Avoid an HR headache: The dos and do nots of office holiday parties

It is that time of the year when festivities take priority over office work. Given the prolonged lockdowns over the past two years; Christmas parties will be in full swing as people look to catch up on reduced social activities in 2021. But before your staff descend on a local restaurant or bar, or even celebrate within the office walls, you might want to consider putting rules in place first.

“The major don’t is no physical contact,” Graham Wynn, recruiter at Superior People, told HRD. “No hugging, kissing, touching and anything of the like – keep your hands to yourself. Handshakes are acceptable if meeting new people but for those you already know there is no need to get physical.”

Another consideration is the topic of conversation. In today’s politically correct world, it is difficult to express views even on the weather without offending someone, so it is best to be very careful what you talk about at a Christmas party, especially if you are feeling relaxed after a few drinks.

“You want to avoid talking about anything related, if possible, as most conversations after a few drinks turn to negative comments about the company or specific staff,” Wynn added. “It is best also to avoid controversial topics, such as politics and/or religion, as these can get out of hand and provoke strong comments, as well as damaging relationships. Keep conversations as basic as possible and try to avoid anything where a strong opinion is required.”

Alcohol is often the undoing of many people at a Christmas party. Feeling relaxed, employees tend to overconsume and built up frustration with a boss or a particular aspect of the company can come to the fore.

“Also, do not decide to tell your manager how you could run the company better,” Wynn told HRD. “Avoid getting drunk and making a fool out of yourself. Remember, this is a work function, not a night out at a nightclub or the pub. Be responsible, and if you are going to drink, arrange for a taxi/uber or a designated driver.”

When it comes to alcohol consumption, it is important companies take responsible action to ensure that if employees have embraced a few too many drinks, that they provide options for transport home. But before it even gets to that stage, employers can set their own rules by only allowing a certain number of drinks per person, as well as providing plenty of non-alcohol alternative options.

“Due to various laws, it is now possible that if an employer provides alcohol, and an employee has an accident driving home, the employer can be held liable,” Wynn said. “Employers should publish written advice that each person attending is responsible for their own alcohol consumption and how they leave the event. Employers can also issue token for a couple of drinks, then after that employees must purchase their own, this way employers can minimalise their potential liability.”

Alcohol consumption is just one area that employers need to consider under work, health and safety laws. A safe environment where any potential hazards are clearly marked and pointed out in advance; highlighted entry and exits areas, as well as any basic rules for the event must be clearly communicated with all employees.

“Employers need to consider work, health and safety regulations to ensure everyone is safe,” Amanda Rose, founder of Small Business Women Australia, added. “Regarding rules, employers need to make sure they’re not coming across as the principal at a school. Having a Christmas party offsite is a safe idea and having an official end time of the Christmas party such as 9pm makes sense so anything after that is considered personal time.

“Instead of rules aim for activities that keep people interested and engaged. Maybe don’t encourage extreme alcohol consumption, such as no spirits at the bar.”

Rose believes that the topic of conversation can be positive if employees look ahead to the future instead of focusing on the year gone.

“Take a genuine interest in peoples’ lives,” she said. “Be motivating after a challenging year. It’s a great environment to talk ideas for 2022. You may get insight into the larger vision of the organisation which may lead to an opportunity.”

Christmas office parties should be fun and there is no reason if you are sensible you can’t have the best office Christmas party ever!