As the holidays approach, staying ahead is crucial, even when you’re off on holiday. It makes returning to work after the holidays easier. While distractions like last-minute Christmas shopping or thoughts about hosting the family Christmas dinner may arise, having a plan at work for your festive break can alleviate some stress. This planning will hopefully allow you to enjoy the Christmas holidays with peace of mind.

Here is how we would prepare:

1. Schedule content:

Maintain momentum over Christmas to show that your company is still active. Plan your posts and schedule them for social media. Tools like LinkedIn offer options to choose the day and time for posting.

2. Prioritise your tasks:

Understandably, not all end-of-year tasks can be completed in time. If a specific client project won’t be ready before you’re out of the office, inform them in advance and agree on an appropriate time extension. Prioritise urgent projects to avoid working during the holidays. Avoid assigning colleagues tasks of lesser importance, especially if they are wrapping up essential projects.

3. Share the load:

While it’s common for employees to work long hours before the holiday break, it might not be necessary. Check with your supervisor and colleagues to delegate tasks. Ensure you share tasks with someone who has the time and knowledge to complete them. When delegating, provide detailed directions to avoid misunderstandings.

4. Remember to set your OOO:

Setting your Out of Office (OOO) message is crucial. It allows you to enjoy your time off without worrying about emails. It also informs recipients when you’re on leave and when they can expect a reply. If necessary, include your or a colleague’s contact details for emergencies.

5. Plan for when you come back:

After the festive season, have a solid post-Christmas marketing plan to keep your audience engaged. Amidst Christmas and New Year celebrations, a little forward-thinking now will benefit your future self. Note upcoming projects and draft your course of action for your return. The key is to plan and execute it promptly.