Author: dayoff

  • How to Keep the Motivated Spirit of Your Team

    How to Keep the Motivated Spirit of Your Team

    Talented employees are the most valuable asset of any corporation, and in order to get a bigger gain and better results from every team member, then keeping your team motivated is a must. Here are some tip to keep the motivated spirit of your team members.

    Provide a Pleasant Workplace

    A healthy and positive workplace is a great factor that affects the productivity of your team, and most importantly their feel of comfort during the working day. A clean workplace, comfortable desk, clean air and some plants are the best combination for a healthy workplace and happy productive employees.

    Pay Them What They Worth

    When it comes to setting your employees’ salaries, make sure that their salaries are consistent with what other companies in your industry and area are paying. Some statistics show that about 25% of employees can leave their company to another one for just 5% increase in salary, so don’t lose your employees because you are not paying them enough.

    Show Respect

    An employee feeling respected is an employee having a reason to give more effort and produce better results. Even if an employee loves the work, feeling disrespected won’t make them commit for so long. When they feel respected and appreciated, you will get extraordinary results.

    Set Goals

    The best way to motivate people is to give them a goal you achieve. Set the finish line and don’t move it, put milestones and keep them updated when they reach it, let them feel the progress they are making to make them want to do more and more.

    Share Your Thoughts and Vision

    Your team members will be more committed when they feel that they are part of your business goal and future vision. When people understand your mission, and feel the value of their role in the big process, they will be more committed and willing to reach the goals with you.

    Provide the Needed Tools

    When giving tasks, don’t ask people to do things in ways that are much more difficult and time consuming than they should be. Provide your team with modern tools to help them finish their work in an efficient way, don’t make them use old fashioned techniques that could be difficult and boring to use. And stay open for new tools suggestions that can improve the quality of the work.

    Don’t Clip Their Wings

    Make your employees spread their wings, give them some space to innovate and come up with creative ideas and solutions. Ideas that may sound strange at first can turn out the greatest of all that your team has ever worked with. So don’t lock them up in a box and let the new ideas break free.

    Give Feedback

    You can be happy and proud of your team’s performance, but do you tell them that? Offering positive feedback is important to keep the spirit up as many managers fail to tell their tea that things are going well, and because of this many employees find that they are only getting negative feedback. It’s important to let them know you’ve noticed them doing something right.

    Be Available

    Make sure that you’re accessible to your staff and they can reach you easily, especially when they need your help. It’s really frustrating for and employee to feel that their job is of a low priority due to not being able to easily reach his manager. Remember, even the smallest role is important for your firm to keep going.

    Praise and Recognize Their Efforts

    Your employees need to feel appreciated and that their efforts are effective and recognized. Thanking employees publicly for their efforts builds loyalty and commitment and makes them motivated to do more. And there are many ways to reward your employees for their efforts maybe with raises, lunch treats, team parties, paid vacation and time off , or even a certificate. 

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Keeping Employees Motivated

    Why is employee motivation important for business success?

    Motivated employees are more productive, engaged, and committed to their work. They contribute higher quality results, foster a positive work environment, and are more likely to stay with the company long-term, reducing turnover and improving team stability.

    What’s the most effective way to motivate employees?

    There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. A combination of fair compensation, respectful treatment, clear goals, recognition, a positive work environment, and open communication tends to be the most effective strategy for maintaining motivation.

    How can I recognize employees without spending a lot of money?

    Simple gestures like public praise, thank-you notes, certificates, or verbal recognition during team meetings can go a long way. The key is sincerity and consistency—people want to feel seen and valued.

    What role does workplace culture play in motivation?

    Workplace culture is foundational to motivation. A culture that promotes respect, collaboration, innovation, and well-being makes employees feel safe, supported, and driven to contribute their best.

    How often should I give feedback to my team?

    Regular feedback, both positive and constructive, is ideal. Weekly check-ins, monthly reviews, or informal chats after tasks are completed can help employees stay aligned, feel appreciated, and continuously improve.

    Should employees have input in setting goals?

    Yes, involving employees in goal-setting increases ownership and motivation. When team members understand and contribute to their goals, they’re more likely to stay engaged and work purposefully toward achieving them.

    How do I support creativity in my team?

    Encourage open idea-sharing, avoid micromanaging, and foster a safe space for experimentation. Be receptive to new suggestions and willing to try untested approaches—this empowers employees and promotes innovation.

    What tools or resources can improve motivation?

    Modern, user-friendly tools that simplify tasks, save time, and improve productivity can boost motivation. Additionally, providing training, access to learning resources, and flexible work options are effective motivators.

