The office Christmas party – a time to let your hair down or be cautious?

‘Tis the season when attention starts to turn to the office Christmas party and the festive list of do’s and don’ts to avoid something much worse than a nasty hangover long after the revelry has finished.

Christmas is a time to celebrate and be jolly and what better way to do so than getting together with colleagues and having a party.

But while the focus should be on having a good time outside of the usual working environment, it would be remiss not to give a somewhat less than gentle reminder it can also be a recipe for disaster.

The festive party, alcohol, the sense you can talk freely and say what you want, the freedom to let your hair down, opportunity to show your true colours in a social setting that may feel as if it is non-judgmental, can be an exhilarating mix.

The office bash is an event when colleagues come together to celebrate, have fun, share laughter, in a way that can create a sense of friendship that extends beyond the confines of the workplace.

Often as the night unfolds, the dancefloor can become a focal point for the event with employees showing off their dance moves, and others maybe attempting to do so in their own unique and not quite so rhythmic way.

Workmates, who may have spent the year engrossed in work-related tasks, can find themselves sharing laughter, creating memories on the dancefloor and strengthening working relationships.

Amidst the laughter, music, and festive cheer, the office Christmas party should serve as a reminder of the importance of workplace culture and camaraderie.

It is a time to reflect on the accomplishments of the year, for an employer to express gratitude for the collective efforts of the team, and look forward to a new year filled with opportunities and challenges.

At the end of the night, colleagues can go their separate ways with a renewed sense of connection and shared joy.

But it is not unusual for a partygoer to step out of line at the office Christmas party and maybe say something inappropriate or behave badly.

It can directly lead, and in some cases has led, to an employee raising a grievance against a colleague when back at work (1) [cited 4/12.23] 

There is also every likelihood that any bad behviour may be captured on camera and subsequently posted on social media. It is another ingredient to the mix that can spell trouble at the annual office get-together.

What may at the time seem like a fun or embarrassing moment, could cause harm to an individual or reputation of an employer if it is considered inappropriate.

Be warned, because you can be disciplined for any type of misconduct at a work Christmas party.

It can be considered an extension of the workplace.  The same rules of conduct apply, including the social media policy (2) [cited 4/12.23] 

After the party is over it is not unusual, or unheard of, for an employee to be facing serious allegations of  physical violence, bullying, obscene and abusive behaviour or sexual harassment.

Past events prove it is not uncommon for the fallout from the office Christmas party to end up being considered by a judge at an employment tribunal (3) [cited 4/12.23] 

In one such case, a ‘well-regarded’ employee who was involved in organising the Christmas party was dismissed by his employer after being caught up in what was described as both a ‘tussle’ and ‘wrestling match’ with a colleague (4) [cited 4/12.23] 

And in another case, an operative who was walking home with a group of colleagues after the festive bash was dismissed after having a disagreement with a coworker who he punched in the face

Now no one ever wants to be a party pooper, but  it is advisable to be on your best behaviour at your work Christmas party and avoid any actions that could harm your own reputation or that of your employer.

If you want to enjoy the festive event without any regrets, you should follow the guidelines and expectations set by your employer and respect your colleagues and the venue staff.

In a bid to try to help to ensure you have an enjoyable and trouble free office Christmas party we have searched various online sources to provide you with a list of some important do’s and don’ts:

Do RSVP and get there on time. It is nice to let your employer know whether or not you plan to attend, and to arrive at the party when it starts.

Do dress appropriately and comfortably. If it is a formal setting or fancy dress, you should follow the dress code for the party. Avoid wearing anything too revealing, flashy, or casual, wear something you feel good in and that suits the weather and the venue.

Do eat something before the party. You should eat before drinking alcohol because it can help slow the negative effects of booze on your body and brain. Eating before drinking can also help you to feel full and prevent overeating or binge drinking later on.

Do mingle and network with your colleagues. It is an ideal opportunity to get to know your workmates better and to make a good impression on your boss or clients. Be friendly, respectful, and positive, and avoid talking too much about work-related issues or gossiping about others.

Do have fun and enjoy yourself. The event is supposed to be a celebration of your achievements and a reward for your hard work. Participate in any activities, games, and entertainment and show your appreciation to the organisers and the hosts.

Don’t be the first or the last to leave. You do not want to appear rude or uninterested by leaving too early, or to overstay your welcome by leaving too late. Find a good balance and leave around the same time as most of the other partygoers.

Don’t ask your employer to pay for the party. You should respect your employer’s budget and not expect them to cover the costs of the party entirely. You should also not ask for any extra perks or bonuses at the party, as it is not the appropriate time or place to do so.

Don’t behave inappropriately or offensively. To reiterate an earlier point, the party is still a work-related event and the same rules of conduct apply. Any act of misconduct could still lead to you being subject of a disciplinary investigation (5) [cited 4/12.23] 

Don’t post anything embarrassing or compromising on social media. While you may want to show people you are having a good time by posting pictures or videos on social media, you should be careful about what you share. Respect your colleagues’ privacy and wishes and do not post anything without their consent.

Don’t regret anything the next day. You should try to have a good time at the party, but also be responsible and sensible. You should not do anything that you would regret later, such as saying something rude, making a scene, or hooking up with a coworker.

And finally

There can be few better ways to embrace the festive spirit than with the annual office Christmas party, which offers employees a chance to unwind, connect, and revel in the joyous atmosphere of the season.

Following the do’s and don’ts of the Christmas party can help to create memories that linger and serve as a reminder that beyond the confines of the workplace, deadlines and meetings, there is a community of individuals who can come together to celebrate, support each other and have fun together.