As the end of the year approaches, the time for festivities and traditional company parties has arrived. The month of December is full of these types of events, organized to recognize achievements, strengthen bonds and end the year on a light note. However, it’s not all a party: despite the relaxed atmosphere, these meetings are an extension of the work environment and therefore require compliance with certain rules to avoid problems the next day.
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According to labor lawyer Ana Gabriela Burlamaqui, partner at AC Burlamaqui Consultores, behavior incompatible with the internal regulations or which constitutes serious misconduct can result in disciplinary sanctions and, in more serious situations, even dismissal for just cause.
— In addition to attitudes contrary to the internal rules and policies of each company, any conduct seriously exceeding respect between colleagues can be qualified as dismissal for just cause. Noting that to apply a just cause, it is necessary to respect the requirements of immediacy, proportionality and gradation of the sanction, explains the specialist.
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As examples of conduct deemed inappropriate during these meetings, the lawyer cites behaviors that characterize sexual harassment between colleagues, such as comments, gestures, insistence and forced physical contact, as well as verbal and physical assault.
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In addition, attitudes such as excessive alcohol consumption, generating uncontrolled behavior or discriminatory gestures of any type, material damage, use of illicit substances and behaviors that expose the company’s image, including on social networks, are also inappropriate.
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According to labor lawyer Elisa Alonso, partner at RCA Advogados, the fact that the drink is distributed at the event does not authorize behavior that is offensive or incompatible with professional ethics.
— Alcohol consumption can constitute an aggravating circumstance, especially when it is proven that excess alcohol contributed to inappropriate behavior or created risks for third parties — affirms the lawyer, emphasizing that certain behaviors, even without the gravity necessary to break the working relationship, harm the image of the worker and can compromise his credibility in the business environment.
Assessment and description
For experts, networking comes naturally during meetings, but it must be guided by balance, discretion and respect for ethical boundaries and hierarchy.
— Networking should be polite and professional, avoiding invasive conversations, pressure on colleagues or superiors, company exposure and any embarrassing behavior — explains Ana.
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Elisa emphasizes that although the party atmosphere is relaxed, it is not a formal extension of work nor an appropriate venue for complaints or debate.
— What is suggested is to preserve your privacy, not to surpass yourself, to get closer to people, but to respect limits, to seek authentic and non-opportunistic relationships — she says.
If an employee steps out of line or makes a serious mistake during the meeting, experts suggest they take responsibility for what happened as quickly as possible.
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— It is necessary for the employee to communicate transparently with their management or HR, seeking not only to apologize, but also to make themselves available to repair whatever is possible — explains Ana, emphasizing that these attitudes do not prevent the company from adopting proportionate measures, including disciplinary measures.
Despite this, Elisa affirms that jurisprudence values attitudes of good faith and collaboration, affirming that, in this context, adopting a proactive attitude can mitigate internal consequences and preserve the employment relationship, when there is still room for this.
Tips for having fun without overdoing it
- Respect the employer’s internal rules and manuals;
- Maintain a posture aligned with the professional environment;
- Never exaggerate in the consumption of alcoholic beverages;
- Respect the hierarchy;
- Avoid sensitive topics, such as politics, internal conflicts, salaries and evaluations;
- Maintain strict rules of politeness and respect;
- Be careful when exposing your own image or that of others, including in photos, videos and social media (it is always worth asking permission for posts involving other people);
- Don’t have pushy attitudes, such as conversations or interactions when the other person shows discomfort.
*intern under the direction of Danielle Nogueira.
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