Seven holiday habits that are driving your coworkers mad

While the holiday season is a time for joy and cheer, it can also be a source of workplace stress. Whether you’re the office Grinch or the office elf, it’s important to be mindful of your holiday habits. After all, no one wants to be the reason for their coworkers' 'bah humbug'.

The holiday season can bring out the best and worst in people, especially in the office. From overly loud Christmas carols to excessive gift-giving, there's a whole host of irritating habits that can turn the festive cheer into workplace dread. 

As the holiday season approaches, offices often transform into festive hubs, complete with carols, decorations, and gift exchanges. While these traditions aim to boost morale, they can sometimes lead to unexpected workplace irritations. 

A study by Click Offices, analysed through AI, has revealed the top seven most annoying Christmas office habits of 2024. From excessive noise to overly personal gift-giving, these behaviours can quickly dampen holiday spirits. Let's hope this year brings more cheer and less office stress. 

In no particular order, the list is as follows:  

Forced participation in festive activities 

Compulsory Christmas activities, from quizzes to Christmas Jumper Days, can be a source of annoyance for many office workers. Some may feel overwhelmed by tight deadlines and unrealistic workloads, making festive activities an additional stressor. Others simply may not enjoy such activities. To create a more inclusive and respectful workplace, it's essential to make participation in Christmas activities optional. Workplaces should also avoid scheduling mandatory activities outside of working hours, as the holiday season can already be a hectic time for many individuals. 

Excessive charity collections 

While the holiday season is a time for giving, pressuring employees to contribute to multiple charity collections can be burdensome, especially during times of economic hardship. Many households are struggling with the rising cost of living and may not be able to afford additional donations. To alleviate this pressure, workplaces should make charitable giving entirely voluntary. It’s important to avoid creating a sense of obligation or guilt among employees.

Additionally, exploring alternative fundraising methods, such as company-sponsored donations or partnerships with external organisations, can help reduce the financial burden on individual employees. 

The stress of Secret Santa 

Secret Santa can be a divisive tradition in the workplace. While it can bring joy and camaraderie, it can also be a source of stress for many employees. Challenges such as budget constraints, difficulty finding suitable gifts, and the risk of receiving inappropriate presents can make it a less-than-festive experience. 

To reduce the stress associated with Secret Santa, workplaces should consider making participation optional. Setting a modest spending limit can also help manage expectations and reduce financial burdens. Additionally, establishing clear guidelines for gift-giving can help prevent awkward or offensive presents. 

The challenge of December leaves 

The holiday season often brings challenges in managing work and personal commitments. While many employees look forward to time off, limited annual leave and increased workloads can create tension in the workplace. To mitigate these issues, employers should implement fair and equitable leave policies. This includes establishing clear guidelines for requesting and approving leave, as well as considering the needs of all team members.

By promoting a balanced approach to work and personal life, employers can help reduce stress and improve employee morale during the holiday season. 

Christmas office overshares 

Oversharing personal details, such as extravagant holiday plans or family drama, can create a toxic work environment. This behaviour can be particularly harmful during the holiday season, when financial disparities and personal challenges may be more pronounced. 

To maintain a positive and respectful workplace, it's important to be mindful of your colleagues' feelings. By avoiding excessive bragging or sharing sensitive information, you can help create a more harmonious atmosphere. Remember, discretion and empathy are key to fostering positive relationships with your coworkers. 

Being made to work the day after the Christmas party 

Work Christmas parties, while intended to boost morale, can sometimes lead to unexpected challenges. Many parties are scheduled on weekdays, which can be problematic for employees who have to work the following day. The pressure to drink alcohol and socialise can also be overwhelming, particularly for those who prefer a more low-key celebration. 

To create a more inclusive and considerate work environment, employers should consider scheduling parties on weekends or Fridays. Additionally, managers should avoid creating a culture of excessive drinking and encourage moderation. Flexible work arrangements, such as later start times or remote work, can also help employees recover from late nights. 

Lazy co-workers throughout December  

As the holiday season approaches, many workers experience a decline in productivity. Factors such as poor weather, increased distractions, and holiday stress can contribute to this seasonal slump. Additionally, uneven workload distribution can lead to resentment and burnout among team members. 

To address these issues, managers should prioritise effective workload management. This includes delegating tasks fairly, setting realistic deadlines, and providing adequate support to employees. By creating a positive and productive work environment, managers can help their teams stay focused and motivated, even during the busiest time of the year.