Internet is divided over corporate holiday party faux pas - but who is in the right?

Written by Rachel Bowman for DailyMail.com

Published: 21:41 GMT on December 1, 2024 | Last updated: 01:09 GMT on December 2, 2024

A social media influencer from New York City has sparked debate online with her bold opinion about invitations to company holiday parties.

Piper Phillips, an independent content creator with a background in corporate work, shared a video with her 93,000 followers on TikTok expressing her frustration about a friend's company Christmas party that doesn't permit guests.

"They put on fancy outfits, like dresses and whatnot, and leave their partners at home. I find that odd," Phillips said, reflecting on a chat she had with a friend.

At 24, she envisioned it would feel uncomfortable to dress up and attend a party where her older male boss would be present, especially since they would be without their partners and there would be plenty of alcohol available.

"When there's an open bar and alcohol involved—particularly in traditional, male-dominated fields—it feels odd to me. There's often a scarcity of young women in their twenties, yet you find your superiors in powerful roles present at these events without their spouses or partners," Phillips remarked.

It feels quite awkward to me, particularly given how our culture has idealized Christmas parties with open bars. It just comes across as quite inappropriate.

The responses to her post were mixed; some individuals suggested that it’s perfectly acceptable to not extend invitations to others since the event is meant to strengthen the relationships among colleagues.

"I don't find this strange in the least. It's simply a great method for colleagues to bond," remarked one individual.

Piper Phillips, who has 93,000 followers on TikTok, shared a video expressing her frustration about a friend's holiday work party that doesn't permit guests.

The content creator envisioned herself at 24 years old feeling uncomfortable about dressing up and attending a party where her older male boss would be present.

"I believe it's completely natural, and I prefer not to spend time alone with my colleagues' partners," someone else mentioned.

Another individual commented, "That's just typical. Why would your partner need to accompany you to a work-related event?"

"This is completely normal. I believe that if someone needs their partner to be with them at a work function, it indicates a very unhealthy relationship," remarked another person.

Some have noted that hosting these events can be costly for companies, and they can reduce expenses by not inviting guests.

"Holiday parties can be costly, and not everyone is in a relationship. By excluding plus-ones, you can save money and often see an increase in attendance," shared one individual.

"That's strange. I'm relieved that my services aren't low-cost," remarked someone else.

Some people shared Phillips' perspective, saying that their time after work should be dedicated to family. They mentioned that if they can't bring their partners along, they’re not interested in attending.

One person expressed, "If I'm putting on anything other than my usual work attire or a goofy sweater, or if the event is more formal than a casual happy hour, it feels wrong or tacky not to extend an invitation for plus ones."

A recent survey revealed that 87 percent of employees prefer receiving a Christmas bonus or gift card instead of attending a holiday party.

Another individual commented, "I wouldn't attend a corporate event without my significant other. Why would I choose to spend my leisure time with colleagues?"

"I completely understand; I'm not a fan of office Christmas parties either. I realize it might be more expensive to invite guests, but why not just forgo the party altogether and give everyone a Christmas bonus instead?" voiced another person.

"I believe it would be far more enjoyable and engaging to bring partners along and meet them. I see my colleagues every day anyway," said another individual.

A recent survey revealed that 87 percent of employees prefer receiving a Christmas bonus or gift card instead of attending a staff party.

Unexpectedly, 63 percent of respondents expressed that they didn’t want any type of work celebration.

As more office employees work from home for at least part of the week, the practice of socializing and connecting with coworkers seems to be fading away.