1. Christmas Party: Free Food & Drinks
- Current Approach: Hosting a party with free food and drinks is an excellent way to build camaraderie and foster team spirit.
- Enhancements:
- Include a recognition element, such as awards or shoutouts for specific contributions (e.g., "Most Patient with Clients," "Team Spirit Award").
- Plan a fun activity, like a trivia game, Secret Santa, or a raffle with small prizes (e.g., gift cards, movie tickets, or wellness items like massage vouchers).
- Make it family-friendly if feasible, so employees with families feel included.
2. Bonuses: $100 Cash and a Card
- Current Approach: A $100 cash bonus and a personal card are appreciated, especially in a smaller behavioral health business.
- Enhancements:
- Consider a tiered system if feasible. For example:
- Full-time employees: $100+
- Part-time employees: $50-$75
- Add a handwritten, personal note in the card from you or a manager. Even a short, specific acknowledgment (e.g., "Thank you for your dedication to the kids we serve this year") can make the gesture more meaningful.
- If $100 cash feels low, consider alternatives like a $100 gift card to a popular local store or online retailer.
3. Additional Suggestions
- Wellness Gifts: Give employees something practical or stress-relieving, like a small self-care kit (candles, tea, a stress ball, or a cozy blanket). This aligns well with the behavioral health theme.
- Extra Time Off: If your business can accommodate it, offer an extra day or half-day off during the holiday season as a bonus. This is often more appreciated than cash.
- Team Donation: Make a small charitable donation in your team's name to a cause related to your business, such as youth mental health, and announce it at the party.
4. Long-Term Planning for Bonuses
- Set Clear Expectations: In the future, consider tying bonuses to company performance, tenure, or individual contributions. For example:
- Base bonuses on overall company revenue or profit (a percentage).
- Offer additional incentives like a small increase each year for loyal employees.
- Ask for Feedback: After the event, ask employees for input on what they enjoyed or what they'd like for future celebrations. This ensures you're meeting their expectations.
Your plan sounds solid and is in line with industry norms for a business of your size. The enhancements listed above can help make the gesture even more memorable while reinforcing your company culture.
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