New report shows Australians feel dread at the high cost of Christmas parties
Christmas parties that are more laid-back will see more success this year as opposed to flashy ones, according to a new report, as employers are urged to keep social events considerate of employees' time and budgets.
Findings from Indeed's latest national survey among over 2,000 Australian workers revealed what they most want from their Christmas parties this year.
It found that 47% of employees prefer casual formats, such as BBQs or picnics, saying these events will make them more likely to attend.
"The most successful celebrations this year will be the ones that keep things relaxed: low-cost, daytime formats like BBQs or picnics," said Lauren Anderson, workplace expert at Indeed.
A third of employees said their organisations are already doing these scaled-back events, and this makes 57% more excited to attend their party this year than in previous years.
"When employers take this approach, attendance lifts, pressure drops and the event becomes something for workers to genuinely look forward to."
The high cost of Christmas parties
The demand for more casual Christmas party formats comes as Australians consider the high costs that come with these events.
Employees expect to spend an average of $141 out of pocket to attend these social events, with the costs including outfits, transport, childcare, and Kris Kringle gifts.
"With workers expecting to spend around $141 just to attend a holiday party, the financial strain may overshadow the fun," Anderson said.
According to the report, 73% of employees will attend their Christmas parties, but 36% feel dread about their end-of-year event and 63% say they feel obligated to attend the event.
What employees want for Christmas
Aside from casual Christmas party formats, the poll found that some employees want their employers to offer an alternative to these social functions.
Nearly half of the respondents (48%) said they would prefer a day off instead, while 61% said their employers should provide compensation for out-of-hours Christmas parties.
"Employees are increasingly hoping employers will ease that financial burden, especially when events fall outside work hours," Anderson said.
The workplace expert stressed that Australians want the chance to get together, but that they want these occasions to feel enjoyable rather than draining.
"Our research shows that rather than a flashy party, people generally prefer events that are considerate of their time and budgets," Anderson said.
