After the bitter winter weather that hit much of North America, most of our readers are probably ready for spring. This month is the start of a new season full of possibilities. So besides waiting for the snow to melt, here are five things to do in the month of March.
Celebrate Women’s History Month
From Joan of Arc to Marie Curie to Rosa Parks, history was cultivated by inspirational, driven women. And with March being Women’s History Month, this is a perfect time to celebrate the many women who have helped bring us into the 21st century. Women have made drastic advancements in the workplace, and according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, percentage of women in the labor force has jumped from 43.3% in 1970 to 58.6% in 2010. Whether a CEO, department head, executive admin, or up-and-coming talent, there have been effective leaders who have shaped our careers. Be sure to encourage your employees to think on who has been an inspiration in their lives and what they can learn from them. Who knows, maybe the next Susan B. Anthony is in your office!
Spring Clean Your Office Space
In a study published in the Philological Science Journal, researchers found that a messy desk can play a role in determining your work behavior. If you want to cultivate healthier habits, start by cleaning your desk. And with March 20th being the first day of spring, it’s time for spring cleaning anyway! So before being drowned in company-branded, trade show items, consider using this month to clean out your office. The week of March 24 is National Cleaning Week and is a perfect time to have your entire office get rid of old materials to make way for new ones coming this year. It’s also a great time to organize any existing files that have been piling up on your desk!
Show the Power of Appreciation
According to a recent Gallup survey, only 45% of men and 50% of women are satisfied with the recognition they receive at work for their accomplishments. Showing your appreciation can do wonders to employee morale. From a discrete note to public acknowledgements to an office party, letting your team know their work makes a difference and that they are an integral part in your overall business’ success is a great way to maintain a productive, engaged team. The first week of March is National Write a Letter of Appreciation Week and finishes off on Friday, March 7, with Employee Appreciation Day. Think of fun ways you can show you care, and if you can, try and do a fun outing or party for your team on Friday.
St. Patrick’s Day
Every March millions of people around the world put on their favorite green attire and bring out their inner Irish. Monday, March 17, is St. Patrick’s Day, and while you may not be able to join in the local holiday parade, you can bring the green festivity to the office. Consider throwing a Patty’s Day party by encouraging your employees to participate in an Irish potluck, including traditional Irish dishes and fun green colored treats. Taking advantage of this green opportunity is a great way to mix up mundane Mondays!
Get Financially Sound
If you haven’t completed your taxes yet, don’t wait until April to try and beat the deadline. Use this month to thoroughly go through all of your expenses in 2013 to assure you cross all your T’s and dot your I’s. This is also a great opportunity to look forward to this year’s expenses and any money markets or retirement funds you are paying into. Maybe it’s time to move some money around. Either way, staying on top of everything is infinitely better than the alternative.
What are some things you plan to do this month? Let us know in the comments section below!
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