The later part of the year often gives companies a chance to showcase their culture in its best light. From Thanksgiving potlucks to full-on, off-site Christmas parties, these are the moments for workers to revel in a shared sense of fun and belonging.
However, if the term “worker” conjures an image of strictly full-time employees, it may be time to recalibrate expectations. ’Tis the season for many organizations to welcome an influx of temporary staff, after all.
To ensure companies get the most out of their workers – and workers get the most out of their companies – the benefits conferred by an invigorating, nurturing culture should be extended to one and all.
Getting in on the fun
Company culture is certainly not wasted on seasonal employees, and the reasons for a more inclusive approach are compelling.
For one thing, seasonal workers who excel in their positions may become candidates for full-time hiring (or at least additional temporary work in the future). In cases like these, prior familiarity with a company’s culture not only gives former temp workers an existing inroad into understanding their new employer, but also makes them more likely to want to work there in the first place (and encourage their friends to do the same).
Furthermore, company culture functions as an expression of reciprocity. Employees whose contributions help an organization thrive are in turn rewarded with a welcoming and uplifting environment. And because seasonal workers certainly make valid contributions of their own, their efforts deserve similar rewards.
Atmosphere of goodwill
Crucially, at the end of the day, a company’s culture is about more than just holiday gift exchanges. And it’s much more than a collection of perks like gym access or free food. It’s about an overarching atmosphere of goodwill toward employees that permeates even the most minor interactions in the workplace.
Viewed from this perspective, the question is not, “Why should a company bother with culture for seasonal hires?” The real question becomes, “Why shouldn’t a company introduce seasonal hires to its culture?”
To conscientious professionals, the answer (or, more accurately, the lack thereof) will be clear.