Ah, the midway point of tax season at an accounting firm—a moment of relief amidst the flurry of numbers, forms and deadlines. Improving your accounting firm’s culture isn’t typically top of mind during busy season. But we’re at the halfway point. That means it’s the perfect time to pause, take a breath, and inject some fun and camaraderie into the workplace.
After all, your team has been tirelessly crunching numbers and navigating tax laws for weeks. That’s why we’ve gathered seven creative ways to celebrate this milestone and boost morale at your accounting firm:
No. 1: Themed dress-up day
Encourage your team to dress up according to a fun theme related to taxes or finance. Whether it’s “Dress Like Your Favorite Tax Deduction” or “Numbers Nerds Day,” it’s a light-hearted way to bring some laughter into the office.
No. 2: Potluck lunch
Organize a potluck lunch where everyone brings in a dish to share. It’s an excellent opportunity for team bonding over delicious food and a chance to showcase culinary skills outside of number-crunching.
Check out this list of easy potluck dish ideas (ready in 15 minutes or less).
No. 3: Team outing
Take a half-day or a whole day (yes, even during busy season) to treat your team to a well-deserved outing or happy hour. Whether it’s a casual gathering at a local bar or a team-building activity like mini-golf or bowling, it’s a wonderful way to unwind and strengthen bonds outside the office.
No. 4: Massage day
Bring in massage therapists to offer chair massages to your hardworking staff. A brief massage session can work wonders in relieving stress and tension, helping your team recharge for the remainder of busy season.
Companies like HereSpa and BetterLounge offer onsite, in-office chair massages, manicures and pedicures, haircuts, and even yoga and fitness classes.
No. 5: Office games tournament
Organize a tournament of office games such as ping pong, foosball or board games. Divide your team into groups and let the friendly competition begin. It’s a fun way to inject some energy into the workplace and foster teamwork.
Search “rent foosball ping pong games table near me” for a list of companies that’ll deliver games straight to your office.
No. 6: Ice cream sundae bar
Set up a DIY ice cream sundae bar complete with all the toppings—chocolate syrup, sprinkles, whipped cream, cherries, Reese’s (and more Reese’s). Did we mention Reese’s?
Let your team indulge in a sweet treat to reward their hard work.
No. 7: Mindfulness and meditation sessions
Bring in a mindfulness or meditation practitioner to help staff find their “om” during the stress of busy season. They’ll learn helpful practices to take with them for the remainder of tax season—and beyond.
Companies like Meditation House offer virtual meditation sessions to corporations via Zoom. If self-paced is more your style, check out apps like Headspace, Calm and Healthy Minds Innovations.
Make this tax season one to remember
You have to take the time now to support your team. Improving your accounting firm’s culture can’t take a backseat—even during busy season. Celebrating the midway point of tax season at your firm is not only a chance to unwind and have fun but also an opportunity to boost morale, strengthen team bonds and show appreciation for your hardworking staff.
By incorporating these creative ideas into your workplace, you can make this tax season one to remember for all the right reasons.
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