Opinion: Why you should invite your temporary workforce to your Christmas party

In many organisations the annual Christmas / Festive season party seems to take a disproportionate level of importance in the minds of many employees (and can lead to a disproportionate level of stress for those that need to organise and supervise it!).     

There is much discussion ranging from the location, dress theme, types of drinks being offered and the entertainment. Rumours fly about on what other competitors are doing – “I heard [competitor #1] is getting Deltra Goodrem to perform” or “[competitor #2] is taking out a huge yacht on Sydney Harbour]!  

In all this someone inevitably has to stop to think do we invite our contractors, temporary staff, freelancers? 

I would encourage the answer to be a resounding “yes”: 

• Contingent labour (contractors, temporary, freelance staff) has been the fastest growing segment of the workforce over the last decade and is now a key part of many organisations long term work force planning 
• However, many organisations do not think explicitly about the engagement and experience of this part of the workforce 
• This is a mistake. Their experience is very important and can have ramification across the business: 

• They can be just as loud promoters or detractors for your employment brand as full time employees (arguably even more so as there can be more of them over time) 
• Highly engaged contingent staff are more likely to complete the full length of their assignment and many will then seek full time employment with the organisation 
• Typically, the contingent workforce and full time workforce need to work together to most effective so creating relationships is important 
• There is a danger of creating a “haves” and “have nots” environment which can lead to cultural issues within the business 
• …..and everyone loves a Christmas party (well everyone perhaps other than HR)  

So don’t be a grinch this season and spread the festive cheer far and wide – you will benefit in the long run. 

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