YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

I DETEST GOING TO MY WORK CHRISTMAS PARTY, IT’S NOT MY THING. HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO STAY BEFORE I CAN LEAVE?

LISA MORRIS DIRECTOR, HAYS

The general rule is to stay long enough to say hello to people you know and have worked with throughout the year and get through any structured part of the evening, such as dinner or a presentation. Christmas parties are a good opportunity to thank people from other departments who you call or email from time to time but don’t see regularly. So at least say a quick hello and wish a happy Christmas to those who’ve had the greatest impact on your successes this year.

JUSTIN HINORA EXECUTIVE CONSULTANT, HENDER CONSULTING

End-of-year celebrations have become less extravagant than they used to be but are generally still a worthwhile team bonding/building opportunity. Some people can be too enthusiastic about the celebrations. Consider the impact of not attending and perhaps have a discussion with your manager about how your non-attendance may be perceived. It may not be an issue. Some people have legitimate reasons for not attending, or wanting to attend.

ANDREW SULLIVAN MANAGING DIRECTOR, SULLIVAN CONSULTING

The answer to this really depends on the culture of your workplace and type of party. For a formal dinner, it’s unlikely you can politely leave any earlier than after dessert. For casual drinks or a cocktail-style function, it is probably expected that people will stay for at least an hour and probably more. If you’re not sure, see if you can find out what the expectation is. You might also consider asking colleagues whether anyone else feels the same as you do.

ALEXANDRA ROSSER HEAD OF ORGANISATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY CONSULTING, STILLWELL MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS

If it’s during work hours and/or paid for by your employer, you should stay for the entirety. If it’s an event in personal time and/or requires expenditure from you, then, at a minimum, you should stay for formalities.

If you are, or desire to be, in leadership it is advisable to not only stay for the duration but also offer to assist with preparation and clean-up.