Many team members look forward to the work Christmas party all year. It is an opportunity for everyone from all over the business to get together in a more relaxed environment.
When alcohol is introduced it's easy to see how lines can get crossed.

It is the employers job to make sure everyone knows the expected behavior and the guidelines, without this some can get too relaxed and take things too far and become inappropriate. This could range from Monday morning gossip through to disciplinary procedures needing to happen. Many employers give their staff some leeway at the Christmas party but as an employee you need to make sure you know the boundaries.

As an employer set some rules in advance and make sure everyone knows these to ensure safety and enjoyment. Think about providing food, transport options and a plan of the event to ensure a smooth outcome. You need to lead by example and keep an eye out for anyone who is edging towards crossing the line. You might need to tactfully remove people from a situation or conversation. The safety and well-being of your team is your responsibility and if an employee is feeling uncomfortable, unsafe or unwell it is your responsibility to do something about it. 

If last years Christmas party became a little too rowdy or inappropriate maybe think about changing it from an evening party to a day time activity or a family event.

When it comes to applying for a position, cover letters are crucial. They introduce you to the employer and tell them how the experience outlined in your CV makes you a great match for their position.

Make sure you can write a winning one.

1. Your cover letter might not be the first thing that is looked at but if your application doesn't have one you're putting yourself at a disadvantage.
All application processes are different but it's generally expected that you include a brief, relevant cover letter. Pay attention to what the employer requests in the ad and make sure you follow it. If they ask for one in Word, don't send it in a PDF. If you emailing an application the email content replaces the need to attach a cover letter.

2. Keep it brief
Any correspondence you send in an application demonstrates how you might communicate with people inside and outside the company if you worked there. Keep it professional. If in an email four or five paragraphs is enough and if you are attaching a cover letter it should be no longer than one page. The purpose of the cover letter is to offer the reader a snap shot of who you are, your potential fit for the position and want to make them read your CV.

3. Get to the point
Explain why you're the right fit for the job straight away. The opening sentence of your first paragraph should include your most relevant qualification (if you have one) and your objective. "With a background in closing contracts at top organisations, I am confident that I will excel in the role of Sales Executive." The cover letter is the opportunity to tell the person reading it which role you are applying for and why you are interested in it and your CV then goes into more detail about why you are a good fit.

4. Don't just copy your CV
A cover letter should expand upon the relevant points, rather than repeat them. Once you have gotten the recruiters attention with your opening statement, introduce yourself and include how you heard about the role, why you want to apply for it and any relevant understanding you have about the position and the company. Show that you understand the culture of the company you are applying to, if their website is in informal conversation speak to them like that in your application.

5. Know who you are talking to
If the job ad says who you should address the application to make sure you do that. If it is unclear stick with "To whom it may concern."

Follow these simple tips and you'll be on the right track with your cover letter.

When candidates are hard to find, employers need to think creatively to find hidden talent. Experts share five top tips for filling hard-to-fill roles.

1. Use a recruitment agency

2. Use a recruitment agency

3. Use a recruitment agency

4. Use a recruitment agency

​5. Use a recruitment agency