Community Chest: Christmas parties

1 minute read  |  November 27, 2017

Open bar means potential trouble 

While you would be seen as the best boss in the world at the start, once people have had their limit and then some, the chances of you having to stop a fight, dry tears or send someone home early in a taxi cradling a bin is likely to be increased substantially.

A set amount of drinks vouchers is one way to ensure that you are still happy for people to enjoy themselves, but without inviting risk. 

Middle of the week 

While a number of employees would love to have a Friday night Christmas party, the reality is that you’re much better off having a mid-week bash. Knowing they have to be in work the next day will hold a majority of people back.

Unauthorised absence

Set a limit to how many people can book the following day off and warn people in advance that unauthorised absence will not be tolerated. Ultimately some will risk it, but knowing that they won’t be paid for the absence will detract from an influx of pre-shift calls.

Attendance is mandatory 

Don’t be one of those companies who tries to force people into attending. Some employees prefer not to get involved in the social side of the workplace and that’s fine! Don’t guilt people into attending, to each their own.

On the clock

Before the party remind everyone in attendance that they are still on the clock and anyone acting in an inappropriate way will be dealt with as though they are still in the office.

So, there you have it, advice and guidance from those in the know on the office Christmas party. Let us know if these helped or whether there’s something we’ve missed at [email protected] or visit our pages on social media and use hashtag #MSLCommunityChest

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