Christmas is a time for celebration, appreciation and fun, but it can also be a real headache from a HR perspective. In this blog we cover some of the potential issues and how best to prevent them, ensuring everyone has a great time!
Alcohol or No Alcohol?
Do your work events usually involve alcohol? If so, it’s crucial to consider those who don’t drink to avoid unintentionally excluding individuals or, even worse, giving rise to grievances and claims 🍷 🚫
Many people like a drink, but there are also people who abstain from drinking due to health reasons, religious beliefs or personal choice. With so much peer pressure at this time of year, these people can quite often feel alienated and anxious. They can contemplate not attending, fearing other people’s judgement and expectation of them not to partake – especially when there is the allure of a few bar.
Alcohol can lead to a number of sobering problems for HR:
- Inappropriate sexual advances
- Respecting people’s decision not to drink
- Inappropriate conduct
For some tips and advice on how best to deal with these, please read our blog: Alcohol at the Christmas Party: How to Prevent 3 Sobering HR Problems
When Secret Santa Goes Wrong
Planning Secret Santa in your workplace, perhaps as part of your annual Christmas party? These festive gift swaps can be a great way to enjoy some light-hearted fun with colleagues during the holiday season – if managed correctly 🎄🎁
However, there can be a few pitfalls to avoid and situations to consider! Firstly, be mindful that what may feel like a harmless gift prank for one person, may fell offensive to another. It’s very easy for gifts to be taken the wrong way. Secondly, we never know what’s going on in people’s lives outside of work. For those not so financially secure, the feeling of obligation to take part, when they’re on a very tight budget for Christmas, may leave them feeling anxious, low or even excluded. Always remember:
- Don’t force participation
- Clearly state the budget and deadline
- Offer some inspiration
For more top tips on ensuring Secret Santa goes smoothly – including setting budgets at a time where disposable income is scarce – read our blog: Secret Santa: 3 Ways to Keep Gift-Giving Fun, Without Unwrapping HR Issues
Did You Get the Memo?
Christmas parties can be a catalyst for HR issues. Whether employees act inappropriately after too much to drink, take the opportunity to unleash a year’s worth of pent-up frustrations, or even end up in a physical altercation with a colleague, the potential for problems is high 🎄😬
Why not get on the front foot by setting guidelines for staff to follow? Download our handy Christmas Party Memo Template
Disclaimer: The information and advice provided in this blog are correct at the time of publishing. Employment law is subject to change, and while we strive to keep our content current and accurate, we recommend consulting with one of our legal professionals or checking the latest regulations via official sources for the most up-to-date information. Vista Employer Services is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this blog.