Christmas in a Different Place

Christmas in a different place can be difficult for anyone employed in the service sector, hospitality and catering are no different. As demand for catering services increases over the festive period it can become difficult to maintain a healthy work/life balance.

Fear not, our team here at Cucumber have many years of service under their belts and has some great tips and advice on not only surviving the busy period but how to enjoy your time spending Christmas in a different place, even when working.

Give to others

It’s often the little touches that leave a lasting memory and businesses that do good will be those that get noticed. We have seen so much kindness this year, try and think about ways you can give back to your local community this Christmas.

Take the time

Taking time for yourself for some light pampering and self-care is important over the busy festive period. Everyone needs some downtime and even if it is just lazing in front of the TV, this is an important aspect of having some time to recuperate and recharge ready for the next shift.

Taking time for your customers is also important, sometimes you may be the only person they see at this time of year and spending ten minutes with them while they eat their lunch, can mean all the difference to them. No one wants to eat alone, especially at Christmas in a different place than with their families, and sitting with a patient while they chat about their life can have such a profound effect on their well-being.

Take time out to celebrate the festive season

It’s easy to get caught up in the mania that is the kitchen at busy times. Ensure you set time aside to relax with your staff and have a laugh, a drink and something nutritious to eat that’s going to carry you through hours of running around.

Make Christmas special for your staff

Your staff make your business, so make sure you thank them for all of their efforts during the last few months. A small token of appreciation will go a long way!

Celebrate your success

A festive season debrief will be welcomed by your team as you share successes and learn from mistakes. Celebrate everyone’s hard work and acknowledge a job well done. Looking back at what was successful and what can be learned from the past year can help look ahead and what plan of action to take for the new year.

Get creative

When it comes to the festive season, there are no steadfast rules other than to make it special for your customers. Whether working shifts in a hospital canteen, the local care home or just helping out where you can. Offering an experience to remember can go a long way to making someone’s Christmas that extra little bit magical.

Create fun and interesting party menus. Don’t just stick to a typical three-course lunch. Consider creating mini individual buffet platters, carving at the table for families, and party bags for desserts. Change things, and get creative with your menu or table settings. Adding that little bit of fun and getting into the spirit can lift your mood too

Be Flexible

Being flexible can mean anything from taking an extra shift to cover a colleague watching their child in the school nativity play or pot washing in the care home kitchen. Supporting others and being flexible is a great value to have and will always be appreciated by those around you.

Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, there is no denying it is a busy time of year. However, Christmas in a different place is also one of the most enjoyable when working in the service sector. You get to share this time with many people who may not have many others in their lives. If you are looking for a career within the service sector, consider getting in contact with Cucumber and find out more about our opportunities.