Christmas party time
by Sarah
It is already December and Christmas is fast approaching. We are now festive in the office as we have our Christmas tree up. We are not having our Christmas party for a few more weeks but my other half’s Christmas party is next week which seems very early this year.
Christmas parties always produce some employment law horror stories from the pranks that went to far to the being groped under the mistletoe by the MD. If the party is arranged by work, paid for by work and attended by only employees then this is likely to be an extension of work and so any events which take place at the party which are unacceptable may land the employee in question in hot water. The line becomes more grey when partners or family are invited where this may still be an extension of work depending on the circumstances. Then there are the get togethers, not paid for by work but attended by just work colleagues which depending on the facts could go either way.
So some tips from the employment lawyer for a smooth christmas party:
1. Don’t hang up any mistletoe - for the office letch this may be just too much temptation.
2. Ask employees to bear in mind that they are representing the company at the public event or remind them that the usual standards apply.
3. Supply some entertainment other than just the all you can drink bar or you are asking for trouble.
4. Use your judgement with entertainment and do not order anything too risky that may offend.
5. Finally, relax and let people have some fun. I have heard stories of christmas parties being banned for fear of the consequences. Bar humbug!
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