It‰’s the unfortunate truth of the hospitality industry. In order for you to provide memorable experiences for holiday travelers, that means that a lot of people are going to have to work on days that they‰’d probably rather be spending with family. Just like any other day, your employees are in a customer service position and need to be in a good mood to give your guests the best experience. Here are a few ways to boost morale through the end of the year.

Be Accommodating

We know that managers generally try not to provide special favors for some employees and not others. However, if you hear that someone is truly having a difficult time making it to their shift, help to provide options to accommodate their schedule. Keep an ear out to learn about employees that are looking to pick up extra hours.

Pay a Special Visit

Your workers won‰’t be very motivated if they notice your absence during key days. Even if your shift manager has everything under control, drop in each day and express your appreciation of the staff taking care of your guests. This will also make handing out gifts or bonuses more meaningful by doing it in-person during your free time rather than when your schedules overlap.

Show Appreciation

Find times to provide a meal in the week leading up to the holidays to help boost everyone‰’s moods and give time for them to enjoy each other‰’s company. Provide the food rather than expecting everyone to bring a potluck dish, and try to choose times where shifts overlap so everybody gets to enjoy it. The gift will be even better if you man the front desk so no one gets left out.