Christmas cheer still alive and kicking, says survey

18/11/2008

New research says the Christmas spirit has not deserted the British workplace. Most companies (60%) will still give their employees a Christmas party, according to the findings from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development's (CIPD) Annual Reward Management Survey 2008.

The private sector is the most willing to splash out for their staff at Christmas - 77% are likely to throw a Christmas party or meal this year.

Charles Cotton, CIPD Reward Adviser, commented on the survey's results: "As ever, employers need to think about why they are providing a Christmas party in the first place," he said. "If it is to recognise the collective contribution of their employees, then what are the alternatives and are they more effective?

"If holding a Christmas party is the most effective way of achieving this, then employers should be wary about scrapping them in response to the economic downturn because the long term impact could be damaging on employee engagement and organisational performance. As reward becomes ever more individual, the Christmas party is one way of reminding staff that they are part of a common endeavour."

Despite the credit crunch and bank bailouts, even Lloyds TSB appears to be supporting Mr. Cotton's view of the benefits of the office Christmas party. The bank is to treat its 67,000 staff around the world to almost two million pounds-worth of Christmas parties.