Thirty-nine percent of employees say managing their workloads can be difficult during the holiday season, and 41 percent of employees say their workloads are already too heavy, finds a new survey by Accountemps, a specialized staffing firm for temporary accounting, finance and bookkeeping professionals.

"The holidays can be an especially busy time for many workers, who are trying to balance business priorities with personal demands," says Max Messmer, chairman of Accountemps. "This time of year can be particularly challenging for accounting and finance professionals, who are managing year-end close, tax-season preparation, financial reporting requirements and other cyclical initiatives. Managers must ensure work is completed while also avoiding overtaxing internal staff, who may already be stretched thin."

To help employees manage their year-end workloads, Accountemps offers five "gifts" employers can offer:

• Support: Ensure resources are in place for the staff to successfully complete their projects and consider adding skilled temporary staff to help with key initiatives and maintain productivity.
• Time: Encourage staff to leave early on a Friday or take an occasional long lunch to attend to errands.
• Flexibility: Offer flexible schedules or telecommuting options to staff whose jobs have that capability. This helps employees better balances their work and life demands.
• Thanks: Let staff members know they are appreciated for their work throughout the year.
• Fun: Don't let the office environment become too serious. A department celebration, such as a group lunch or gift exchange, can help build camaraderie.