TUC Poll on Work Christmas Party Embarrassment

More than one in ten (11%) workers who have attended a work Christmas party admit embarrassing themselves in front of their boss, according to new polling published by the TUC today.

Drinking and Embarrassing Incidents at the Festive Bash

The poll, carried out for the TUC by YouGov, also reveals that two in five (40%) employees have gotten drunk at their work Christmas party, with men (45%) more likely to over-indulge than women (35%). The survey finds that, of those who have attended a work Christmas party:

• One in 11 (9%) workers has thrown up.
• One in 12 (8%) employees has revealed something embarrassing about themselves to a colleague.
• More than a quarter (27%) of 18–24 year-olds have had a dance-off with a co-worker, compared to only 8% of 25–39 year-olds, 4% of 40–49 year-olds and 3% of those 60 and over.

TUC’s Suggestions for Employers

To make sure the Christmas party is remembered for all the right reasons, the TUC suggests employers should:

• Keep it affordable. If you’re going to charge staff, make sure everyone can afford it. Scale back extravagance so all can attend without feeling pressured.
• Offer non-alcoholic options. Provide plenty of soft drinks for non-drinkers or those wanting a break from the booze.
• Avoid serious topics. The party isn’t the right time for managers to discuss performance reviews or other HR issues—keep it light and friendly.
• Plan safe travel. Think about arranging transport home or at least publish the last train times and contacts for reputable local cab companies.

TUC’s Tips for Employees

Staff also play a big part in ensuring the party goes smoothly. To make the most of the festive occasion, workers should:

• Resist major conversations. Avoid complaining about colleagues or requesting a pay rise—save those discussions for office hours.
• Be mindful of behaviour. Don’t say or do anything that could upset or insult someone, even if you’re feeling emboldened by festive cheer.
• Think before you post. Resist sharing embarrassing pictures of your boss or colleagues on social media.
• Plan recovery time. Consider booking leave after the party if you expect to be too tired to work.

Comment from TUC General Secretary

“Christmas parties are a great way to celebrate a year’s hard work and let your hair down with colleagues,” said Frances O’Grady. “However, workers and bosses need to remember that they are still in a work setting. No one wants to make a fool of themselves in front of colleagues—or worse, do something that will get them sacked at Christmas. Use your common sense and have a happy and safe night.”

See Also

• One in Ten Workers Admit Embarrassing Themselves at Work Christmas Party
• Annual Leave Guidance for UK Workers
• Revealed: How Sports Direct Pays Below Minimum Wage

All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. The total sample size was 1,695 adults, of which 1,406 had been to a work Christmas party. Fieldwork was undertaken between 25 and 26 November 2015. The survey was carried out online and is representative of all GB adults (aged 18+).

All TUC press releases can be found at www.tuc.org.uk. Follow the TUC on Twitter: @The_TUC and the press team @tucnews.