How to bring the holiday spirit to the office

December: the smell of gingerbread and pine needles fills the air and the numerous twinkling lights create a festive atmosphere. Why not bring that cosiness to the office? Thibaut Margery, facility manager at staffing specialist Robert Walters, shares 7 fun ways to embrace the holiday spirit together with your colleagues.  

Enchanting decorations 

Thibaut: "Transform the office into a winter wonderland by decorating the space together with fairy lights, glittering ornaments and colourful garlands. Fancy some competition? Organise a game between teams for the best decoration and provide a fun prize for the winners, for example a bottle of mulled wine or a Christmas rose" 

Ugly Christmas sweaters

"This year, 15 December is Ugly Christmas Sweater Day, a day when everyone is invited to come to work in their most striking, funny or cute Christmas sweats," says Thibaut. "On that day, also provide some accessories such as hats, glasses and bows and make it a fun photo shoot. This is a great way to have a laugh and get into the festive mood already." 

No holiday season without presents 

"Let everyone participate in a gift exchange. Agree on a maximum amount for the parcels, and completely unleash your inner Secret Santa. The joy of giving and receiving small gifts creates a warm feeling of togetherness, which completely embodies the holiday spirit," says Thibaut. 

Festive meal 

Thibaut: "Plan a delicious holiday lunch at the office. Provide non-alcoholic bubbles or a mocktail, and let everyone bring their favourite holiday dish to share, so you can gather at a table full of delicacies. Of course, Christmas music should not be missing during this festive lunch!" 

Christmas games 

"Are you taking time for a real holiday party at the office? Then organise fun holiday games, such as a holiday quiz or bingo. It will undoubtedly provide a good dose of fun and teambuilding," Thibaut knows.

Going out together 

"Visit a local winter market together, or take time for a walk with colleagues in the nearby park or city centre," advises Thibaut. "This is a nice way to relax for a while, enjoy the outdoors and admire the beautiful decorations in the neighbourhood. Bring thermos cups with coffee, tea or hot chocolate and enjoy a nice hot drink together during the walk. Cosiness galore!" 

Share the warmth 

"Embrace the true spirit of the holidays by organising a fundraiser for a good cause. This can range from food and clothing collections to supporting local charities. Committing to charity together will give you and your colleagues a sense of togetherness and satisfaction," concludes Thibaut.

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