The work Christmas party. Keeping it fun for your employees,… and you!
As the festive season approaches, you might be getting started with preparing an amazing Christmas party to thank your people for everything they have contributed to the business this year.
Events like this, and others across the year, can be a great opportunity for you and your team to get together, unwind, celebrate, and enjoy yourselves.
Something you shouldn’t overlook in your planning for these events is your responsibility to look after your employees, remembering that your business will be liable for their behaviour at these events.
Whether the party is held at your own workplace or somewhere else, employers are legally accountable for any misconduct that takes place. That includes acts of discrimination, harassment, or victimisation.
As a HR consultant, often I find myself dealing with the fall out from Christmas parties after they have taken place. I see it every single year. The scary part is that often businesses don’t realise they are liable for their employees behaviour at these events and don’t give enough consideration to this before the party takes place by setting expectations.
I want to share with you 4 tips to allow you to have a wonderful Christmas party without any of the post party “issues”.
Celebrate responsibly
Remind employees that the party is a chance to relax and have fun while celebrating the hard work everyone has contributed over the year.
The party is an extension of the workplace
Remind your team that social events organised by the company are considered a continuation of the work environment. For that reason, workplace rules and expectations apply and that inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated.
Reinforce appropriate behaviour
Clearly outline that appropriate behaviour expectations remains in place. I’d highly recommend that you provide examples of unacceptable conduct, including sexual harassment, and ensure everyone understands the boundaries. (Sexual harassment is a key topic just now which I covered in last months newsletter…if you didn’t see that article you may want to take a look).
Responsible alcohol use
Remind employees to be mindful of their alcohol consumption.
Remind them not to drive under the influence or report for work intoxicated the following day if they are scheduled to work.
By setting expectations in advance, in a way that feels appropriate for your business, you ensure that the party that you worked hard to arrange is a fun and safe event for everyone involved. Who doesn’t want to return to work with memories of a great event, not a raft of issues to deal with relating to inappropriate behaviour.
If you need help around implementing any of this in advance of your festive activities, or anything else relation to HR and people, you can put some time in my diary for a confidential chat here (link: https://calendly.com/blackkat-hr/20-minute-exploration-call) or drop me over an email at [email protected]
Author's Bio
Kat Derbyshire is the Founder of Black Kat HR Ltd.
She is a BMC Trusted Partner.
Black Kat HR are an independent HR consultancy who work with a variety of companies both on one-off projects and on a retainer basis.
An expert in her field, Kat can be contacted on [email protected]
