Ready to party for Leap Year? Do you have a special party or celebration planned, all to recognize the extra day we’re getting on Friday? If you’re like me, you’ve hardly thought about it, let alone planned anything in recognition. After all, it’s not as though my husband is sitting around making a wish list for a Leap Day present. And oddly, it hasn’t even occurred to my children to use Leap Day as an excuse to request more toys and games that they don‘t need. But Leap Year does present a special opportunity for some in the world of business. I was just reading about a company who gives each and every employee the day off on February 29. There’s only one catch. They have to spend the day doing volunteer work within the community. Some employees help out at a homeless shelter. Some spend the day assisting in retirement homes, hospitals or schools. The point of the day off is to encourage employees to be involved in the community and spend time giving to others. When I read about the program, I was impressed. The article quoted various professionals expressing enthusiasm for the program. They appreciated the fact that their company stood for something other than making money. I would imagine that it is also an excellent way to promote good will, and highlight the positive qualities of the company. So what does your office do? Do you have anything scheduled to recognize February 29? If not, what might you plan for the next Leap Year? If you can’t afford to give yourself and your employees the day off to perform good deeds, consider these options: - Pronounce this day as, “Carpool Day,” and organize driving pools. Perhaps some of the carpool groups will continue, even after the event passes.
- Emphasize exercise. Challenge your employees to try a new sport or activity during this month. Follow up with a small rewards party, and recognize special efforts made. This helps promote a healthy and active environment.
- Hire a yoga or pilates instructor to come in to the office. Let your staff learn simple relaxation and stress-relief moves. Treat them to a smoothie afterwards.
- Have a file and purge day. Let your staff report to work in casual gear, turn off the phones, and devote the entire day to cleaning files, de-cluttering work spaces and clearing out storage areas.
Even though Leap Year isn’t a regular holiday, it can serve as an opportunity to introduce and foster new and healthy ideas to your office community. By promoting unusual and creative activities, you can increase loyalty and enthusiasm among your staff, which can positively influence your company and the people within it. |
