Startup Employee Retention: Don’t Be a Scrooge

How can management teams at expansion stage companies best manage their teams for success around the holidays? I came across a blog recently on one of my favorite HR related websites, TLNT.com. The site shares some great ideas to help managers keep their teams both productive and happy throughout the holiday season.

How Not to be a Scrooge

Control what you can control – Around the holidays, some things will be out of your control. Prepare for this reality by working with your team to make sure that anyone who will be out for vacation signs off on everything for which they are responsible, or has passed along their duties to someone else during their absence. If an issue arises, know that it may take longer than normal to resolve due to a decreased staff, both at your company and at those on which you rely to help yours run smoothly.

Use December to find balance – This may entail committing to leave work every day on time, or arriving at work early some days so you can leave earlier. This may also mean not worrying as much about the “little” things, and hunkering down to get done what is needed. December is also a great time to reflect on the year of business and what you’re happy with, and what you are looking forward to in 2011. Use this time to recharge and find some balance in order to prepare for the year ahead.

Spend some time with your employees – This is a great time to catch up with your employees to discuss both work (how they are performing, how they are enjoying their job, etc.) and non-work related matters. Try to, at least, have a brief conversation with every person you manage. This can go a long way in terms of your startup employee retention. Show your employees you care about their lives both inside and outside of the office.

How do you manage your teams for success (and less stress) around the holidays?