Work Christmas Party - It might sound quite a light-hearted topic, but the reality for small businesses can be very different. Not only is there the cost of the evening to think about, but, assuming a good night was had by all, there's the potential lost work hours the following day (unless you can afford a Friday night party of course). For small businesses already struggling the party can be a real burden, although bosses are only too aware that not having a party can equally create problems through negativity in the office and employees not feeling valued.

I've been involved in large and small parties, and helped organise one at a Birmingham hotel some years ago. With a casino, disco and meal it was definitely the top end of parties, and there's no denying it was a good night, but that was because of who I was with as much as the setting. I've also been to parties that are basically a night at the pub, which have been loads of fun too.