As the Weather Cools, Check In Before Things Cool Off at Work
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When the temperature drops, something subtle shifts — not just outside, but in us. The pace slows, the days feel shorter, and even the most motivated among us start to feel that late-year fatigue. Coffee cups multiply, inboxes overflow, and somewhere between October and December, the warmth that carried us through summer starts to cool — sometimes literally, sometimes emotionally.
It’s the time of year when I always ask leaders one simple question:
“Are you checking in on your people?”
The Chill Isn’t Just in the Air
This time of year can bring out the best and worst in workplace culture. The holidays approach, deadlines pile up, and everyone is juggling more than what shows on the surface. Even employees who love their jobs might be feeling worn out — from balancing family obligations, tightening finances, seasonal illnesses, or just the constant drumbeat of “finish strong.”
At the same time, the world around us can feel unsteady. Prices are up, the news cycle is overwhelming, and many people are carrying quiet worries about the future. That tension doesn’t disappear when someone clocks in. It comes with them — in their tone, focus, and emotional bandwidth.
This isn’t about politics or policy. It’s about people. And the truth is, people can’t pour from an empty cup.
When leaders forget to pause and check in, even the best workplace can start to feel cold. Productivity dips, communication frays, and small frustrations build into something bigger. But with intentional care — genuine, human connection — you can help your employees feel grounded again.
Check-Ins Aren’t Just for Performance Reviews
Too often, managers only “check in” when something’s wrong — a missed deadline, a conflict, or a productivity issue. But the best check-ins aren’t about correction. They’re about connection.
A meaningful check-in doesn’t require a big meeting or a structured form. It’s as simple as saying:
“I know it’s been busy — how are you holding up?”
“What’s been working well for you lately?”
“Anything you need from me to make things easier?”
You’d be amazed how many employees rarely hear those questions.
And the answers you get may surprise you. Some might mention a workload issue that’s easy to fix. Others might just need to feel seen — to know their leader notices the effort behind the scenes. In a season when everyone’s running on fumes, those small moments of connection can refill the tank more than you realize.
The Human Side of Leadership
HR isn’t just about handbooks, payroll, or compliance. It’s about creating a culture that sustains people when life gets complicated.
The best leaders do more than assign tasks — they set the tone. They notice when someone seems quieter than usual, when tension creeps into team dynamics, or when motivation starts slipping.
Maybe your most reliable employee is suddenly missing small details. Maybe your most social team member has been keeping to themselves. Those aren’t just performance signals — they’re human ones.
Checking in doesn’t mean prying. It means opening the door. You don’t have to fix someone’s problems — just giving them space to talk can make all the difference.
What “Checking In” Looks Like in Practice
Here are some practical ways to bring warmth back into your workplace as the season cools down:
1. Make It Personal — Not Procedural
Skip the formality. Walk around the office, or hop on a casual Zoom chat. Ask how people are doing — not just what they’re doing. Employees can tell when it’s genuine.
2. Balance Accountability with Empathy
You can uphold standards and still lead with care. If someone’s falling behind, talk about what’s getting in their way before assuming lack of effort. Sometimes the smallest adjustment — like shifting priorities or pairing them with support — reignites engagement.
3. Be Mindful of Burnout Signals
Burnout rarely starts loud. It starts quiet — with small signs like irritability, forgetfulness, or withdrawal. Encourage your managers to look for those early indicators and to check in early, not after things unravel.
4. Encourage Time Off
It’s common for employees to “save” PTO for the holidays, but that often means they’re pushing through exhaustion right now. Encourage short breaks or mental health days before the year-end rush. It’s not lost productivity — it’s an investment in long-term performance.
5. Celebrate Small Wins
Not every success has to be a grand announcement. Sometimes it’s enough to say, “Hey, I saw how you handled that issue — great job.” Recognition is a powerful motivator, especially when morale feels low.
6. Reinforce Team Connection
If your team has been running on autopilot, bring them together for something low-key — coffee and conversation, a gratitude wall, or a simple lunch. It’s not about cost; it’s about care.
Why It Matters Now More Than Ever
Workplace well-being isn’t just a nice-to-have anymore — it’s a strategic advantage. Companies that foster empathy and open communication see:
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Lower turnover
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Higher productivity
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Stronger engagement
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Better customer satisfaction
When employees feel safe and supported, they bring their best selves to work. That’s especially important during the colder months, when motivation can dip and personal stress tends to climb.
And it’s not just about the team — leaders need this too. Managers and business owners are just as human. Sometimes the best way to model a healthy workplace is by practicing what you preach: take a day off, delegate when you can, and talk openly about balance.
Warmth Is a Culture, Not a Season
As the weather cools, workplaces can feel that chill too — but you don’t have to let it in.
Start the conversation now, before things cool off emotionally or relationally.
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Check in.
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Be kind.
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Offer grace.
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Listen more than you talk.
Even one intentional act of connection — a genuine “how are you?” — can rewarm the tone of an entire team.
So as you pull out the sweaters, sip that extra coffee, and watch another year come to a close, don’t forget to do the same for your workplace. Bring a little warmth back where it’s needed most — not just through heaters and holiday lights, but through human connection.
Because long after the holidays fade and the weather warms again, people will remember how they felt working with you this season.
Purciarele Group, LLC
We love HR so you don’t have to™
At Purciarele Group, we specialize in helping businesses strengthen culture, communication, and compliance — all while taking the HR stress off your plate.
Learn more at www.purciarelegroup.com or schedule a time to chat about your workplace needs.
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