As the year draws to a close, Christmas offers a chance to pause, connect, and share gratitude for the people who make our work meaningful. Whether your organization celebrates with a holiday luncheon, a Secret Santa gift exchange, or simply by giving the gift of time off, this season is about more than lights and decorations—it’s about kindness, connection, and carrying that goodwill into the year ahead.
In the HR world, December often brings a flurry of activity—year-end wrap-ups, benefit renewals, and the occasional last-minute payroll correction (because nothing says “season of giving” like making sure paychecks are right). Still, it’s also a perfect opportunity to spread cheer and acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and resilience of employees across the organization.
So, in the spirit of the season, here’s an HR take on a classic holiday poem…
‘Twas the Week Before Christmas (An HR Holiday Poem)
‘Twas the week before Christmas, when all through the place,
Not an email was stirring, not even from Space* (*the Zoom room, of course).
The policies were posted with diligence and care,
In hopes that compliance would always be there.
The staff were all nestled in sweaters of red,
While visions of holiday treats danced in their head.
And I at my desk, with cocoa in hand,
Had just closed the file on the year’s final plan.
When out by the copier there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from my chair to see what was the matter.
Away to the hallway I moved like a flash,
Hoping no one had caused a supply room crash.
The glow of the tree cast a warm little light,
As I peeked ‘round the corner to check on the sight.
When what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But the whole staff together, all brimming with cheer.
With smiles and cards and a plate piled high,
Of cookies and fudge and fresh pumpkin pie,
They spoke all at once in a chorus so true:
“This year wouldn’t have worked half as well without you!”
They thanked us for hiring, for keeping things fair,
For guiding with patience and showing we care.
For training, for listening, for keeping our cool,
For knowing the handbook and following the rule.
My heart gave a leap, my cheeks felt the glow,
As I realized they just wanted us to know—
That HR’s not just policies, forms, and reviews,
It’s people, it’s trust, it’s the culture we choose.
And I heard them exclaim, as they turned out the light,
“Merry Christmas to all—and to all, a good night!”
From our HR Answers family to yours, may this Christmas bring you joy, rest, and connection. May your days be merry, your inboxes be light, and your celebrations reflect the warmth and togetherness that truly define this season.