However, like any other company event involving drinking, there's the risk of getting TOO personal. It's important to lay down ground rules to ensure professional behavior. Here are our recommendations for company picnic etiquette to ensure everyone has a good time while professional boundaries are observed.
Dress Appropriately for the Event
Company picnic dress codes can be more relaxed than they would be in the office. If the weather is hot, it's reasonable to expect comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. However, attire should still be on the business-casual side without sacrificing comfort. If need be, include a brief write-up of expected dress in the announcements for summer parties and other company events.
Be Mindful of Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol consumption can lead to inappropriate behavior. Employees should be mindful of how much they are drinking if alcohol is being served at the event.
Some employees also may not want to drink and should not be pressured to do so. Company events with a heavy drinking culture can be alienating to employees who don't drink for medical, religious, or other personal reasons. If the company picnic is a daytime event where employees can bring their families, it's helpful and inclusive not to serve alcohol. Save the open bar for launch parties and other nighttime events where alcoholic drinks are more customary.
Engage in Friendly But Appropriate Conversation
The entire point of the company picnic is to have friendly conversations with coworkers and other employees that some people may not always engage with. While chats at company events need not be entirely about work, conversations should stick to appropriate and inoffensive topics. Avoid politics, religion, and what can be construed as sensitive or controversial issues to keep conflict at a minimum.
Respect Personal Space and Boundaries
Employees must respect each others' personal space, as well as verbal and social boundaries. This means no inappropriate touching, getting too close, making someone uncomfortable, or using inappropriate language.
This also includes commentary on whether or not an employee is drinking alcohol or what they are eating. Some people find it to be a violation of personal boundaries if they are being interrogated on their personal choices.
Don't Forget to Have Fun and Be Social!
The entire point of company events and summer parties is team building. The company picnic and other events are an opportunity for employees to socialize with people they work with, but without having to discuss work. It is a time to get to know their colleagues better and build stronger relationships with them.
Even though picnic etiquette and rules on basic professional conduct should be followed, the goal of having company events is to bring the organization closer by sharing food, drink, and good times.
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