Traditional values are returning to the workplace with many executives banishing the ‘Scrooge mentality’ to Christmas past.
The annual Christmas Outlook survey, published by the Chartered Management Institute, of 639 managers shows that less than one in five believed Christmas celebrations were “a chore”. The figure is in sharp contrast to Christmas 2004, when only 16% suggested they enjoyed the office festivities.
Key findings from the survey include:
- Party spirit: The number of organisations hosting end-of-year parties has climbed after a two-year dip. At 74%, work based celebrations have risen above two-thirds for the first time since 2003.
- Extended hand of good will: This year, three-quarters sent a card to colleagues (52% in 2004) and 18% plan to exchange presents (11% last year).
- No silent nights: 48% said that Christmas was a “time to let your hair down” as 70% said festivities boost morale or are a chance to recognise hard work (51%) and thank staff (63%).
Jo Causon, Director of Marketing and Corporate Affairs for the Chartered Management Institute, said: “It’s encouraging to report a sea-change in attitudes. For the past two years organisations have been giving Christmas the cold turkey treatment, but rather than bemoan disruption, most managers recognise this time of year as a chance to show appreciation for the hard work colleagues put in.”
However, the survey also shows that the UK’s large organisations were the least generous, with 72% making no financial contribution to staff parties, compared to 62% for small and 59% for medium-sized organisations.
Managers in organisations employing 25 people or less were also more likely to encourage holidays, with 62% claiming they actively suggest employees take time off at Christmas, compared to only 41% of those employing 251 or more people.
