A staggering 15 percent of Brits say their office party is what they hate the most about Christmas, according to new research by Virgin Incentives.
Despite this, nearly a quarter (24%) of people plan on attending their workplace’s party this year, but one in ten (9%) say they will be doing so “reluctantly”.
Also, 14 percent of employees are excited for their work Christmas party.
Opinions on the work Christmas party divide generations in the workforce. Those aged 25-34 years appear to be the most excited for their work-do, with 26 per cent saying ‘try and stop me’ heading to the party and a total of 38 per cent planning to attend.
By comparison, just 9 percent of those aged 55 and over say they will be going.
Meanwhile, while 29 percent of 35-44-year-olds say they’ll be in attendance, the findings suggest the most unenthusiastic party-goers are amongst this group, with 15 percent saying they’ll be doing so ‘reluctantly’.
What makes a good Christmas party?
With the festivities around the corner, the research reveals the most loved and loathed elements of the work Christmas party for businesses to take note of.
Free food and drink came up trumps, over a third (35%) of employees believe it the most essential part to a great festive celebration. This was followed by spending time with colleagues (22%) and a festive venue (20%).
Live music was cited as what people are least bothered about, with only 15 percent saying it is the most important part of a party, followed by office decorations (10%). An unsociable bunch, Brits prefer to stick with who they know with only 8 percent saying meeting new people is what makes a good work bash.
Danni Rush, Chief Operating Officer at Virgin Incentives commented:
“Christmas is such a magical time of year. After two Christmases of Covid restrictions, there’s some pent-up anticipation for the work Christmas party and spending time with colleagues.
“But it’s clear that Christmas parties are not for everybody. This will be the first Christmas that won’t be impacted by the pandemic and is a great time for businesses to think outside the box. Business leaders should consider other ways they can also celebrate the holiday season with their teams, to ensure everyone can enjoy getting involved in the festivities. Experiences and activities are a great alternative and allow for colleagues to bond and create new memories with each other.”
Amelia Brand is the Editor for HRreview, and host of the HR in Review podcast series. With a Master’s degree in Legal and Political Theory, her particular interests within HR include employment law, DE&I, and wellbeing within the workplace. Prior to working with HRreview, Amelia was Sub-Editor of a magazine, and Editor of the Environmental Justice Project at University College London, writing and overseeing articles into UCL’s weekly newsletter. Her previous academic work has focused on philosophy, politics and law, with a special focus on how artificial intelligence will feature in the future.
