’Tis the season for festive lights, presents and too much of a good thing. That might be fine at home, but things can get a little tricky when all that Christmas stuff happens at work. 

What about the infamous work party – should you let them drink the bar dry or maybe go easy? How does your work function stack up? Are your employees excited to join in on the season festivities? Then there’s Secret Santa - what’s appropriate, and what’s not? 

I’m sure we all have some kind of horror story from a Christmas activity at work, so let’s dive in and explore the “do’s and don’ts” so it’s a fun and respectful time for everyone. 

Is the staff Christmas party a work event or social event? 

Yes, it’s a work event, so work related matters need to be factored in. In particular, the safety and overall wellbeing of your people. All the rules, laws and responsibilities that apply in the workplace, also apply to work parties and events. 

Alcohol 

Many workplaces now have a zero-alcohol policy. But if you do allow alcohol, make sure that you’re not making the event focus around drinking the bar dry. Traditionally, a lot of companies have thrown these alcohol-soaked events and then, surprise! - there’s problems. So, make the focus around food, or socialising, or games, or something where drinking isn’t the main attraction. 

Pre-event communications 

Everyone behaves like responsible adults, right? Well, in some cases that is true. So, you might be forgiven for thinking that after past events, a reminder about the rules is condescending and unnecessary.  Remember, normal workplace rules apply, so stepping through the policy expectations beforehand is recommended. 

If an issue arises at the event, remain calm, note down what’s happened and take appropriate action while avoiding a big scene. Regardless of the situation, don’t sack someone on the spot! 

Do your employees actually want to attend? 

These events are intended to boost morale, but too often, the event feels like one more seasonal chore to employees, rather than being the morale booster they’re intended as. 

• Consider holding the party during business hours 
• If you do hold the party outside of work hours, let employees bring a guest 
• If it’s not too late, get some suggestions or ideas from your people 
• Make sure you have delicious food that everyone can eat 

Avoiding inappropriate Kris Kringle 

It may astound you, but there are employees who need reminding that some gifts are not appropriate for the office Secret Santa. I recommend setting out gift-giving guidelines explaining that items involving politics, religion, or sexually explicit material are not appropriate. 

You could get staff to fill out a little profile about themselves. They may learn a bit about their colleagues they may not have previously known. 

You could also suggest a list of generic gifts such as chocolates or drinks and let a staff profile give an option for a present idea or any dietary requirements. 

We hope everyone has a happy and safe festive season! And that all the work Christmas parties go as smoothly as possible..