Whilst this may be a chance to really let your hair down and see out 2022 in style, you are still considered ‘at work’ – as the annual Christmas shindig is still an official work function. It is an extension of the workplace and all the usual rules apply – including being disciplined. Punching your manager may seem like a good idea at the time however it is no more acceptable at the Christmas party than it would be in the office on Monday morning.
If you are drinking – be sensible. Eat enough, drink plenty of water. No one wants to be the talk of the office for being ‘that person’. Again, being sick all over the CEO is no more acceptable at the Christmas party than it in the office.
Office hook-ups – see above.
DON’T drive – download Ola or Zoomy and ensure you get home safely.
Note that an employer can be held liable for injuries and actions of its employees at a Christmas party therefore it is only right that it can also initiate disciplinary proceeding up to dismissal.
We are regularly asked for advice in the run up to the festive season and are often approached in the final work days of December or at the beginning of January, when things have gone a bit pear-shaped. If this instance, we are here to help, however – prevention is usually better than the cure.
Keep yourself safe, merry and employed in the New Year.
