday message is accessible to all employees. This inclusivity not only promotes equal employee recognition but also fosters a sense of unity, casting a positive light on the holiday season. At the same time, unless yours is a relatively small organization, it pays to segment your audience to ensure that messages are sent to the right people at the right time.
From your dedicated sales team to your behind-the-scenes IT staff, everyone deserves a meaningful holiday message. This inclusivity can be a vital part of your strategy for the holiday season ahead as well as a wonderful way to balance the often hectic Christmas season.
So, whether it’s through email, company-wide newsletters, or messages on the intranet, ensure your holiday messages reach everyone. The feeling of inclusion will be sure to enhance the holiday spirit and the festive mood within your organization.
What Can Cerkl Broadcast Do For You?
Cerkl Broadcast has a versatile suite of internal communication software suitable for all organizations, regardless of size and structure. Designed for internal communicators and HR professionals, it serves as a central hub for all communication assets. It ensures that communicators can easily access and manage information, making planning considerably more effective at any time of the year.
Broadcast’s omnichannel capability is particularly effective. What it does is remove the need to select the right channels for most comms. Instead, your audience can select the channels they prefer to use. This means all employees can access comms wherever they are, on-site, in a remote location, or even in another country. So, whether they are remote employees or staff members who usually work in the office but are away for the holiday season, you’ll have them all covered.
A great advantage of the Cerkl Broadcast platform is that it offers customizable templates. These simplify the creation of consistent, professional-looking content for the communication plan. You can build your own from a drag-and-drop starter pack, or the Cerkl team can build templates for you. So, you can build a newsletter or card that contains holiday messages to employees. It also allows you to segment your audience based on criteria including department, role, or location.
What’s Next?
There’s not much time left to get your holiday messages to employees for this year in place. But setting up the Cerkl Broadcast platform doesn’t take long, and you’ll find it can help you more than you can imagine. This step could be your best Christmas gift!
FAQ
During the holiday season, you should express your appreciation to employees for their hard work and dedication throughout the year. Offer warm holiday wishes and convey your hopes for a joyful and restful break.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas filled with joy, warmth, and well-deserved relaxation. May this festive season bring you and your loved ones happiness and peace.
You can communicate holiday plans to your team by sending a clear and concise email or message that outlines any changes in work schedules, office closures, or special seasonal arrangements. Ensure that all team members are informed well in advance, providing them with ample time to adjust their own plans accordingly.
