Celebrations for different important events in co-workers lives are important.  People spend a large part of their day with co-workers and become close friends with many of them.  So taking the time to celebrate a new baby or a birthday can be very important.  But it can also get out of hand or cause problems in the work place.  This article gives some good advice on office celebrations that may be helpful…

Q. It seems there’s a cake in the conference room every week celebrating a birthday, a new baby or a wedding engagement. Are personal celebrations appropriate at work?

A. Yes, but in moderation. We spend a lot of time with our co-workers, so it is natural to want to note life events and achievements with them. It is also a morale booster, providing a chance to step away from your desk for a while and have some fun.

“People are so used to dealing with computers and not human beings; celebrations give us a chance to be human again, to connect with others in the organization,” said Peter Handal, chairman of Dale Carnegie Training, a company in Hauppauge, N.Y., that focuses on interpersonal skills.

But frequent celebrations can also cause resentment, if employees are continually asked to make financial contributions or if parties interfere with work.

“When it’s forced, it’s not fun,” said Kate Zabriskie, president of Business Training Works, a consulting firm in Washington that specializes in business etiquette.

“If you don’t have time to plan your kids’ birthday party,” she said, “you don’t want to be forced to help plan a party for someone who isn’t really your friend.”

If you want to read more, you can view the complete Kamaron Institute Job Market article by clicking the following link:

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/20/business/yourmoney/20career.html?ex=1337313600&en=571f6e939ad61752&ei=5088&partner=rssnyt&emc=rss

Kamaron Institute business news, educational career and parenting reference tips and resources.