SILLY (FESTIVE) SEASON PREPARATION

Motivating Your Team During the Silly Season: A Guide for Hair and Beauty Employers

The "silly season" that bustling stretch from mid-November through early January is both the most exciting and the most exhausting time of year in the hairdressing and beauty industry. Clients are booking in for end-of-year transformations, weddings, and festive events.

Whilst point-of-sales may be ringing, your team is often running on fumes.

Keeping morale high and energy consistent can make all the difference between a thriving festive season and a burnt-out one. Here's how to keep your staff motivated, positive, and productive through the rush.

1. Recognise and Reward Effort

A simple "thank you" can go a long way, but visible appreciation goes even further. Recognise achievements weekly — from "Top Retail Seller" to "Most Rebookings" or even "Spirit of the Salon/Spa."

Consider small tokens such as:

• Gift cards or vouchers

• Extra time off in January

• A festive bonus (even a modest one shows appreciation)

Public recognition in team meetings or on social media helps staff feel seen and valued.

2. Create a Supportive Schedule

The biggest stressor during the silly season is often overwork. Where possible, stagger shifts and ensure fair rest days. Encourage team members to take quick breaks, hydrate, and eat properly — it's easy to forget when you're on your feet all day.

If your salon/spa allows, consider:

• Shorter "split" shifts for junior staff

• Rotating weekends so everyone gets a breather

• Extended closing times balanced with later starts the next day

A rested stylist or therapist is a happy stylist/therapist — and clients will notice the difference.

3. Keep the Energy Fun

Festive spirit is contagious. Bring joy into the workspace with:

• A themed dress-up day (Christmas headbands, glitter nails, or "crazy hair" day)

• A mini advent calendar or lucky draw for staff

• A holiday playlist that keeps energy upbeat

Even a little fun helps relieve pressure and strengthen team morale.

4. Communicate Clearly and Often

In busy times, clear communication prevents frustration. Hold short daily or weekly "huddles" to update the team on bookings, product stock, or any changes in salon policies.

Encourage open dialogue — ask for feedback and listen. Staff who feel heard are far more motivated to go the extra mile.

5. Focus on Wellbeing

Long hours, physical strain, and constant interaction can take their toll.

Remind your team to:

• Stretch between appointments

• Drink plenty of water

• Take care of their mental health

Even small wellness gestures, like providing snacks, hand cream, or a "quiet corner" for short breaks, show that you care about their wellbeing — not just their output.

6. Plan a Meaningful Celebration

Once the rush slows down, celebrate your team's hard work. A relaxed staff lunch, a year-end braai, or even a pamper day can help everyone reset and feel appreciated before the new year begins.

It doesn't need to be extravagant — it just needs to be genuine.

7. Lead by Example

Your energy sets the tone. Staying calm, positive, and solution-oriented even when things get hectic helps your team do the same. Be visible, lend a hand when needed, and show empathy. Motivation flows naturally from leadership that inspires rather than instructs.

In closing, the silly season can test even the strongest teams, but it's also an opportunity to build loyalty, morale, and lasting trust. When staff feel supported and valued, they not only perform better they stay longer, sell more, and carry that positivity into the quieter months ahead.

A motivated team doesn't just create beautiful hair and glowing skin - they create the kind of festive experience clients remember long after the decorations come down.