H.R. expert explains how Weinstein, Spacey and Lauer can impact our holiday festivities
After America’s perennial nice guy Matt Lauer was accused of sexual misconduct in the workplace, many people were left shocked. His name is just one of many in the ever-growing pile of powerful men who have been disgraced after their egregious (and sometimes criminal) behavior was brought to light by their female colleagues.
And now, many H.R. experts are saying massive changes need to take place in American workplaces if companies want to protect their employees and their reputation as a safe place to work, especially as it relates to office parties around the holidays.
“We need to be very careful around our choices this holiday season,” says Rob Wilson, H.R. expert and President of Employco USA. “As the #MeToo campaign proved, it would behoove us all to take a closer look at our behavior towards women in the workplace and beyond.”
So, what does Wilson recommend?
First, he says, no booze at the holiday party. “I know this is not going to be well-received by every employee, but the reality is that alcohol is a match which can ignite a powder-keg. You can still serve festive ‘mocktails,’ or serve coffee, cider and cocoa. Better yet, have your party early in the day, such as at brunch. People won’t be as likely to expect alcohol or a ‘wild’ atmosphere.”
Second, he advises that companies need to be careful when wording their dress code policy. “In the light of these sexual assault accusations, many people have blamed the victims and suggested that they invited the attention due to their dress or appearance. This has created a tricky line for employers to walk: You want to require appropriate clothing at your holiday party, but you also don’t want to contribute to such victim-blaming. Hence, when wording your dress code policies make sure to focus on your employees dressing professionally rather than modestly. The goal is not to police women’s bodies or suggest they mustn’t lead men astray, but to create a workplace in which every person is dressed appropriately for their position and title.”
Wilson also advises employers to ask that no discussion of politics takes over the party. “You cannot control what every employee talks about,” says Wilson, “But the political is very much personal these days. So, when someone starts opining on President Trump and Roy Moore, or discussing Woody Allen, Matt Lauer, etc., it is very likely that someone is going to wind up offended. Remind employees that this is a party to celebrate their accomplishments over the year and to connect with one another in a positive way.”
Gifts could also be an issue. “Many companies have white-elephant gift exchanges,” says Wilson. “These can be really fun, but sometimes people get a bit naughty and slip in items that are sexual or flirtatious in manner. Make sure to ask that all gifts be harmless and G-rated.”
Additionally, says Wilson, institute a no-tolerance policy for sexual jokes and innuendo. “Bawdy humor has no place in the office, even at a holiday party. Your employees might complain that things feel too ‘P.C.’ but when we turn a blind eye to conversations of a sexual nature, it’s often women who are left feeling victimized and humiliated. It’s better to nip that in the bud and create an environment where we can all feel safe and respected.”
For more on this topic, please contact Rob Wilson at rwilson@thewilsoncompanies.com.