‘Tis the Season for Diversity

Tasked with organizing your company’s holiday party?

Be careful to keep in mind not everyone celebrates the same holidays. In December alone, there’s Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa and Ashura. 

With more employees from different faiths and backgrounds, companies may be excluding key people without even realizing.

Try these guidelines to create an event that will leave everyone feeling festive.

Sarah Hill, Ceridian Company’s chief HR officer, recommends keeping decor non- specific. “Shoot for things like snowmen, icicles, candy canes and other seasonal items that don’t lend themselves to any particular religion or practice,” says Hill.

Avoid playing holiday music continuously. Try classical or jazz for a universal feel. Internet radios make this increasingly easy and take pressure off the DJ.

“Offer a variety of holiday events for employees to choose from such as meeting in a conference room, having a meal, or a cake and coffee hour,” suggests Halley Bock, CEO of Fierce Inc, an executive coaching firm. Most importantly, make these activities voluntary for everyone.

Make food pleasing for every palate. Serve a variety of food, along with traditional Christmas fare, recommends Bock. You can also encourage people to share seasonal recipes they enjoy.

“Avoid being the sole decision maker for holiday events,” suggests Bock. “Get input from those who wish to participate to ensure that everyone feels you value their opinion now and throughout the year.”

Make an extra effort to get ideas from a racially and ethnically diverse group of employees.

Holidays are the best time to share your culture, and learn about others’.

Bonus PINK Link: Check out our boss-appropriate gift guide.

What are your suggestions to include everyone during holidays?

By Sonya Washington

“A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue but the parent of all other virtues.”  Cicero