Celebrating Your Employees, Subcontractors, and Clients This Holiday Season

These past few years have been a challenging and stressful time for many in the construction industry as we faced the rise of material prices, supply chain issues, lack of skilled labor, and trying to stay healthy. This has forced many contractors to see the value in relationship building and the need for more transparency and communication throughout the building process. As you ponder everything your company went through this year, it's a great time to remember all the people who helped make the year a success.

Regardless of your beliefs, most of us agree that the atmosphere is quite different during this time of year—a feeling of lightheartedness. You may have some time off work, gatherings with family and friends, and extra appreciation for those you have worked with. Below are some ways to show appreciation for your employees, subcontractors, and clients during this holiday season.

Your Employees

For many, simple personal touches can make all the difference. A joyfully decorated office can set the atmosphere for a holiday lunch or happy hour. A larger conference room or restaurant for an elegant dinner or holiday party with spouses is always a nice touch. A year-end recognition video highlighting major achievements and celebrating individuals and teamwork can make your employees feel important. Lightening one's workload or encouraging time off can open up additional family time. For gifts or bonuses, add a handwritten personal note showing your appreciation in the attached Christmas card. Don’t give away a fruitcake.

Your Subcontractors

Although Christmas cards and candy are the industry norm, you may have subcontractors who seem as close as your own employees. Inviting subcontractors to certain company functions may be a good fit, especially for those who have been working alongside your employees throughout the year. A dinner party with the business owners can be a great way to show the business relationship is valued.

Your Clients

You should also remember your clients during the holiday season. A hand-delivered gift with a thank-you note can be a nice personal touch. One gift idea is a photo album of the construction project from start to finish. Recognizing your client on your website or taking out an ad in a local newspaper for a new business in the area can help that business get off the ground.

To all those individuals and companies I have connected with as Acuity’s Construction Consultant, I wish you the best this holiday season!