Holiday schedules can be variable and chaotic and those without direct patient care responsibilities often take time off to be with their families. But, in healthcare organizations, of course, somebody needs to keep working to ensure that quality patient care continues.
I will never forget my first Christmas working the Christmas Eve shift miles away from my family. As one of 10 children in a very close family, no one – I mean no one had ever missed our sacredly guarded Christmas Eve tradition. Until me. It was a sad, strange and lonely feeling and honestly made me wonder why I had chosen a profession that would almost guarantee my absences for the rest of my working life. What pulled me out of my funk were two things. One was realizing that my patients surely were worse off than me and needed me to be focused on them. The other thing was seeing my director show up at 9:30 PM to personally thank us and bring us treats she had made for us.
Many of your staff members are working on holidays when their families are gathering to enjoy gifts, meals, and good company. Do you forget about them as you’re engaged in your own holiday activities—or do you take the time to make sure that you’re being mindful and appreciative of the sacrifices they’re making?
There are a number of things that you can do to help employees feel cared about while on the job. For instance:
- Drop in with treats or a hot meal. There’s really nothing that makes a greater impact than showing up in person. Bring along something employees are most likely to appreciate—a carafe or box of special coffee, fresh pastries, pizza. But most importantly, spend some time with them.
- Leave small gift bags in the break room. Think practical and personal, connecting your gifts to employees’ interests and personal needs. For instance, maybe a “holiday survival kit” with snacks, a small gift, and a personalized note for each team member.
- Write personal notes thanking them for being there for the patients who certainly don’t want to be hospitalized over the holidays. Go beyond the generic: “Thank you for working on New Year’s Eve,” to include personal notes and references: “I know you’re missing time with your grandkids. I hope you know how much your patients, and I, appreciate your being here for us.”
- Share stories from patients who express their appreciation. Gather input from patients and encourage them to recognize their caregivers as well. Personal patient stories really help employees feel the gratitude that exists for their efforts.
The good news? It doesn’t take grand gestures or cost a lot of many to make meaningful connections with employees over the holidays. Even small gestures can have a big impact. What matters most is showing up—and showing that you care.
How will you connect with your staff over the holidays while they’re caring for your patients and missing time with families and friends? Share in the comments.
Happy holidays!
