Valentine’s Day is a day aimed at allowing people to share their love and admirations for one another. However, while there are certain behaviours that are simply not appropriate for the workplace, employers need to take into consideration how their employees may feel. Human capital management solutions provider Manpower South Africa’s MD, Lyndy van den Barselaar, explains.
Global advertising agency Havas Worldwide released a Prosumer report titled Millenials: The Challenger Generation, which focused on Millenials (those aged between 18 and 25) and how they are changing the world.
When looking at the workplace, the report found that when looking for a job, the respondents’ first concern was being able to balance work and life. A good working atmosphere was third on the list, after the salary.
“The Millenial generation, who are entering the workforce more and more, are looking for a more social and happy working environment, allowing them to balance their work and their social life. This makes socialising an important aspect of their working life,” explains Van den Barselaar.
“This is something employers should consider. Take advantage of days like Valentine’s Day to set up team building exercises, where co-workers can engage with one another and get to know one another better.”
Forbes Business suggests creating a “love board”, where employees are able to share what they love about their job.
“While Valentine’s Day may bring a more relaxed atmosphere to the office, it is not justification for inappropriate office behaviour,” she says.
Employees should avoid buying gifts for co-workers, especially inappropriate or expensive gifts.
“This could make your co-workers uncomfortable,” explains Van den Barselaar. “Additionally, buying gifts only for certain colleagues and not for others could upset your colleagues and make them feel ostracised. This could affect the working relationship going forward.”
If you really want to bring something to celebrate the day, Van den Barselaar suggests bringing something the whole office can enjoy together, like chocolates, cupcakes or biscuits for example. “This will also allow you to celebrate the day together, as a group,” says Van den Barselaar.
She notes that it is inappropriate to express interest in any of your colleagues inside of office hours.
“While the more social working environment may allow for friendships, and even relationships, to blossom, co-workers should avoid flirting or getting physical with colleagues in the work place. If you do happen to be in a relationship with a colleague ensure you separate your romantic life from your work life, even on Valentine’s Day. Keep a professional working environment,” says Van den Barselaar.
She states that employers should be open to the more social working environment.
“The Prosumer Report notes that it is clear that Millenials expect at least some degree of happiness in their work situations. Money is not a counterbalance to misery. Providing some social activities will keep employees happy and motivated, and will allow them to build good working relationships with one another.”
She explains that employers can set out rules for the workplace, to ensure the environment stays professional, and that employees know what is and what is not acceptable.
The business landscape is evolving more and more, as more Millenials enter the workplace.
“While the working environment should always be a professional environment, employers do need to take these factors into consideration and allow for some social activities in the workplace. An informal day like Valentine’s Day is a good place to start.”
