Skipping the office party

It’s that time of year again, for the office end of year party which I’ve always been keen to attend and in fact, I’ve even crashed some friends’ parties in the past. What can I say, I love the food, entertainment and above all, networking. You could meet your next client or business partner in the Buffet queue, so yes, I’ve always been enthusiastic about these kinds of events. However this year, I’m not attending any parties, and that includes ours. First of all, it’s scheduled for the 3rd Sunday of the New Year which I feel defeats the purpose. It’s called “End of Year Party” for a reason. Whoever is in charge of organizing the party had all year to pick a date and if they couldn’t prioritize it, why should I? Also, everyone knows that after a gruelling year, it’s best if these kinds of parties are held on a Friday or Saturday, to give staff an opportunity to really celebrate their achievements and at the same time have enough time to “recuperate” after the party. Personally, I do my cleaning and lots of other things I don’t get to do during the week on Sunday. Attending this party would mean putting all that on hold just to fit this one event in. Apart from that, I need motivation. I don’t know about you but I don’t see the point of attending these events year in and out knowing I’m never going to make the outstanding employees list because of office politics. Honestly, I’m just tired of applauding the same click of people who don’t necessarily have the most impressive sales numbers or profound impact on the company but happen to be close to the boss. I think the goal should be to make the process transparent by say, asking all staff to vote for who they think should be employee of the year. That way, everyone will be inspired to work harder, knowing they have a shot at whatever reward the company offers that year. There’s also the boss’ speech. Hearing about the milestones and profit margins is all good but let’s also hear something about employee benefits and raises. Managing Directors and CEOs are almost always guaranteed bonuses and pay raises but that’s not the case for the ordinary employee and it really bothers me, so much that I might be tempted to accost our boss about it, which might not go down well and so I would rather stay away from the party. I will miss the food but not much else. One last thing, I know budgets are drawn for these parties complete with headcount and what not. I have my reasons for skipping but I also know some other staff may fail to turn up too, due to family emergencies like a sick child or a prior commitment and I’m just wondering if there’s a way for us all to kind of be reimbursed. You think I’m pushing it? I know someone is going to pocket it!

Lifestyle

Skipping the office party