Making the case for the Christmas party

July 6, 2010

The office Christmas party is a given at many workplaces around the country, but not all bosses are willing to enter into the festive spirit quite so readily.

With many companies tightening the purse strings during tough economic times, it may be necessary for a little bit of persuasion to make sure the party is given the green light.

Any employees that are planning to cajole the boss into organising a Christmas bash should avoid being confrontational or belligerent, as this is likely to get any celebrations consigned straight to the bin.

Better to flatter the ego of the person who ultimately decides the fate of the party, while always remembering not to grovel.

When fashion worker Louise Merchant's boss said there would be no Christmas party, she and her colleagues used a tried and tested strategy.

"Making her feel guilty worked," explained Lisa.

"We loudly started arranging our own plans. Then we did a collection for drinks and invited her. In the end she gave us some cash and came along. She had a great time too."