How to Manage Working over Holidays as a Graduate or Junior Staff Member

For many, the holiday season means festive cheer and plans for some time out. But for most graduates or junior staff, the reality can be far from downtime to showing up at work while others enjoy their well-deserved break. Being lower in the hierarchy often means you are not first in line for holiday leave. Here’s how to navigate this period gracefully: ensure you are productive, can balance work and life, and command respect from peers and supervisors.

  1. Change Your Mindset

While it might feel like a disadvantage, working during the holidays can be an advantage. Fewer employees in the office can mean a quieter environment to focus, take initiative, and even get noticed for your dedication. Look at it as a chance to contribute meaningfully when others are away.

Pro tip: Frame your mindset positively. You’re gaining valuable experience and proving your reliability early in your career.

  1. Plan Ahead for Your Personal Celebrations

Just because you’re working doesn’t mean you must forgo all the fun. Organize family and friends to celebrate before or after the actual dates of holidays. There are still flexible celebrations that can carry meaning and be a lot of fun.

Some ways to keep the holiday spirit alive:

  • Plan a pre-holiday dinner or post-holiday getaway.
  • Downtime could be used more constructively, such as hosting virtual parties with friends or indulging in favourite holiday activities during evenings and weekends.
  1. Communicate Proactively

Knowing your work schedule for the holidays, make sure to communicate effectively with your loved ones by informing them of your availability. Open discussions can prevent misunderstandings and help one balance commitments of work with personal responsibilities.

At work: Let your boss know if you have a particular holiday party or family obligation. They may be willing to grant a short amount of time off, especially if you ask them well in advance and are willing to be flexible.

  1. Make the Most of Quiet Office Hours

During the holiday season, there may be fewer meetings and a lighter workload. Use the time productively:

  • Upskill: Take an online course or do some industry reading.
  • Organize: Clean up your workspace or refine your own personal workflow.
  • Network: Be interacting with senior staff who are also working; this can be of extreme importance for mentorship.
  1. Take Care of Yourself

It’s easy to get burnt out when you see everyone else being so relaxed while you’re working. Keeping your energy levels up and your mind a little sane will definitely mean taking care of yourself.

  • Stick with healthy routines: eating right, exercising regularly.
  • Take advantage of any offered company perks, like year-end bonuses or holiday snacks.
  • Set aside time for relaxation or hobbies after work.
  1. Reflect on the Bigger Picture

It may be inconvenient to work during holidays, but it is a way of investing in your professional development. One is considered a better team player by employers, whatever the need may be. It creates a lasting impression in your employer’s eyes, and who knows-it just might lead to better opportunities in the future.

Remember: This stage of your career is about building credibility. Showing dedication and flexibility shows commitment and reliability.

  1. Defend Your Shift

If working on holiday is repeated each year, then challenge your manager regarding the holiday shifts and see if there is an opportunity for you to ask that they rotate in the following years. Fair – and this will ensure everyone shares the load, creating a better dynamic in the workplace.

While working over the holidays as a graduate or junior employee feels tough, this is also an opportunity to shine and build character. With the right approach in mind, proactive planning, and focusing on your own self-care, this situation can indeed be in your favour for an enriching experience both personally and professionally.

Let’s not forget, one’s career is a marathon, not a sprint. Greater rewards can result from the sacrifices you may have to make today. Happy holidays—and happy working!