LIKE most places, The Guardian had a Christmas party.
It was by no means an overstated affair: a barbecue at Murray Downs Country Club and some casual drinks, just perfect for our team.
That being said, things can get a little out of hand when you’re blowing off steam at the end of the year.
Giving terrible Kris Kringle (or Secret Santa — depending on where you’re from) gifts can be another. I got our general manager Rob Duffield a dolphin calendar.
Suffice to say he’s not a fan of dolphins and so will be re-gifting this unwanted item to some other lucky individual.
While plenty of people want to have a bit of fun with their gift giving, be sure not to overstep the line. Offensive gifts are both not only innapropriate, they could be seen as a form of workplace harrasment.
Drinking excessively can be one of the biggest ways to make a fool out of yourself at Christmas parties. This behaviour can also lead to a range of issues.
These might include an injury, unrequited sexual advances or just a loss of dignity.
In my past experience (thankfully not this year) there is often a lecherous older member of staff who likes to get a little too close to some of the younger staff members, if you know what I mean.
Taking the party on the road is a good indication that everyone may have already had a little too much to drink. Know when to call stumps.
Especially if you are in management, remember to set a good example.
One thing to be mindful of, equally for the employer as the employee, is what happens at the Christmas party doesn’t necessarily stay at the Christmas party.
Legally the Christmas party is a work function so rules such as workplace bullying, sexual harassment and injury still apply.
So please, take care this Christmas party season, and you can apply these sage fables to your general Christmas celebrations with family and friends as well.
Have a wonderful Christmas.
