The study also reveals that in the lead up to Christmas, Brits are not slowing down with six out of 10 (61%) sustaining productivity throughout the Christmas period, almost one-in-three (31%) working until Christmas Eve and just under a fifth (18%) planning to be in the office throughout the Christmas period.
Tom Hellier, Director at Willis Towers Watson comments: “The research’s overall message is that employees are not taking the foot off the pedal this Christmas, with most remaining productive and many working through the festive period. This perhaps reflects the nature of work in the UK, changing working patterns and an increase in the number of companies with a global footprint.”
Only 15% of Brits are offered bonuses over the Christmas period, a mere 8% have festive drinks in the office and just over one in 10 (13%) receive presents from employers or fellow employees. Furthermore, even the Christmas party tradition seems to be dwindling, with just under a quarter (24%) of companies throwing an office party for their employees this year.
Hellier continues: “It’s not that companies aren’t celebrating Christmas, many companies may be steering away from lavish Christmas parties, but a large number are changing their approach favouring charitable activities such as Christmas jumper day, which brings a sense of festive spirit into the workplace, allows everyone to take part, and gives back to their community.”
The research also looked at the festive perks that employees value from their company. Nearly a third (31%) would appreciate incentives at work, such as a Christmas bonus scheme, vouchers or presents and over a quarter (28%) would appreciate extra days off.
“It may not always be practical or affordable to give employees time off, but our research clearly shows that a flexible approach, allowing people to start earlier and finish later or vice versa, can really make a big difference at this time of year,” said Hellier. “Even a small gesture such as mince pies, can go a long way in supporting your company’s morale. After all no employer should be the Grinch at Christmas!”
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