Planning what food to serve at employee gatherings can be equal parts fun and stressful. About 1 in 10 Americans have food allergies, according to Food Allergy Research & Education. Gallup's latest Consumption Habits poll reveals 4 percent of Americans say they are vegetarian, and 1 percent say they are vegan, in terms of their eating preferences. It's also essential to consider individuals with religious dietary restrictions.
Ultimately, employers want to host an event everyone enjoys. Food plays a central role in achieving that goal. Two certified meeting planners offer tips HR leaders can consider to ensure there's something on the menu for everyone, whether it's a winter celebration or a midyear staff meeting.
Food for Thought: Planning Inclusive Menus for Holiday Staff Gatherings
SHRM | Oct 2023
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TimeAndDate: December 2024 | January 2025 | February 2025
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Start by informing yourself about the demographic breakdown of employees at your organization. Exactly what holidays you select, said James, will depend on your goals and who your employees and customers are. If a company relies on the Latinx community, for example, he’d advise choosing holidays that mean something to them.
But you should be careful to avoid assumptions about what holidays matter to individual employees. Your team members may come from diverse family backgrounds or may hold personal commitments to inclusivity, for example.
How to Incorporate DEI Holidays for a More Inclusive Workplace
Lattice | Feb 2024
Manufacturers may understandably wonder how they can realistically plan an inclusive event that will be well-received by all employees. One of the best ways to achieve this goal is by involving employees and human resources in this process, as well as any leaders and employees who are engaged in or lead the company’s diversity and inclusion efforts.
Embracing Inclusivity in the Workplace This Holiday Season
Robinson + Cole | Dec 2023
For real inclusivity, a little thoughtfulness goes a long way. Keeping the focus of your inclusive holiday party on the people that make your company tick makes this party both fun and rewarding.
11 Ways to Throw a More Inclusive Holiday Party
Power to Fly | Nov 2023
Be intentional with the language surrounding your company's holiday celebration and include opportunities for cultural education. One of our favorite ways to learn more about our teammates is through potlucks. A holiday potluck doesn't just have an inclusive appeal with an opportunity for learning… it appeals to plenty of tummies too!
Many Reasons, One Season: Navigating Holiday Celebrations
MHP Team SI | Nov 2023
When December rolls around, remember that your employees likely have a variety of religious beliefs and holiday traditions. With that in mind, try to focus the party on a more generic celebration of the holidays and wintertime. With that said, it's best to ditch the Santa and reindeer decorations– try snowflakes or garland instead. You should even consider the colors of your decor. Be aware that red and green decorations are associated with Christmas, while blue and white are traditionally used for Hanukkah celebrations. The less your activities, food, and décor highlight Christmas exclusively, the more you'll include all your employees in the festivities.
8 Tips For Hosting An Inclusive Office Holiday Party
Merritt Business Solutions | Nov 2023
Acknowledging different cultures and traditions is invaluable. If possible, feature employees and their family traditions in staff communication forums. Additionally, remember that everyone does not enjoy the holiday season. Providing additional mental health support for staff is essential to trying to meet the needs of all team members.
20 Simple Gestures For HR Teams To Consider This Holiday Season
Forbes | Nov 2023
Ask employees what they want. When in doubt, ask your staff for their opinions. If you have a party-planning committee, make sure it comprises employees with various backgrounds and religious beliefs. Ask employees about what kinds of activities, if any, they'd enjoy participating in, and find out what dates and times work best for their schedules.
Four Ways to Practice Inclusiveness During the Holidays
ASAE | Nov 2023
Tips from University Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Departments
Holiday Best Practices
UC Davis | Nov 2023
Upcoming Winter Celebrations
University of Iowa | Nov 2022
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