The stressors faced by Hospitality staff
Increased workload
Christmas brings a surge in customers, resulting in longer working hours, intense multitasking, and heightened pressure for the staff. This can be physically and mentally exhausting.
Emotional and mental toll
Dealing with demanding customers, handling stressful situations, and managing heightened expectations can take a toll on the emotional and mental wellbeing of hospitality staff. The constant need to keep a friendly and professional attitude, even in challenging situations, can be draining.
Lack of personal time
Working during the festive season often means missing out on personal celebrations and quality time with family and friends. This sacrifice can affect an employee’s work-life balance and overall wellbeing.
Loneliness
For those who are alone, the Christmas festivities can be all the more poignant, making it extremely difficult to navigate those feelings of loneliness.
How management and organizations can support their staff
Adequate staff levels
To alleviate the pressure on employees, management must ensure adequate staffing levels during the Christmas period. Proper staffing can improve service quality, reduce burnout, and enhance employee morale.
Flexible schedules
Offering flexible scheduling options allow employees to better manage their work-life balance. By accommodating their personal needs and holiday commitments, management can reduce stress and improve overall job satisfaction.
Employee recognition
Recognising and appreciating the hard work of staff during this busy time is crucial. This can take the form of bonuses, rewards, or even simple gestures of gratitude. Employee recognition boosts morale and motivation.
Mental Health services
The Christmas period can be emotionally taxing. Offering Mental Health Services, to your employees such as EAPs, can provide staff with the necessary support for coping with stress, anxiety, and mental health issues. These services can be a lifeline for those struggling during the holiday rush. If you already have an EAP in place, this should be heavily promoted to hospitality staff during this period.
How CiC can support Hospitality organisations during and beyond Christmas
Provision of an EAP
CiC offers Employee Assistance Programmes that provide comprehensive mental health support for employees. By partnering with CiC, organisations can ensure that their staff have access to industry leading professional counselling and resources to manage stress and maintain their wellbeing.
Training and webinars
We can conduct training sessions and webinars for employees and management, focusing on stress management and creating a supportive work environment. These educational resources empower staff with valuable coping strategies.
Organisational Risk Assessment
CiC can assist organisations in conducting a risk assessment with a focus on specific periods of difficulty, such as Christmas. Identifying potential stressors and challenges allows you to implement targeted solutions that support their staff.
In conclusion, while the Christmas season can be a bustling and lucrative time for the hospitality industry, it is crucial for management and organisations to recognise and address the stressors faced by their employees. By ensuring adequate staffing, offering flexible schedules, recognising employee efforts, and providing access to mental health services such as EAPs, businesses can foster a supportive and nurturing work environment. Moreover, partnering with organisations like CiC can be a valuable step in mitigating these stressors and ensuring that the festive season remains a time of joy for both customers and the dedicated staff who make it all possible.