Halloween is almost here!

Every year I see more and more workplaces where employees are encouraged to dress up and celebrate Halloween during the workday.  Offices, supermarkets, and even banks are getting into the act.  I’m all for it, and see it as a chance to develop teamwork and have some fun with co-workers and customers.  But, like everything else that we do at work –the way we dress, the way we talk, the way joke and behave- there are social and business norms that should be observed.  We want to be mindful of the company culture and take care not to wear something that would embarrass or unintentionally offend customers or coworkers. 

Follow your company guidelines for what’s appropriate.  But if there are none, here are some dos and don’ts:

• Be tasteful.  Be respectful of social, cultural and religious differences.  Have you heard of the quintessential three topics we should avoid discussing at work?  You know, Sex, Religion and Politics.  Same logic applies to your choice of costume.  Avoid sexual, religious or political themes.  That means dressing up as a flasher, a pregnant nun, or a modern politician (Lincoln is fine) is not a good idea.  Good rule of thumb, would you be comfortable standing in front of your grandmother?

• Be practical.  Remember you and those around you will still be doing your regular jobs, so don’t wear something that’s so elaborate, messy or noisy that it’s unsafe or annoying.

• Avoid too much gore and violence.  Zombies are popular and fun but don’t over do the goo and blood.  And, I shouldn’t have to mention this but I’m no longer surprised by cluelessness: Avoid any costume that involves (even remotely) realistic-looking weapons of any kind, specially firearms.

• Be a good sport – On the one hand, don’t take yourself too seriously.   Participate even if you aren’t motivated to get into an elaborate costume, simply  wearing a silly hat or Groucho Marx glasses, will do. Conversely, don’t be the pushy Halloween ambassador going around pressuring co-workers who would rather not participate.

So, enjoy the chance for fun and take a break from everyday routine.  Have a spooky good time!

©Copyright Eva Del Rio

Eva Del Rio is creator of HR Box™ – tools for small businesses and startups. Send questions to Eva@evadelrio.com