Many employees spend more time at the office than they do relaxing at home. When the holidays roll around, it is natural to want to celebrate with your coworkers. Cherry Hill employment lawyers know how holiday celebrations can bring coworkers together in a relaxing environment, but they can also lead to trouble for employers or employees who relax a little too much.
A few precautionary preparations can go a long way to ensuring that your work party is a joyous one. Employers should check their employee handbooks and human relations department policies in advance of any type of celebration to make sure expectations for behavior at such events are clear. It is also wise for the employer to consider holding their event off-site to prevent any problems from happening at the place of business. Be sure to check insurance coverage for off-site events before your party so that there are no surprises if any incidents of injury or harm are put in for a claim.
If you are the employee planning to attend the office party, think ahead. First and foremost, designate a driver among your group of friends at work. Nothing will spoil the party more than someone trying to get behind the wheel when they are impaired. Having a designated driver in place before the event can save you from an embarrassing, or worse – a deadly situation.
Keep the Party Professional
Colleagues need to respect their coworkers as much at a party as they do in the office. Sexual advances, unwanted attention, and inappropriate language that are prohibited in the office are also prohibited at the party. Sexual harassment claims can be filed by those who feel offended by your unwanted attention. These claims can be made from members of the opposite sex as well as same sex coworkers who believe you crossed the line with your intentions.
While having a good time, do not forget that you are on company business. Your boss, their boss, your coworkers, and all those in attendance have a chance to get to know you better. Make sure that their impression of you is as positive at the party as it is in the office.
Cherry Hill Employment Lawyers at McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C. Provide Legal Counsel and Representation in all Employment Law Matters
If you or someone you know is involved in a workplace legal issue, the experienced and reputable team of Cherry Hill employment lawyers at McOmber McOmber & Luber, P.C. can help. We are committed to helping our clients achieve a successful outcome to HR disputes and employment concerns.
Call us in Cherry Hill at 856-985-9800, or in Red Bank at 732-842-6500, or contact us online to schedule a consultation today. Our offices are conveniently located in Red Bank and Marlton, New Jersey and serve clients in Camden County, Monmouth County, Burlington County, Ocean County, and Middlesex County.