‘Tis the Season to Stay Professional During Festive Times
The holiday season brings unique energy to the workplace; year-end deadlines collide with celebrations, schedules shift, and teams try to balance festive cheer with professional expectations. It’s a time filled with opportunities for connection, but also with potential for missteps. Whether you work in person, in a hybrid model, or fully remote, practicing strong holiday-season work etiquette helps maintain professionalism, reinforce team spirit, and ensure everyone feels respected during a time that can be both joyful and stressful.
Be Inclusive. Recognize that not everyone celebrates the same traditions, and that some may not celebrate any holiday at all. Avoid making assumptions about colleagues’ beliefs, cultural backgrounds, or participation in seasonal activities. Inclusive language, such as “Happy Holidays” or “Hope you enjoy your break,” ensures everyone feels acknowledged without feeling singled out. Sensitivity and inclusivity set the tone for a respectful workplace.
Plan for Time Off and Workload Shifts. The end of the year often brings a rush of PTO requests as employees seek time with family or use accrued days. To keep workflows smooth, request time off early and communicate your plans clearly. Transparency is key. Update your calendar, confirm responsibilities before your break, and set a concise out-of-office message that includes alternate contacts. Thoughtful planning prevents communication breakdowns and supports colleagues during a busy time.
Be Professional and Productive. While enjoying the season is encouraged, professionalism shouldn’t take a vacation. Stay focused on meeting deadlines, attending meetings prepared, and closing out open projects before you go offline. If you know a deliverable may be affected by holiday disruptions, communicate early to reset expectations. Maintaining consistency helps teams finish the year strong and builds trust that celebrations won’t compromise performance.
Navigate Gift-Giving with Care. Gift-giving can be an enjoyable workplace tradition, but it’s also an area where etiquette matters. When gifting colleagues or managers, stick to modest, neutral items. Avoid gifts that are overly personal or potentially sensitive, such as fragrances, alcohol, or joke items.
Attend Holiday Events with Professional Conduct. Holiday gatherings can offer valuable opportunities to build relationships and unwind. Still, professionalism applies. RSVP promptly, dress appropriately, and participate in a way that reflects well on you and your team. If alcohol is served, moderation is essential to avoid awkward interactions or miscommunication. Keep conversations respectful and inclusive, and steer clear of sensitive topics that can escalate during social events. Remember: even in festive settings, you’re still representing yourself professionally.
Respect Boundaries. Respect colleagues’ right to unplug during PTO and avoid sending non-urgent messages after hours. Likewise, participation in themed events should always be optional. Leaders and peers can foster a healthier culture by normalizing different comfort levels and encouraging grace and patience during a hectic period.
Show Appreciation Thoughtfully. Whether you’re thanking a colleague for collaboration, acknowledging a manager’s support, or recognizing a team’s hard work, keep your message specific, sincere, and professional. Public shout-outs, hand-written cards, and brief appreciation emails can reinforce morale and strengthen relationships as the year closes.
The Bottom Line
The holiday season is more than a string of events. It is a chance to reflect, celebrate collective achievements, and set the stage for the new year. Practicing good business etiquette helps ensure that the season feels enjoyable rather than chaotic, inclusive rather than isolating, and respectful rather than rushed. By balancing celebration with responsibility and empathy, you help create a workplace culture that feels supportive, thoughtful, and connected—during the holidays and beyond.