news
stress level, such as leaving a little early to get holiday shopping
and other tasks done.
■■ Eat, exercise and be merry. It’s impossible to enjoy the holiday
season if you don’t prioritize your physical and mental health.
Take regular breaks during the day to refuel, rest or stretch.
HOW CANADIAN WORKERS REALLY FEEL ABOUT
COMPANY HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS
When it comes to office holiday celebrations, not all parties are
created equal. In a recent survey by staffing firm OfficeTeam,
29 per cent of Canadian workers describe these celebrations as
“fun,”while 40 per cent felt less enthused.
POPPING THE BUBBLY?
Black-tie galas and festive ice sculptures may be a thing of the past
– only 13 per cent of workers polled said they'd categorize their
company holiday parties as extravagant.
HOLIDAY HANGOUT OR SMOOTH CAREER MOVE?
Professionals aren’t necessarily counting down the days until their
company shindig. Slightly more than one in five of those surveyed
described their holiday parties as obligatory.
However, Koula Vasilopoulos, a district president for
OfficeTeam, advises workers not to duck out too fast.
“Holiday events offer a less formal opportunity to build relation-ships
with colleagues and executives in areas of the organization
you may not otherwise have exposure to,” said Vasilopoulos.
“Taking the time to participate in festivities can improve visibility
within the company, while also helping to encourage office camara-derie
and establish a more collaborative and enjoyable workplace.”
OfficeTeam offers tips for employees to navigate holiday parties
and employers who want to plan successful celebrations:
Tips for Employees Tips for Employers
Mix and mingle. Socialize
with coworkers outside
your usual circle. These
celebrations are an
opportunity to meet people
you don’t work with every
day.
Ask for input. Survey
your staff to see how
people want to celebrate.
Feedback on venue, food
and timing will get planning
off to a good start.
Curb shoptalk. This is
your chance to get to
know colleagues in a
social setting, so don’t
make it all about business.
Conversation starters can
include holiday plans or
New Year’s resolutions.
Build a buzz. Get the word
out early. Talk up the event
with management in all
departments, and don’t shy
away from reaching out to
employees individually.
Don’t be a scrooge.
Though holiday time can
be stressful for some,
keep your discussions
positive and upbeat. Avoid
controversial topics such
as politics and gossip.
Get creative. A big budget
isn’t the only way to throw
a successful holiday party.
Brainstorm unique ways to
build camaraderie without
breaking the bank.
Limit libations. ’Tis the
season to party, but not too
hard. Drink in moderation
and remember holiday
parties are still work
functions.
Show appreciation.
Employees want to feel
recognized for their hard
work. Incorporate an
element into the festivities
that shows your gratitude.
Mr Twister / Shutterstock.com
SOCIALIZE WITH COWORKERS
OUTSIDE YOUR USUAL
CIRCLE. THESE CELEBRATIONS
ARE AN OPPORTUNITY TO
MEET PEOPLE YOU DON’T
WORK WITH EVERY DAY.
10 ❚ DECEMBER 2017 ❚ HR PROFESSIONAL