Rose Miller of Pinnacle Human Resources LLC, Albany.
By Rose Miller
It’s that time of the year, when companies are beginning to plan for their company holiday parties.
Employers recognize that holiday parties or some sort of end-of-year celebrations are a good way to foster employee morale, provide networking opportunities and involve the employee’s spouse or significant other with the organization.
The fact is, workplace holiday celebrations in general are primed for potential problems. While the intent might be good, it’s a potential minefield requiring some planning and forethought.
Here are some tips so that your holiday party does not turn out to be a scene from the TV show “The Office.”
• Give a few people the responsibility of keeping an eye on things, just in case anyone misbehaves.
• Put emphasis on activities rather than drinking. It doesn’t have to be all about the bar if you include activities like dancing, awards, raffles or karaoke.
• Consider an alcohol-free party. There’s nothing wrong with a fancy coffee bar party or ice cream socials.
• Limit the amount of alcohol by issuing ticket stubs or having the last-call one hour before the party ends.
• If the party results in any kind of compliant, treat the compliant like you would on a normal workday. The party is an extension of the workplace and the employer needs to address the problem immediately.
• Embrace and celebrate diversity. Try not to link the party to a religious holiday.
• Choose the venue wisely, avoiding a location that might be seen as sexist, for example.
• Include spouses and significant others in the invitation.
• Review liability insurance issues; most don’t cover alcohol-related incidents.
• Don’t hang mistletoe at a company function.
• Check the play list so it’s work-appropriate. Songs such as “Baby Got Back” might not be the best choice for a company party.
• Remind managers that they are on duty.
• Remind employees of the company’s policies on discrimination and harassment. • Refrain from company-sponsored pre-parties and post-parties.
• Hire a taxi service or provide other alternative transportation for persons who have too much to drink.
Employers see holiday parties as a way to recognize employees’ hard work at the end of the year.
This recognition is especially important in tough economic times. With the right amount of planning your holiday party can boost morale without putting your company at risk.
With the right amount of planning, your holiday party can indeed remain jolly.