HSBC announces ban on festive sweaters

HSBC has revealed that it has banned its employees from wearing sweaters with a festive theme, on the grounds that it could be considered unprofessional.

This is a decision that the bank made following concerns that were raised by its customers. The fear was that those working in customer-facing positions could risk upsetting people who are dealing with financial troubles or bereavement. A spokesperson for the company told the Telegraph that it was motivated by the need for workplace sensitivity and professionalism, but added that employees would still be able to celebrate the season. Options available include Christmas dinners, private workplace celebrations and putting up decorations.

It has led to a discussion about how HR should handle such matters. Sonia Moore from the Sytuate training firm said that a plan had to come first. She argued that this then had to be explained well in advance to employees and include an element of choice.

Moore then went on to add that organisations should celebrate Christmas in a manner that is appropriate to their culture. This makes it something that an employee relations consultant in Northampton could help them with.

Paul Kelbie created the Incentifi rewards and wellbeing platform. Speaking to HR Magazine, he said:

“The smartest employers are shifting towards opt-in celebration, team-led initiatives and values-based challenges that reward the behaviours they want to see.”

He continued by saying that neither celebrations nor culture should be a forced thing, but instead should happen naturally as a result of how people feel about the organisation they work for and their jobs.