And we don’t just mean buying presents! As a PA, there’s a lot to think about it in this busy period.
So, here are a few helpful tips on handling Christmas parties and holiday handovers.
Holiday handovers
A relaxing Christmas break can easily be spoiled if you fail to get your holiday handover concluded smoothly, so consider the following:
- Start the handover early – there’s always a hitch or two, and starting early avoids any last minute panic
- Be realistic – don’t work yourself into the ground trying to fit everything in before you finish
- Write clear instructions – this will make life much easier for you and the person covering you
And if you’re providing cover over the holidays:
- Prepare some questions – get as much information as you can before they leave!
- Don’t be negative if things go wrong – if the handover notes aren’t clear, try to avoid blaming anyone
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help – provided you do it in a positive and friendly fashion, asking for support when you’re struggling or overworked is a sensible thing to do
Organising Christmas parties
Here are a few tips on organising your Christmas party:
- Set the date as soon as possible, especially if you have a large booking
- Send a ‘save the date’ email as early as you can
- Set a clear and agreed budget
- Get everyone’s input – all too often, plans are made without consulting everyone in the business
- Find a venue that is accessible to everyone – plan travel and accommodation for those who might need it
- Set the tone of the event – casual or glam?
- Which day are you choosing for the event? If you plan in advance, you’ll be very likely to have your party booked on a Friday. If not, consider Wednesdays and Thursdays and make sure you request morning off for all employees – if possible – so they can enjoy the party
- Make it special – try to impress your guests by having something unique that a few would have experienced before
Surviving Christmas parties
Organising the Christmas party is one thing, but surviving it is quite another. Here are a few tips:
- First and foremost, don’t do anything you’ll end up regretting. Kissing a colleague may be harmless, but we’ve heard stories of people drunkenly tweeting offensively about their boss
- Try not to talk too much about work. We tend to do that if we’re nervous, but this is a good chance to make some new friends and enjoy yourself
- Plan your escape! You’re inevitably going to be a little tipsy, and why not. So, make your life easier and plan well in advance how and when you’ll get home
So, happy planning, and more importantly, happy Christmas!
And if you’re looking for a new job for the New Year, check out our latest roles at www.tate.co.uk
