TIME FOR XMAS WISHES
THE humble work Christmas function or end-ofyear break-up activity may be a chance to unwind with workmates and celebrate the year’s successes, but there are also additional benefits for the astute employee.
It can be an opportunity to build relationships across departments, make a good impression and get face time with the boss. Chris Golis, author of The Humm Handbook, says workers might even be able to bring up the idea of a promotion.
“If you’re smart about it and don’t come across as too much of a crawler, you can set yourself up for the year ahead by having an intelligent and meaningful conversation with your superiors,” he says.
However, Golis says timing is important, as making a beeline for the executive team can make a worker look like a ruthless social climber.
He recommends starting with a five to 10-minute conversation about anything but work. Family, pets and holidays are all good subjects to lead with.
“Then you can perhaps steer the conversation more towards the office environment by asking them what their best decision was this year,” he says. “It is a way of stroking their ego and indirectly asking them what makes them so good.”
Golis recommends then politely moving on before becoming a pest.
Macquarie Ice Rink manager John Dunn says employers can equally use Christmas events to their advantage.
“Christmas parties are a way to reevaluate your business’s key messages,” he says. “What kind of workplace do you want to be? What aligns with your values?”
Dunn says a fun, creative and tasteful event will get employees talking and leave a lasting impression.
“Workplaces today are looking for unique activities that provide positive team experiences and take team building to the next level. From dinner on the ice, to fashion shows and learning how to skate, we’ve seen it all,” he says. “(Bubble soccer on ice) pushes people slightly outside of their comfort zone so they come together in new ways.”