Making the Most of the Holidays

December is an exciting time of the year.  The semester comes to an end.  We focus on family and friends, and we imagine possibilities for the new year.

...and let's be honest...we can't wait for a few days off work!

This is also a time to show our appreciation and plan for the new year.  As leaders, it's important to express our gratitude for the team members who worked tirelessly this year, but how do we do that equitably?  Additionally, the new year means new opportunities.  How do we make the most of it?

This month's newsletter offers tips and tricks for inclusive workplace gifting.  We also reflect on making the most of 2023.  Do you have gift-giving tips or ideas for making workplace resolutions?  Let us know what your team does during the holidays!

New Years Resolutions: Leveraging 2023 in a Changing Industry

By Beth M. Laux, Ed.D.
New year's resolutions.

There are 2 schools of thought on new year's resolutions.  Some people love them.   This group likes the added focus that resolutions bring to the year.  This gives them purpose and helps them channel their energy toward specific goals.  Others despise new year's resolutions.  This group often feels weighed down by the resolutions they make.  They don't like the added pressure that the resolutions bring to their lives, and this becomes a source of frustration or anxiety. 

Regardless of your opinion on new year's resolutions, we all share the same goal: We want 2023 to be the best that it can be, and a key part of that is supporting the people on our teams.

To help you make the most of 2023, QCS is kicking off a Leadership Series in January.  The goal of the series is to help educators make strategic decisions that improve morale and increase employee retention.  Each month, our LinkedIn Articles, Publications, and Newsletters will focus on a topic designed to help you lead and care for your team members throughout the year.  

Ready to get started?  In January, we'll focus on prioritization.  International educators juggle competing demands and interests everyday.  So how do we prioritize in an unpredictable environment?  And how do we make decisions that support our team and other stakeholders?  Tune in next month to learn more.

So what are your resolutions for 2023?  Drop us an email and let us know!

Simple Short Cuts

Fun and Inexpensive Holiday Gifting
The Challenge
The holidays are a time to express our gratitude.  But finding ways to inexpensively and equitably express our thanks can be challenging during this season.

Solutions
Workplace gifting doesn't have to be difficult or costly.  In fact, there are lots of fun ways to celebrate the holidays with your team.  Consider the options below as you and your team begin the season!

Give the Gift of Time

Consider giving your team members an extra, unofficial vacation day in December.  The holidays are busy, and an extra day can make a big difference. QCS's favorite tip: "Give each staff member one mid-week day off.  The kids are at school and stores are less crowded.  It's a great way to do some covert shopping, decorating, and gift-wrapping!"

Hot Chocolate Bar

Want some time to unwind with co-workers?  Set up a hot chocolate bar!  All Recipes has a great supply list.  Staff members can bring their own mug, and the remaining ingredients are inexpensive enough to fit any office budget.  QCS's tip: "Don't forget dietary needs.  Consider adding low carb, low sugar options, too!"

Pay It Forward

Set up an anonymous charity collection for your team.  They can vote to select a charity, and you can donate funds or items.  At the end of the season, you can unveil the total contributions.  QCS's favorite tip: Anonymity takes the pressure off.  It allows staff members to contribute if they can...and potentially reduces feelings of shame if they cannot.

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QCS Spotlight

Weathering the Storm through Temporary Staffing
In the November LinkedIn article, QCS talked about using temporary staffing to weather staff turnover.  But what can temporary staffers do?  Here are a few suggestions.

  • Clerical support and paperwork backlogs
  • Managing applications or proposals
  • Establishing course equivalencies
  • Supporting software or website updates
  • Creating virtual training programs
  • Conducting research or bench-marking
  • Writing reports, proposals, and grant applications
  • Strategic planning and program development
  • Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives

Interested in talking with us about staffing options?  Contact us today. We’ll set you up to hit the ground running.  You can also review the list of sample staffing services in our Services Snapshot. 

Want to write for the QCS Compass?

Do you have an idea for an article?  QCS welcomes guest authors to contribute to our newsletters.  Contact us for more information!

Get Started with QCS

QCS helps international education offices thrive in our changing industry.  Our services are specifically designed for international education.  Contact us today to get started!
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Wishing you and your family a healthy and happy holiday season!


~The QCS Team!