It’s workplace holiday party season! Employers, here are some quick tips to make sure that your holiday party is a positive, memorable event for all, and not an infamous one.
- Keep decor secular and not specific to any religion
- Make attendance voluntary (especially if you don’t want to be obligated to compensate non-exempt employees for attending)
- Ensure you have current policies addressing consumption of alcohol and other substances, harassment/discrimination, and professional conduct at work-related events, and remind employees to act in accordance with those policies at your holiday party (and after-party and after-after-party)
- Remind supervisors and managers of their obligation to report any conduct that may violate Company policies that they see or become aware of
- Remind all that the “workplace” is not only the physical office space – it includes work-related events
This time of year is always a good time to take stock of your policies and ensure they are enforced both in and outside the office.
This will help ensure a joyful, happy holiday season for all!