They’ve banned partners from the Christmas party and the troops aren’t happy

Dear Aunty B,

I read the other day about Andrew Forrest cutting back on company barbecues and tomato sauce, but we’ve been hit with our own cost-cutting scandal.

I’m on the social committee organising the Christmas party, and we’ve been told that there isn’t enough money to invite partners along. Given we’ve done this for the past 10 years, there are a few noses seriously out of joint.

There are only about 30 of us in the company, so we’re not talking a huge saving here – plus the angst has already wasted about 20 hours of debate and water-cooler grouching, so management probably won’t save a cent.

How do we turn this around, Aunty?

No Plus One,

Sydney

Dear No Plus One,

Do you want your partner at the Christmas party or your colleague to keep their job?

Seriously, wake up! Bosses don’t make these decisions because they want to be mean, they make these decisions because they need to run their business and keep you in a job.

Believe me, they want your partners at the Christmas party, but it’s just not doable this year. And these savings might seem small to you, but it’s probably part of a number of cost-saving measures your bosses are taking.

So suck it up and look on the bright side – you’re not going to get stuck talking to someone’s witless husband who wants to tell you about his model train collection.

Be smart,

Your Aunty B

To read more Aunty B advice, click here.

Email your questions, problems and issues to auntyb@smartcompany.com.au right now!