It is one of those things we do annually because it is expected. Employers are expected to arrange them and to a lesser extent employees are expected to turn out for them. The level of awkwardness involved in the entire process comes down to whether a good working environment exists. If one does then it is the perfect opportunity to bond and relax away from work, an occasion where you can truly get to know your colleagues. If not then some people will be measuring what they drink and observing the proceedings while others will be getting hammered and saying more than they would ideally of wanted to.

So is your work place a happy place? Can you go out and let your hair down without worrying what your manager thinks or feeling isolated from your work colleagues. The best places to work have the best Christmas dos. ABC Accounting Services is no exception so when we all went out on Friday night we let our hair down, had a good laugh and told each other how brill we all are. That’s what you are meant to do. Here is what to look for in a Christmas party that means you have nailed it!

1. Laughter

There should be an abundance of laughter at other people, at each other and at yourselves. Not malicious though of course!

2. Alcohol

Not an essential element for most people it does help step over that threshold out of work and into play mode.

3. Photo Opportunities

It is a great opportunity to get lots of material for social media if everyone is willing and you can have a right laugh at some of the shots taken on the night, especially on the following morning.

4. Frivolous fun

You are serious all day long everyday. Let your guard down and show people that you can have a giggle and be silly if you want to. Being able to chill and act daft is actually a huge stress buster.

5. Exceptional or exceptionally bad entertainment

It doesn’t really matter if the entertainment is bad because you can laugh at them. It is nicer if you are laughing with them but both options are workable.

6. Going Out Clothes

For those who work in suits and dresses all day it is an excellent opportunity to get glammed up and strut your stuff on the social scene. You never know what people look like until they let their hair down and dress to impress!

7. Chatting and dancing

When you are not laughing and taking pictures people should be talking and entertaining each other. There should be mingling and dancing and lots of banter.

8.Selfie

It wouldn’t really be a Christmas do without a selfie – would it? The perfect moment for Belinda, Shell and Dana popped up as they were leaving the loo! Just done your make-up ladies?

The whole point is to wander off the beaten track and see where it lands you. Admittedly you do not want to puke on your boss or call them anything they may realise you mean. But, for those working in a positive and content working environment there is no risk of that because they respect their boss (es) and are old enough to know their drinking limits. Go out there and embrace the opportunity to have a laugh with people you spend a hell of a lot of time with. It’s Christmas – be merry and have fun!

We did!