    How can I ensure I’m approachable as a manager?

    Maintain open lines of communication, be responsive, listen actively, and show genuine interest in your employees’ concerns. Being available and supportive makes your team feel respected and heard.

    How do I create a workplace where employees feel valued?

    Foster a culture of appreciation, recognize efforts publicly, celebrate successes as a team, and involve employees in decision-making processes. Making employees feel that their work matters creates loyalty and lasting motivation.

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  • CANADA – PUBLIC HOLIDAYS CALENDAR 2019

    CANADA – PUBLIC HOLIDAYS CALENDAR 2019

    One of the favorite things is planning a vacation and taking day off. Nothing is better than a well-formatted calendar with flight info and dinner reservations. But first you need to know when exactly to do it. Here is a list of the 2019 public holidays in Canada and Quebec.
    on those days most of government offices, businesses, shops and banks will be closed on.
    From coast to coast, Canadians eagerly anticipate these special days, which not only provide a welcome break from the routine but also serve as a time for reflection, unity, and festivity,

    Day Date Holiday Territory
    Tuesday January 1 New Year’s Day National
    Friday April 19 Good Friday National
    Monday April 22 Easter Monday National
    Monday May 20 Victoria Day/National Patriots Day National
    Monday June 24 Quebec national Holiday Quebec only
    Monday July 1 Canada Day National
    Monday August 5 British Columbia Day British Columbia only
    Monday August 5 Heritage Day – Alberta Alberta only
    Monday September 2 Labor Day National
    Monday October 14 Thanksgiving Day National
    Monday November 11 Remembrance Day National
    Wednesday December 25 Christmas National
    Thursday December 26 Boxing Day National

    In Canada, public holidays are more than just dates on a calendar; they are threads that weave the rich tapestry of the country. Each event brings people together, creating unity in diversity and enhancing Canadian identity. Canadians commemorate their heritage, express thanks, and embrace the ideals of compassion, inclusivity, and belonging via these holidays, making each public holiday a monument to the peaceful spirit of this wide and friendly country.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Canadian Public Holidays

    Are public holidays the same across all of Canada?

    Not entirely. While there are nationally recognized holidays, some provinces have their own exclusive holidays. For example, Quebec celebrates Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day on June 24, and Alberta observes Heritage Day on the first Monday in August.

    Do all businesses close on public holidays in Canada?

    Most government offices, banks, and many businesses close on public holidays. However, some services, especially in the hospitality and tourism sectors, may remain open, depending on the province and local regulations.

    What’s the difference between federal and provincial holidays?

    Federal holidays are observed nationwide, while provincial holidays are specific to individual provinces or territories. Provincial governments determine which holidays are statutory in their region.

    How does Quebec’s holiday calendar differ from the rest of Canada?

    Quebec has a unique cultural identity, which is reflected in holidays like the Quebec National Holiday (June 24). It also sometimes observes different names or customs for national holidays, such as celebrating National Patriots Day instead of Victoria Day.

    What happens if a public holiday falls on a weekend?

    In most cases, if a holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, it is observed on the nearest weekday (usually the following Monday). This ensures employees still receive a day off in recognition of the holiday.

    Can employers require employees to work on public holidays?

    This depends on the province and the nature of the job. In many cases, if employees are required to work on a public holiday, they must be compensated with holiday pay or an alternate day off, under local labor laws.

    Why are public holidays significant in Canadian culture?

    Public holidays reflect Canada’s diverse heritage and values. They offer time for celebration, remembrance, and connection, promoting unity and pride across the nation’s many cultures and communities.

    Smarter time off tracking starts here.

  • USA – PUBLIC HOLIDAYS CALENDAR 2019

    USA – PUBLIC HOLIDAYS CALENDAR 2019

    One of the favorite things for many of us is planning a vacation. Nothing is better than a well-planned calendar with flight info and dinner reservations. But first, you need to know when exactly to do it, public holidays in the United States differ according to state and jurisdiction. However, certain federal official holidays are observed nationally. The following is a list of federal public holidays in USA for the year 2019:

    Day Date Holiday
    Tuesday January 1 New Year’s Day
    Monday January 21 Martin Luther King Day
    Tuesday February 12 Lincoln’s Birthday
    Monday February 18 President’s Day
    Monday May 27 Memorial Day
    Thursday July 4 Independence Day
    Monday September 2 Labor Day
    Monday October 14 Columbus Day
    Tuesday November 5 Election Day
    Thursday November 28 Thanksgiving
    Wednesday December 25 Christmas

    Please keep in mind that some holidays, especially if they fall on a weekend, may be commemorated on various dates. Furthermore, various states and areas may have their own holidays or variants on these federal holidays.
    It is always a good idea to check with local government websites or companies for the most up-to-date holiday information.

