Mistletoe, Mayhem, and Moderation: How to Navigate the Christmas Party

I can hardly believe it’s December already! As we approach the end of the year, it’s officially the season of goodwill and celebrations, with many companies gearing up to host Christmas or end-of-year parties. While these events are a fantastic opportunity for colleagues to bond and unwind, they’ve always made me a little nervous. Mixing people, fun, and alcohol can lead to unpredictable outcomes—though, in my experience, they’ve mostly been positive. 

Let me share a story from my early HR days. Back then, I was put on the Social Committee, probably because I was young and they assumed I was cool. (Spoiler alert: I wasn’t.) Our Christmas party was held at the King’s Inns in Dublin, a venue straight out of a Harry Potter movie. The event coordinator warned us that any stains or damage to the furniture would mean losing our deposit. I spent the entire evening hovering like a hawk, watching drinks teeter precariously on tables as though my own money and furniture were at stake. Thankfully, no disasters occurred, and we got our deposit back. In hindsight, I’ve never cared so much about furniture that wasn’t mine.

On a more serious note, office parties are a double-edged sword. They’re fantastic for fostering camaraderie and allowing employees to blow off some steam. However, with a little alcohol, people can sometimes overshare with colleagues or even their boss—a recipe for regret the following morning. Others might see the party as an opportunity to air grievances with management. While this may feel cathartic in the moment, it’s rarely productive. 

A Few Tips for Employees 

If you’re attending an office party, remember that it’s still a work event. A little caution can go a long way:

• Think before you speak. Oversharing or venting might feel good at the moment, but it can have consequences the next day.
• Moderation is key. Enjoy the drinks, but know your limits. Nobody wants to be the star of the office gossip on Monday morning.

Advice for Leaders and Companies

For employers, it’s essential to balance allowing employees to relax and ensuring the event stays professional. Here are some practical steps to consider:

• A Party Is an Extension of the Workplace

Remember, an office party is still a company event. As such, all workplace policies and procedures apply. Your company’s code of conduct protects employees, and any inappropriate behaviour must be addressed as it would during regular work hours.

 When I attend these parties, I often become a magnet for conversations about what the company could do better or, more awkwardly, about compensation. My go-to response? “Thanks for sharing! Why don’t you schedule some time with me tomorrow to discuss?” Spoiler alert: they never do. Maybe the party atmosphere works as a built-in reset button for those grievances!

• Set Expectations in Advance

Before the event, send a friendly reminder to all employees, reinforcing that this is a work function and linking it to your company’s policies. This subtle nudge can make a big difference.

• Manage Alcohol Consumption

To limit alcohol consumption, avoid an open bar and opt for drink vouchers. This approach helps maintain a festive atmosphere while reducing the risk of overindulgence.

• Encourage Inclusivity

   Not everyone celebrates Christmas, so consider branding the event as an “End-of-Year” party. Ensure that the activities and venue are inclusive so that all employees feel comfortable participating.

• Plan Ahead for Safety

Arrange transport options for attendees, such as pre-booked taxis or a shuttle service, to ensure everyone gets home safely.

As we tie up the year, office parties are such a delightful tradition and a fantastic chance to honor all the hard work we've done together. With a bit of thoughtful planning, we can make these celebrations truly memorable! Whether you’re the host or a guest, let's all do our part to create an unforgettable experience—one that brings smiles and joy. Here's to a wonderful and safe holiday season for everyone!