Companies Up Budgets for Holiday Parties.

• Position: THE WORKPLACE - Brief article

How will holiday cheer be spread in workplaces this season? According to research from staffing firm OfficeTeam, Menlo Park, Calif., 93% of senior managers say their company will be hosting year-end festivities. Of those who noted holiday activities are taking place, respondents identified off-site and on-site parties (48% each) and office decorations (45%) as the most-common plans.

When it comes to seasonal soirees, 41% of organizations are planning to spend more this year, and only seven percent anticipate cutting costs. Does that mean workers have to make an appearance at these events? No matter what the budget, 66% of managers indicate there is an unwritten rule employees should attend.

Many professionals also are in the holiday giving spirit, as 58% hand out year-end presents in the office; half of those employees provide gifts to colleagues; and 35% give one to their boss. The research suggests professionals are eager to take on the role of Santa's helper: 84% of workers who give out holiday presents do so because they want to, not because they feel obligated.

Among the...