A new study conducted by workplace interior landscaping company Ambius has found that getting the office into the festive spirit through seasonal decorations, such as Christmas trees, provides a boost in employee wellbeing and engagement.
In Ambius’s survey, the vast majority (85%) of employees reported that seasonal décor had a positive impact on their mood at work, while nine out of ten UK office managers and business owners said they believe that seasonal décor had a positive impact on employee wellbeing. Despite this, one in six UK office managers surveyed do not install either seasonal decorations or a Christmas tree in their office reception.
When asked for feedback on what they felt was the impact on employee behaviour, office managers and business owners cited ‘increased employee engagement’ as the main benefit of seasonal décor in the workplace, while employees reported that decorations made them feel ‘friendly,’ ‘happy’ and ‘celebratory’.
Over 300 respondents – both employees and office or facilities managers – participated in the survey. Other key findings include:
- Seasonal décor doesn’t go unnoticed – three quarters of office managers and business owners said they get positive comments and feedback on seasonal décor from customers
- Customers expect decorations – 70% of office managers and business owners believe that seasonal decorations are expected by customers
- Trees are on the way up – two thirds of office managers and business owners envisage their company investing more in seasonal décor in the future
- Music to employees’ ears – two thirds of employees reported that festive music would positively impact their seasonal experience in the office
“The festive season clearly has a positive effect on morale for a vast majority of employees, which can be essential in maintaining motivation throughout the darker and colder winter months,” said, Kenneth Freeman, Head of Innovation at Ambius. “Even something as simple as a single decoration or Christmas tree in the reception area can help ensure that festive energy can be channelled into the workplace.”
“Humans have an innate need to connect with nature and adding greenery to the office is proven to help increase productivity, creativity and wellbeing. If done respectfully, a festive touch in the office, through Christmas trees or seasonal plants such as holly or poinsettias can bring these benefits, while also enhancing team morale in the workplace. As these findings demonstrate, it can even enrich the relationship between the company and its customers or stakeholders.”