Season of goodwill ñ more myth than reality in UK organisations

A ëScrooge mentalityí has emerged throughout the UK, with many organisations placing restrictions on festive celebrations. Although the majority of employers do host a party, the Chartered Management Instituteís annual ëChristmas Outlookí survey shows that they resent the outlay and fear repercussions from excessive celebrating.

The survey of 468 managers shows that 72 per cent of organisations hold Christmas parties for their staff ñ slightly down on 74 per cent, last year. However, this apparent demonstration of thanks hides negative feelings about Christmas celebrations in the workplace, with 1 in 3 managers expressing concern about disruption to work and 36 per cent suggesting the party season has become too long.

Key findings, from the research, include:

- Holding back the hand of goodwill: 34 per cent of organisations make no financial contribution towards end-of-year celebrations and 20 per cent spend 20 or less per head for the Christmas party. Those in Wales are amongst the most generous with 14 per cent spending over 81 per head, compared to 1 per cent in the South East.

- Fear factor: 31 per cent believe discrimination laws will have an impact on Christmas parties. Of these respondents, 68 per cent are thinking twice before agreeing to holding parties and 26 per cent fear an increase in tribunals. Almost two-thirds (64 per cent) also believe organisations will be forced to introduce codes of conduct, outlining acceptable behaviour at work parties.

- Faking the fun: many respondents suggest that the atmosphere at workplace parties is false, with 44 per cent describing it as ëforcedí. 1 in 5 say they only go out of a ësense of dutyí ñ with the implication being that attendance is essential for career development. A small minority (1 in 10) go as far as claiming Christmas parties are a ëwaste of timeí.

However, despite these negative views, many managers suggest Christmas parties are a good way to boost team morale (70 per cent) and thank staff for their contributions during the year (78 per cent). 41 per cent of respondents agreed, claiming that they used the Christmas party to ëlet their hair downí and ëmeet people from across the organisation (66 per cent).

Jo Causon, director, marketing and corporate affairs, at the Chartered Management Institute, says: ìAlthough employers are fearful of the impact discrimination legislation may have, it is essential they take the time to thank staff for their efforts. Parties do not have to be extravagant, but a little thanks can go a long way in creating a better atmosphere in the workplace.î

Away from work, the survey also asked respondents to name the festive music they dreaded most and the ëmust see filmí. Although a minority claimed they did not dislike any festive music, 17 per cent said named Sladeís ëMerry Christmas Everybodyí, 11 per cent identified Cliff Richardís songs, especially ëMistletoe and Wineí, and 1 in 10 cited ëJingle Bellsí as their most hated Christmas song. The most popular films to relax to this holiday season were named as ëItís a Wonderful Lifeí, ëCasino Royaleí, ëWhite Christmasí and ëThe Snowmaní.

Across the UK, the Instituteís research shows that organisations in London (84 per cent) and the South-West (80 per cent) are more likely to be holding Christmas events. Only 58 per cent of Scottish organisations will be having an end-of year party, but the lowest was East Anglia (57 per cent).