Christmas party season is a great opportunity for employers looking to hold more inclusive events. In doing this, your client is not only likely to find some new, fun, ways to celebrate the season with their staff, but also benefit in terms of employee engagement and motivation, by showing their understanding of employee differences, and how not every might enjoy the events they usually hold.
Trying something new
Some employees love being able to bring their pets into work. Maybe some enjoy playing foosball or a pinball machine. And some may enjoy going out for a drink with colleagues after work. The key is; we’re all different. It’s best therefore to make sure celebrations and outings are not centred around alcohol. For some, there may be cultural or health reasons they prefer to stay sober; others may have to get up early for the kids, or like to go for a run, and staying out late would derail their routine.
This could be something as simple holding an afternoon tea party, providing a space and materials for a themed ‘crafternoon’ where employees can enjoy creating something new with their colleagues, or inviting families to a fun day, so parents can show their children where they go and what they do. Or, it could be something else. The best people to inform these choices are the employees themselves, so asking for their thoughts and opinions could be a great way to encourage employee participation and create something truly unique to the organisation.
The return of the zoom quiz?
Whilst many employees will want to be out, about, and seeing people, this may neither be desired nor practical for homeworkers, who may work from home because of:
- geographic distance from the office,
- care responsibilities,
- physical or psychological barriers.
When designing any workplace celebrations, it is important to bear these individuals in mind, as excluding them could lead to employee relations issues or possibly even discrimination claims. Your client can speak to them about what they want. One positive that came out of the various lockdowns is that many businesses now offer ‘at home’ kits for anything from escape rooms to cocktail making, delivered directly to the employee’s door. A group video call could then be arranged to do the activities as a group.
Behaviour expectations
Whatever your client chooses to do this year, they will need to think about employee behaviour. Work organised events, and any after parties or gatherings following on, are likely to be ‘in the course of employment’ ie the employer could be liable for unwanted behaviour at these events. As such, prior to any work events employers should set out their behavioural expectations, encourage employees to behave responsibly, and drink responsibly (where available). The usual disciplinary rules can still be applied to behaviour at these events and reminding employees of this would be a wise move.
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