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Avoiding HR issues at the Christmas work party

December 17, 2018

Christmas parties have long been the birthplace of bad ideas, inappropriate behaviours and regrets. Thanks to social media these are no longer kept to hushed whispers, sideways glances and HR meetings.  One person with a smartphone can cause a PR disaster

To think that you’d be better off cancelling the whole thing and saving yourself the headache and expense is quite understandable.

But before you rush into anything, remember that your staff have worked hard, and they deserve an opportunity to let their hair down. A festive get-together could prove to be just what you need to show your appreciation of their efforts and boost morale. The festive season can bring many distractions into the workplace but what’s important here is that you’re suitably prepared.

Here are a few things that could help avoid HR issues at your works party: 

Remind your staff of your company standards

Whilst your staff are adults and therefore should know how to behave and conduct themselves appropriately at both work and in related social situations, issuing a reminder at this time of year could be considered prudent. Additionally, considerations and reminders regarding representing the company and social media usage should also be highlighted. Providing clear and concise standards and consequences for behaviour that falls short of your company’s standards should be clear.

Plan for success

The more planning and consideration that goes into your works function the less likely it is that things will go wrong. For example, a free bar but limited food is almost always an invitation to disaster.

Consider your event location and transportation of staff. What day of the week are you planning on holding the event, will they need to be in the workplace the next day?

What makes a good works Christmas party?

There are no set rules or format for what makes a good time. Not everyone drinks or likes a formal sit-down meal, and active events such as go-carting or paintballing is not going to be on everyone’s wish list. Whilst pleasing everyone can be an impossible task, especially with a large team, it makes sense to consider the preferences of your team. 

Consideration of dietary requirements is essential, the recent Pret-a-manger case highlights how seriously this issue needs to be taken. No matter how hard you have tried to make your Christmas function interesting or exciting, there may well be some that are just not interested in attending.  There are many valid reasons why this might be the case and no staff should be concerned about not making an appearance.

You can enjoy it too!

With the planning done and behaviour standards clear in your staff’s minds, you should be able to celebrate your Christmas party alongside your team.  The ‘works do’ is a time to relax and build on the relationships you have with your staff in a less pressurised environment.

If you are unsure how to have the conversations with your staff or need social media policies in advance of this year’s Christmas party, and you’d like to take the opportunity to chat with an HR expert, then contact us.