How do you balance festive cheer with appropriate workplace conduct at your upcoming office holiday party? Here are a few tips:
Be Inclusive
- Keep your office holiday party theme non-denominational to recognize that your staff may practice different faiths;
- Emphasize to your employees that participation in any office holiday activity is entirely voluntary.
Maintain a Respectful Environment
- Remind your staff of your respectful workplace policy and dress code well in advance of the holiday party;
- Remember that you have a duty to investigate any complaint or incident of alleged harassment that occurs at a work-related social event.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
- Set a time period where alcoholic beverages will be served;
- Provide one or two drink tickets per guest, rather than having an open bar;
- Hire a licensed bartender who has experience and training to identify, prevent and address over-consumption;
- Serve food and non-alcoholic beverage options.
Place Safety Above All Else
- Host the office holiday party at a hotel or restaurant which has proper licensing and liability insurance;
- Encourage employees to take public transportation or to make advance arrangements for a safe ride home (e.g. providing taxi vouchers);
- Make advance arrangements with a hotel to provide discounted rates to employees who choose to stay overnight rather than go home.
Focus on Giving Back
- Get your staff involved with choosing a charity or community group to support;
- Consider making a donation to this charity or group in lieu of corporate gifts;
- If possible, allow your employees time to volunteer during this festive season.
All the best to you and yours during this festive season! If you have any questions about maintaining the right balance between festive cheer and Scrooge-like rules for your office holiday party, please contact Vancouver-based Clear HR Consulting.
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