10 Tips to Help Your Team Thrive During the Festive Season

The festive season is one of the busiest and most exciting times of the year for hospitality venues. But with the hustle and bustle comes a unique set of challenges—higher guest volumes, stretched resources, and the pressure to deliver exceptional experiences at every turn.

To help you navigate the season with confidence and ease, here are 10 practical tips to keep your team motivated, your operations smooth, and your guests delighted.

1️. Plan Ahead, Plan Often

Preparation is key during the festive season. Create a detailed schedule for staff, events, and service needs. Anticipate peak periods and ensure you have enough coverage for every shift. A well-planned roster can make all the difference when the rush hits.

2️. Prioritise Communication

Keep everyone on the same page with clear, consistent communication. Daily briefings, updated schedules, and quick check-ins can help your team stay aligned and focused. Consider using team messaging tools or noticeboards for quick updates.

3️. Empower Your Middle Managers

Your middle managers are the backbone of smooth operations during busy times. Equip them with the tools and training they need to lead effectively, solve problems on the fly, and keep their teams motivated under pressure.

4️. Focus on the Guest Experience

Even during the busiest times, guests should feel prioritised. Encourage your team to focus on the little things—warm greetings, attentive service, and genuine care. These moments create lasting impressions and set your venue apart from the competition.

5️. Recognise and Reward Your Team

The festive season is demanding, and your team’s hard work deserves recognition. Small gestures like thank-you notes, staff shout-outs, or festive perks (like a complimentary meal or additional breaks) can boost morale and show your appreciation.

6️. Manage Stress Levels

A busy season can be overwhelming for your team. Encourage regular breaks, provide a supportive environment, and check in with your staff to ensure they’re coping well. A happy, healthy team is the key to happy guests.

7️. Prepare for Guest Complaints

With high volumes come increased chances of guest complaints. Train your team to handle these with empathy, professionalism, and a focus on resolving issues quickly. Empower them to make decisions that turn challenging moments into positive experiences.

8️. Keep the Energy Up

Long hours and busy shifts can drain energy fast. Surprise your team with some sweet treats in the staff room, and create a positive atmosphere with upbeat music, festive decorations, or friendly competitions to keep spirits high.

9️. Reflect and Improve

After each day or week, take time to reflect on what went well and what could be improved. Involving your team in this process helps identify solutions and builds a culture of continuous improvement.

10. Celebrate Together

When the season winds down, take a moment to celebrate the incredible effort your team put in. Whether it’s a staff party, a group outing, or a heartfelt thank-you speech, acknowledging their hard work leaves a lasting positive impact.

The festive season is an opportunity to create memorable experiences for your guests and build loyalty that lasts well into the new year. By planning ahead, supporting your team, and focusing on delivering exceptional service, your venue can not only survive the busy season but thrive in it.