It seems to me that it is getting more and more difficult to run a business well during the holiday season because of the huge number of pitfalls and political faux pas that see to lie in wait at the base of every Christmas tree, Menorah, and Pillar candle in the country. No matter what you say you run the risk of saying the wrong thing and causing an inter-cultural incident. Even school systems have begun calling Christmas Break “Winter Break”.
Potentially, we will end up in a society that has become so politically correct that we will just give the gifts and forget about the other trappings of the season. It will be Mastercardmas for every culture.
Still, it is important to recognize other people’s beliefs and traditions during December, the month of feasts. 
It is especially important when those people are customers or employees and coworkers. Having a company Holiday party and serving ham may not be the best thing to do if you have Jewish employees. Allowing African American employees evenings off during Kwanza is a nice gesture. Christians appreciate Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with their families, whereas a Jewish employee might not mind working those times.
Learn to be mindful of the traditions of the cultures that you work with and you will find that they are more than willing to not only share their rich heritage but to work together to make the month of December run smoothly for all.
When you need quick gifts for many employees consider vouchers for time off, movie gift cards, starbucks cards, and small but necessary items like pens and key rings. The items are not flashy but they do acknowledge the recipeint in a warm way.
People are people. They all like to be respected, acknowledged and be made to feel important and part of something good. Christmas is a great opportunity to do that.
image:morguefile
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