“Humbug! ‘Worst Holiday Party Slump’ in Decades” HR News :: December 1, 2009

Holiday Party Decreases

81% in 2009

83% in 2001

82% in 1991

2009 Recession Impact

56% of holiday party reductions were blamed on the economy

H1N1 Flu Impact

Office holiday parties may also be challenged by flu outbreaks

Employee Morale

70% of offices not having parties are not planning any morale boosting activities.

“Those companies putting employees f i r s t w i l l s e e R E T E N T I O N B E N E F I T S when the economy t u r n s a r o u n d . ”

53% of events are planned for

the evening

Office Parties with Alcohol

73% in 2009

71% in 2008

70% in 2007

Holiday Party Suggestions

§  Enforce a professional dress code

§  Consider inviting partners or families

§  Make attendance voluntary

Holiday Party Suggestions

§  If serving alcohol, encourage moderation prior to the event

§  Avoid serving hard liquor or drinks that mask alcohol content

§  Have a comprehensive, written anti-harassment policy