Being Santa Claus is a Year-Round Calling

Being Santa Claus is often described as a year-round calling rather than just seasonal employment, according to a new paper published in the Academy of Management Journal. The research, led by Christina Hymer of the University of Tennessee, explores why individuals choose this line of work and how they navigate the role professionally.

The study suggests that many professional Santas maintain aspects of their identity all year round, regardless of whether they fit the stereotypical popular image of Santa. The findings highlight that the role requires a deep commitment that extends far beyond the holiday season.

The research initiative began during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when Christina Hymer spent considerable time watching Christmas movies with her toddler. One film in particular sparked her academic curiosity: the 2003 movie Elf, which stars Will Ferrell as a full-sized human raised among elves who travels to New York City to find his biological father.

The storyline prompted Hymer to wonder about the motivations behind becoming Santa Claus and the specific experiences associated with the role. This curiosity eventually led to a comprehensive academic inquiry into the professional Santa community.

To gather comprehensive data, Hymer and her co-authors collaborated with the leader of a Santa school. This partnership allowed the researchers to analyze archival surveys covering 849 professional Santas.

In addition to historical data, the team conducted a new survey of another 382 Santas. They also performed over 50 personal interviews to gain deeper qualitative insights. The dedication of the subjects was evident, with one interviewee reportedly showing up in full costume for a Zoom interview, complete with a North Pole background, and signing off with a merry "ho! ho! ho!"

The core finding of the study is that professional Santas often view their work as a higher calling. The research indicates that the identity of Santa is not something that can be turned on and off with a costume.

According to the summary of the findings, "You're Santa Claus 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 52 weeks a year." This philosophy is rooted in the belief that breaking character or acting out of the Santa persona can shatter "the magic" for those who believe.

The study from the Academy of Management Journal provides a unique look into the professional lives of Santas, revealing that the role is defined by a continuous, year-round commitment. Through the lens of Christina Hymer's research, it is clear that for many, being Santa is not just a job, but a lifestyle.