Yes, this is our second holiday post in the past few weeks. We focused the last one on parties, but there’s more to discuss!

The holiday season is a welcome opportunity to recognize employees and build connections. It also brings unique challenges for HR professionals who must balance celebration with compliance, safety, and fairness. With thoughtful planning, though, employers can create a positive experience for everyone while reducing legal and operational risk.

Office Parties: Celebrate Safely and Inclusively

Holiday gatherings can support morale, but they require clear expectations and safeguards.

Alcohol and Safety
If alcohol will be served, consider measures such as drink limits, transportation options, or designated event monitors. Employers may bear responsibility if an intoxicated employee causes harm after the event.

Inclusive Themes
Use neutral, seasonal themes so all employees feel welcome, regardless of their cultural or religious practices.

Policy Reminders
Anti-harassment, conduct, and respectful workplace policies apply at employer-sponsored events. A brief reminder to staff can help reinforce expectations.

Gifts and Bonuses: Show Appreciation Thoughtfully

Year-end recognition should be handled in a consistent and compliant way.

Consistent Criteria
Apply gift and bonus decisions based on objective standards to avoid claims of favoritism or discrimination.

Tax Considerations
Cash gifts and gift cards typically are taxable. Work with payroll to ensure proper reporting.

Voluntary Participation

If you offer a gift exchange or team activity, clarify that participation is optional.

Managing Time Off Requests

The holidays often mean overlapping requests for vacation or other leave.

Apply Policies Consistently
Follow your written policies and apply them in a uniform manner to avoid claims of unequal treatment.

Religious Accommodations
Employees may request time off for religious observances. Employers must consider reasonable accommodations unless doing so creates an undue hardship.

Communications and Workplace Humor

Seasonal messages and humor can easily be misunderstood.

Keep Messages Professional
Email greetings, digital cards, and team messages should reflect your organization’s professional standards.

Avoid Sensitive Topics
Steer clear of jokes or themes involving religion, protected characteristics, or personal appearance.

Decorations and Safety Considerations

Festive décor can boost morale but keep safety and inclusivity in mind.

Safety First
Ensure decorations do not block exits, overload electrical outlets, or create tripping hazards.

Neutral and Respectful
Use décor that reflects the season broadly. Avoid religious symbols unless they appear in a wider, inclusive display.

Virtual Celebrations

Even virtual events require structure and clear expectations.

Policy Compliance
Remind employees that all workplace policies apply in virtual settings, including chat features, backgrounds, and shared content.

Optional Attendance
Avoid making participation mandatory—employees may have personal obligations, different comfort levels, or non-observance of holidays.

Set Expectations Early

A brief reminder to staff can prevent confusion and ensure a smooth season.

Clarify Event Details
Communicate whether events are voluntary, whether alcohol will be available, and who is responsible for transportation.

Reinforce Policies
A short, respectful note highlighting key policies can prevent misunderstandings.

Model Professionalism
Leadership behavior sets the tone. Managers should demonstrate the conduct expected from employees at celebratory events.

Final Thoughts

The holidays provide an opportunity to strengthen team culture and show appreciation. By planning ahead, communicating clearly, and applying policies consistently, employers can support a safe, positive, and inclusive environment throughout the season.