The Problem of Company Christmas Parties in Norway. Nobody Talks About This Out Loud
New data from the organization "Av-og-til" shows that six out of ten employees in Norway have seen colleagues who overindulged in alcohol during company Christmas dinners. The organization urges managers to discuss the rules in advance before the season of such gatherings begins.
The answer to the question about the 'acceptable' amount of alcohol significantly divides employees.
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A survey conducted by Respons Analyse on behalf of the organization "Av-og-til" clearly shows the scale of the phenomenon. As many as 58 percent of those who attended company Christmas dinners said they had seen colleagues or supervisors who were too drunk.
Among women, this percentage is 63 percent, and among men, 53 percent. Secretary General Ragnhild Kaski emphasizes that the results put employers in a difficult position regarding drinking culture. In her opinion, bosses should clearly define expectations regarding alcohol.
Among women, this percentage is 63 percent, and among men, 53 percent. Secretary General Ragnhild Kaski emphasizes that the results put employers in a difficult position regarding drinking culture. In her opinion, bosses should clearly define expectations regarding alcohol.
Consequences of Bad Decisions at the Table
Kaski's statements are accompanied by warnings about behaviors that can have professional consequences. She points out that people who abuse alcohol often forget that the next day they will see the same colleagues at the coffee machine.
She emphasizes that even if inappropriate behavior occurred during the company Christmas dinner, an employee can expect a reaction from the employer. Some people plan a wild party, while others hesitate to attend the event at all. She notes that discussing the rules before the meeting can help reduce tensions afterward.
She emphasizes that even if inappropriate behavior occurred during the company Christmas dinner, an employee can expect a reaction from the employer. Some people plan a wild party, while others hesitate to attend the event at all. She notes that discussing the rules before the meeting can help reduce tensions afterward.
Many people fear embarrassment in front of colleagues.Photo: fotolia.com
Norwegians Differ in Their Views on Alcohol
The survey also reveals significant differences in how drinking levels are assessed. A total of 55 percent of respondents believe that too much alcohol is consumed at company Christmas dinners. Among women, this figure reaches 64 percent, while among men it is 47 percent.
Norwegians also disagree on what amount of alcohol is considered acceptable. The average answer is 4.2 units, with men indicating 4.6 units and women 3.9. At the same time, 3 percent of respondents believe the appropriate amount is zero.
Norwegians also disagree on what amount of alcohol is considered acceptable. The average answer is 4.2 units, with men indicating 4.6 units and women 3.9. At the same time, 3 percent of respondents believe the appropriate amount is zero.
The organization "Av-og-til" announces further informational activities during the period of increased company Christmas gatherings. Representatives hope that the survey results will encourage employers to set clear rules and create a safe atmosphere during events. They also emphasize that conversations about alcohol may become a permanent part of preparations for company gatherings.
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