Welcoming a Sweet New Year

Rosh Hashanah in the Workplace

Starts at sundown Friday, September 26 – Ends Sunday, September 28

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is a time of reflection, hope, and fresh beginnings. It marks the start of the High Holy Days and offers an opportunity for all of us—regardless of background—to pause, look back on the year behind us, and look ahead with intention.

The holiday begins at sundown on Friday, September 26, and concludes at nightfall on Sunday, September 28. In Jewish tradition, days start in the evening, which means those observing may need to leave work early on Friday to prepare for family gatherings or religious services.

Rosh Hashanah is both solemn and joyful—an invitation to consider how we’ve shown up in the world and how we can make the year ahead even better.

Common traditions include:

  • Blowing of the Shofar – A ram’s horn sounded during synagogue services to inspire reflection and renewal.
  • Eating Apples and Honey – A wish for a sweet year ahead.
  • Round Challah Bread – Symbolizing the cycle of life and the continuity of the year.
  • Tashlich – A symbolic “casting away” of past mistakes by tossing crumbs or small pebbles into flowing water.

These customs remind us that starting fresh is always possible and that small, intentional actions can shape an entire year.

Bringing Rosh Hashanah Spirit to the Workplace

While religious observance is personal, organizations can acknowledge Rosh Hashanah in ways that foster inclusion and community spirit.

Here are a few ideas:

  • Share a warm greeting: “Shanah Tovah” (sha-NAH toe-VAH) means “a good year.”
  • Be mindful of scheduling: Avoid late-afternoon meetings on Friday and be flexible with deadlines.
  • Offer a sweet gesture: Provide apples and honey in the breakroom with a small note about the tradition.
  • Create a reflection moment: Invite employees to share one work habit they want to start, stop, or strengthen in the year ahead—participation always optional.

Recognizing holidays like Rosh Hashanah is more than a calendar note—it’s a way to show respect, build trust, and create a workplace culture where everyone feels valued. For Jewish employees, acknowledgment can make the difference between feeling invisible and feeling truly seen. For others, it’s a chance to learn about a tradition that carries universal themes of growth and renewal.

 As the shofar sounds and apples meet honey, we are reminded that the sweetness of the year ahead comes from the connections we build, the respect we show, and the intentions we set. To all who celebrate—Shanah Tovah! May the coming year bring health, purpose, and joy.

Civility at Work Matters More Than Ever

At HR Answers, we often hear concerns about the level of civility in today’s workplaces. People tell us they notice a decline in general politeness, courtesy, and respect. And it’s true: civility is complicated.

For some, civility is the foundation of a healthy workplace and society. For others, appeals to civility have historically been used to silence voices and maintain the status quo. Both perspectives are valid and understanding them helps us use civility constructively rather than defensively.

Civility as a Strength

  • Respectful dialogue: True civility means listening to others — even when we disagree — and engaging productively.
  • Confidence, not weakness: Leading with respect in a conflict shows competence, not surrender.
  • Deeper than manners: Civility is more than etiquette; it’s recognizing others as moral equals.
  • Historical roots: From Aristotle to Franklin, civility has long been tied to the idea of citizenship and social responsibility.

Civility Misused

  • Silencing dissent: Calls for civility have sometimes been used to dismiss or deflect justified protest.
  • Unequal standards: Historically, “out-groups” have been held to stricter civility standards than those in power.
  • Ignoring context: Tone-policing without understanding intent can shut down dialogue instead of opening it.

The Key Distinction

The critical question is: who is asking for civility, and why? When it’s about maintaining power, it can be harmful. But when everyone models mutual respect, civility becomes the bridge to healthier, more productive workplaces.

What Civility Looks Like

  • Treating others with dignity, courtesy, and consideration
  • Speaking in appropriate tones
  • Respecting others’ right to express views, even when disagreeing
  • Managing conflict in respectful, constructive ways

Incivility looks different: rudeness, intimidation, swearing, humiliating others, or shutting down opposing views.

Benjamin Franklin once said: “Be civil to all; serviceable to many; familiar with few; friend to one; enemy to none.” A timeless reminder.

Keys to Civil Dialogue

  1. Lead with kindness.
  2. Be the change — model what you want to see.
  3. Choose your battles wisely.
  4. Respectful disagreement is okay.
  5. Listen actively and without interruption.
  6. Focus on ideas, not people.
  7. Disagreement ≠ lack of intelligence.
  8. Manage your emotions.
  9. Watch your tone and volume.
  10. Mind your manners — sarcasm and insults, close doors.
  11. Use facts, not assumptions.
  12. Seek to understand different contexts.
  13. Focus on solutions, not just problems.
  14. Celebrate differences.

Disagreements and debates are inevitable. But with a commitment to civility and respect, we’re more likely to find solutions, acceptance, and understanding — all of which workplaces need now more than ever.

If this message resonates, or if your organization wants to reinforce civility in your culture, HR Answers can help. We offer educational programming and training to make civility a workplace standard, not an afterthought.