How to Sleigh Holiday Celebrations at Work

It’s that time of year when it seems like there’s a party, happy hour, or team gathering every other day. Gift exchanges and office parties are a welcome distraction from the day-to-day routine, and while holiday events can be fun, they can also present some hard-to-navigate situations.?

To help you avoid any potential not-so-merry mishaps, here are some of my tried-and-true best practices for the most wonderful time of the year.

Giving gifts at work can be tricky. If you’re participating in an office exchange this season, here are some quick tips to nail your office gifting assignment.

• Choose one gift for everyone. This requires less decision making and people comparing who got the better gift!
• Keep the vibe lighthearted and workplace-appropriate. Think about something fun and practical that anyone could enjoy. Maybe it’s a blanket to keep at their desk if the office is notoriously cold, or maybe it’s a giftcard to the coffee place down the street for an unexpected afternoon treat.
• Spend what works for you because it really is the thought that counts. If you just don’t have it in your budget to share gifts, trust me when I say homemade treats go a long way.?

And a big part of end-of-year festivities are office holiday parties. While these gatherings may spark joy for some, others may find themselves feeling a bit like the Grinch. Here are a few ways to keep the celebration merry and bright (and professional!)

• Lean into the spirit of the season. Whether your company's party takes place on Teams, in the office breakroom or a nearby brewery, take a moment to enjoy the festive atmosphere. It's a chance to reflect on the year’s highlights and achievements with your colleagues, and end the year on a positive note.
• In today's hybrid work world, gathering the entire team can be rare. Embrace your inner Rudolph and take advantage of this opportunity to build relationships with your colleagues – strike up conversations, share holiday stories to strengthen bonds, and build a stronger sense of community.?
• Don’t forget to mind your manners. While merriment is encouraged, remember the event is still work-related and work-sponsored. Enjoy the outing, just conduct yourself with the same respect and consideration you would in a typical work setting. A good rule of thumb is to not do anything you wouldn’t want published on the front page of the Wall Street Journal!
• Lastly, some people choose to celebrate holidays privately or not at all. Respect those around you who have different beliefs or traditions, and don’t pressure anyone to attend or participate in something they don’t want to do. In fact, we worked with the Wall Street Journal recently and found that more than half of professionals aren’t planning to attend their company holiday parties .

As you navigate the holiday season this year, remember that holiday etiquette at work is not just about presents and parties; it's about fostering a spirit of camaraderie and goodwill. So, whether you're exchanging gifts, sharing laughs at the holiday party, or simply expressing gratitude, let the warmth of the season extend to your office relationships. Wishing you a joyous holiday season filled with shared moments and a thriving, collaborative spirit at your workplace. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!