This is the seventh in a ten-part series
Part One - Bullying
Part Two - Egotism
Part Three - Conflict in the workplace
Part Four - Career timing
Part five - Not renewing practising certificate
Part six - Poaching clients
By Daniela Aroche
'Tis the season to be merry, but employees keen to move ahead in the coming year should be careful to avoid over-drinking, amorous Christmas cuddles and general bad behaviour during their firm's holiday festivities.
According to Caroline Vickers-Willis, the marketing manager for recruitment agency RossJuliaRoss, lawyers in particular need to display proper conduct at work-related Christmas functions. If they don't, a slip-up could cost them their reputation and in some cases even their job. "Although improper conduct in any work environment can have negative consequences, in the legal profession an employee's reputation is important for their firm, their clients and themselves so it's important to make sure your behaviours reflect the type of reputation you wish to have," Vickers-Willis said.
"The extent of the potential damage usually depends on the extent or the impropriety of the behaviour. But the negative consequences of improper behaviour at these events can include damaged promotion prospects, legal infringements or even loss of one's position if the behaviour was extremely inappropriate."
Although Vickers-Willis added that it's not 'commonplace' for significantly negative events to occur during the holiday party season, it is arguably that time of year when most employees could be at risk of 'enjoying' a networking or firm social event a little too much for their own good. It's important to remember where to draw the line. "Many things can fall under the category of 'improper conduct', depending upon the policies of the employer and the laws of the country in which you are working," said Vickers-Willis.
"So it's important to know the laws, policies procedures and expectations of the place where you're working as well as of your host in advance. Use commonsense and don't assume that just because you hold particular opinions or beliefs, they are shared by everyone else in attendance. If alcohol is being served, keep your intake moderate and manageable so your judgement isn't impaired," she said.
However, Vickers-Willis warns that not turning up to the firm Christmas function in an attempt to bypass any awkward moments could be a career blunder in itself. "Do attend if you can," she added. "It's a great opportunity for everyone to engage with each other in a less structured and busy environment and build those relationships that are so important to enjoying our time at work."
"Make sure you enjoy yourself, but also conduct yourself professionally at all times. Although office parties are social events to reward employees and raise morale, they remain strictly business events. Your colleagues have long memories!"
Top eight dos and don'ts for the office Christmas party
Don't:
1. Use the office party as an excuse to blow off steam, serve a log of complaints or compare the boss to Santa because he only works one day per year! It's still a company function, so proper etiquette and decorum matter
2. Get into your favourite nightclub outfit for the event. Ask whether the dress is formal or casual: the party is still a business function so conservative party clothes are a good choice (nothing too revealing). Overall the best thing to show off is your style and good taste
3. Spend all evening talking business. You'll end up with a reputation as the office bore
Do:
4. Keep your hands to yourself. The office party is not the time to end your career with the company by doing something inappropriate or illegal
5. Keep all conversations positive and upbeat. Don't spend the evening complaining, bragging, correcting, whining, or ridiculing. Avoid controversial subjects or topics of conversation (such as religion, politics, etc.)
6. Be gracious and thank co-workers and team members for their help and hard work during the past year. And don't even think about gossiping about others
7. Keep your drink in your left hand, so your right is dry and free to shake everyone's hand
8. Be tolerant and respectful of those who don't celebrate Christmas - pick a more appropriate time for a religious or philosophical debate
Source: RossJuliaRoss