    If a public holidays in USA falls on a Saturday, the preceding Friday is a day off and if a holiday falls on a Sunday the following Monday is a holiday.

    And as for state holidays, they are holidays for the government and public sector in that state, and many. Not all private businesses will give employees the day off.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – U.S. Public Holidays

    What are federal public holidays in the United States?

    Federal public holidays are nationally recognized days when most non-essential federal government offices are closed. In 2019, there were 11 such holidays, including New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

    Do all states observe the same public holidays?

    No. While federal holidays are generally recognized across all states, each state may also have additional holidays or local observances. For example, Lincoln’s Birthday and Election Day may be recognized in some states but not in others.

    What happens when a public holiday falls on a weekend?

    If a public holiday falls on a Saturday, the holiday is usually observed on the preceding Friday. If it falls on a Sunday, it is typically observed on the following Monday.

    Are state holidays observed by private companies?

    Not always. State holidays primarily apply to government and public sector workers within that state. Some private businesses may choose to give employees the day off, but it is not mandatory unless required by state law or company policy.

    How can I find the most accurate holiday schedule for my location?

    To ensure accuracy, it’s best to check official state or local government websites or your employer’s HR department for the most current information on public holidays and business closures.

    Why is it important to know the holiday calendar before planning a vacation?

    Knowing the holiday calendar helps avoid scheduling conflicts, ensures availability for travel bookings, and allows you to make the most of long weekends and time off with minimal disruption to work obligations.

    Conclusion

    Understanding the U.S. public holiday calendar is essential not just for planning vacations, but also for managing work schedules, business operations, and personal commitments. While federal holidays offer a consistent framework, state-specific observances and variations can impact availability and closures in different regions. By staying informed and checking local resources, you can make the most of your time off, avoid scheduling surprises, and enjoy well-planned, stress-free holidays throughout the year.

  • FRANCE – PUBLIC HOLIDAYS CALENDAR 2019

    FRANCE – PUBLIC HOLIDAYS CALENDAR 2019

    One of the favorite things is planning a vacation. Nothing is better than a well-formatted calendar with flight info and dinner reservations. But first you need to know when exactly to do it. public holidays in France are known as “jours fériés.” Here is the list of public holidays in France for the year 2019. In those days most of government offices, businesses, shops and banks will be closed on:

    Day Date Holiday
    Tuesday January 1 Jour de l’An
    Friday April 19 Vendredi Saint
    Monday April 22 Lundi de Pâques
    Wednesday May 1 Fête du Travail
    Wednesday May 8 Fête de la Victoire 45
    Thursday May 30 Jeudi de l’Ascension
    Monday June 10 Lundi de la Pentecôte
    Sunday July 14 Fête Nationale
    Thursday August 15 Fête de l’Assomption
    Friday November 1 Fête de la Toussaint
    Monday November 11 Fête de l’Armistice 1918
    Wednesday December 25 Noël
    Thursday December 26 Saint Etienne

    Please keep in mind that some French day off, such as Bastille Day, have fixed dates. While others, such as Easter Monday and Ascension Day, are based on the lunar calendar and hence fluctuate each year.

    The official holidays highlight not only the country’s historical history, but also the French love of tradition, community, and togetherness.
    These events are more than just dates on a calendar; they are threads that weave the fabric of French culture, bringing people together and promoting a sense of unity, making every holiday season in this great country a memorable and joyful experience.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Are public holidays in France the same every year?

    Not exactly. Fixed-date holidays like Bastille Day (July 14) occur on the same day annually, while others such as Easter Monday and Ascension Day, change each year as they follow the lunar calendar.

    Do all businesses close on public holidays in France?

    Most government offices, banks, and many shops close, especially in smaller towns. However, restaurants, tourist attractions, and some supermarkets in major cities may remain open.

    How do the French celebrate public holidays?

    Public holidays are often marked by family meals, local festivities, parades, and community events. They reflect the country’s strong sense of tradition, unity, and national pride.

    Are public holidays the same across all regions in France?

    Generally yes, but regions like Alsace and Moselle observe additional holidays, such as Saint Etienne (December 26), due to their unique cultural and historical background.

    Is it easy to travel in France during public holidays?

    Travel is possible but can be busier than usual. Public transport may run on limited schedules, and some services may be closed, so it’s wise to plan and book ahead.