Do’s and don’ts during workplace Christmas parties: A guide to workplace etiquette in the silly season

To help you and your employees navigate the Christmas period, we’ve compiled a list of regulations and best practices to ensure everyone stays safe and respectful. This information may help you better communicate and manage expectations with employees prior to and during your Christmas-related activities in regards to dress code, behaviour, substance use and transportation. 

Dress code for the holiday party during work hours

Some companies prefer to keep their parties small and during normal work hours. If this is the case for you, then you’ll likely opt for work-appropriate attire. It’s advisable to stick with the office dress code policy unless you’re provided with guidelines on how to dress differently for the event.

Dress code for the holiday party after work hours

After-hours holiday parties can be a lot of fun. They give you an opportunity to let your hair down, relax a bit, and connect with coworkers outside of the typical office environment. However, that doesn’t mean you can forget that you are still around co-workers and at a work function. You want to have fun but consider that what you wear and what happens at the party will be remembered by those you see daily in a professional environment.

Drugs and alcohol

Food and drinks will be provided at Christmas parties including alcoholic beverages. If you choose to drink alcohol, you must ensure that you drink responsibly. Drinking responsibly involves not drinking excessively to become ‘drunk’ and eating enough to ensure the effects of alcohol are reduced. If you have any special dietary requirements regarding food or drink, please let the Human Resources Manager know before the party.

Workplace drug and alcohol policies apply to the Christmas party as a work function. The use of illegal drugs and excessive consumption of alcohol is prohibited at all times during the Christmas party. Employers reserve the right to require the venue to refuse service of alcohol to any member of staff who is behaving inappropriately.

Behaviour at the party

The Christmas party is an opportunity for everyone to celebrate and enjoy themselves. However, please remember the party is a work function and accordingly, you must behave appropriately. Work Health Safe policies still apply to the Christmas party. You should ensure that you have read and understood the Policy or the standard of conduct expected of you at the party.

Transport

If you are drinking alcohol at the Christmas party, you should not drive. Arranging alternate transport prior to the event is the best option in this instance.