Is the Spirit of Christmas Alive in Your Workplace This Holiday Season?

The holidays are a time for joy, celebration, and togetherness. But in the hospitality industry, Christmas Day often looks a little different.

While the world slows down to share meals and open gifts, hotels, restaurants, and resorts are bustling with guests eager to make the season magical. This unique dynamic puts the industry in a rare position: We’re not just observing the holidays—we’re delivering them.

As someone who has spent years in hospitality, I see Christmas Day as both a challenge and an opportunity. Yes, it’s one of the busiest days of the year. Yes, it demands emotional labor, long hours, and an unwavering smile.

But it’s also a powerful moment to reflect on what truly makes hospitality exceptional: the ability to create joy, even when we’re not part of the celebration.

The “Why” Matters: Leading with Purpose

There’s a popular saying: “Christmas isn’t a season; it’s a feeling.” As leaders, our role is to cultivate that feeling for our guests and our teams. The secret lies in leading with purpose. Do your team members understand why their work matters, especially on days like Christmas?

Purpose-driven leadership is about more than assigning shifts and checking boxes. It’s about showing employees the impact of their work—helping a family create lasting memories, delivering a meal that brings comfort, or simply providing a space where guests feel at home.

Operational Efficiency Meets Emotional Connection

Operationally, Christmas Day is a masterclass in planning and adaptability. Every detail counts, from ensuring enough staff coverage to creating festive experiences for guests. Yet, in the hustle, it’s vital not to lose sight of the emotional connections that underpin great service.

Consider this: Employees working on Christmas aren’t just showing up for work—they’re sacrificing time with loved ones. Acknowledging this sacrifice through small gestures, like surprise treats, handwritten thank-you notes, or team celebrations, can foster a sense of belonging.

Psychological Safety: The Ultimate Gift

One leadership concept particularly relevant during the holidays is psychological safety. When teams feel safe to express their emotions, raise concerns, or share feedback, they perform better and experience less stress. This is especially crucial on high-pressure days like Christmas.

Encourage open communication during pre-shift briefings. Check in with team members throughout the day. And remember, a leader’s presence isn’t just logistical—it’s emotional. Be visible. Be approachable. Be empathetic.

The Hospitality Takeaway

Hospitality is about more than service; it’s about heart. On Christmas Day, the way we treat our employees is as important as the way we treat our guests. By leading with empathy, creating psychological safety, and celebrating purpose, we can ensure the spirit of Christmas thrives—not just in our guest spaces, but in our teams as well.

To All My Fellow Hospitality Leaders

Let’s make this holiday season a testament to the strength, resilience, and joy of our industry. After all, as the saying goes, “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.”

Let’s lead loudly, lovingly, and intentionally. Merry Christmas to all! ??

#HospitalityLeadership #EmotionalLabor #PsychologicalSafety #HolidayMagic #ChristmasInHospitality #EmployeeEngagement #ServiceExcellence #LeadershipWithHeart #HospitalityIndustry #CustomerExperience