Most workplaces use a Christmas party as a way to celebrate the year and to thank employees, but how do we ensure the Christmas party is inclusive and appeals to all?
Drinkers, non-drinkers, late-nighters and early-to-bed folk, meat and non-meat eaters, dance lovers and introvert no noisers… whatever you do, consider the people of your organisation and what may be a best fit solution.
A party can take many forms, but if alcohol is going to be involved, serve it responsibly and preferably involve food too.
Alternative Christmas celebrations have taken the form of:
- Games and quiz nights
- Treasure hunts
- Escape room activities
- Bowling/axe throwing
- Company meal out with optional dancing after at a nightclub
Whatever you decide, managers will be required to keep their manager Christmas hats on and intervene quickly if there is even the slightest inkling of inappropriate behaviour (alcohol-fuelled or not).
Complaints are often made after work functions, especially when photos or comments are posted on social media during or after the event.
It is wise to review and communicate your social media policy before the celebrations start.
Tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable Christmas party include:- Choose a venue that is appropriate for planned activities
- Remind staff about workplace policies, including your code of conduct, bullying and sexual harassment policies
- Review and communicate your social media policy
- Serve alcohol responsibly (this includes ensuring no alcohol is served to underage staff, and limiting or denying alcohol to intoxicated staff)
- Ensure managers and senior staff members set a good example and model appropriate behaviours
- Provide food and non-alcoholic drinks
- Set appropriate start and finish times for the function
- Choose a venue with access to public transport or facilitate safe transport options for staff who have been drinking (e.g. cab-charges, or designated drivers who won’t be drinking alcohol)
- Consider appointing a responsible person to monitor the event and to be a point of contact in the event of anything going wrong, (this person should be familiar with workplace safety policies and have the authority to act on any issues that arise)
https://elcons.org/christmas-parties-what-employers-should-consider/
