Let’s face it, planning a holiday event for a business is not everyone’s cup of tea. It always seems like too much work for what often turns out to be an underwhelming event. Fortunately, we have some tips for you to help you turn your party from a meh to a blast!
Ask for Help
Organize a committee consisting of the most social staff members. With the help of your popular staff members, you will be able to come up with more fun party ideas, and there will be less resistance to the plans made. You can source ideas from employees by putting up a suggestion box or giving out questionnaires.
Choose a Different Location
If you have been holding your holiday events at the workplace, then that’s where you’ve been going wrong. It is hard to get your employees into that fun holiday mood if they are surrounded by things that remind them of work. Hold the party in a more casual and non-restrictive environment. There are many options available, and it doesn’t always have to be a hotel/restaurant. Why not choose a day-cruise ship, museum, art gallery, country inn, ice rinks, or any other non-conventional location. You can also choose to go on a city tour on a chartered bus.
It is the Season for Giving
Many people love donating to charities during the holidays. Designate a specific area at the party where the employees can donate non-perishable food items and unwrapped toys. The donated items can then be collected and donated to different charities in your locale.
The Power of Music
If hiring a live band or a DJ seems like an expensive option, you can always provide a quality sound system and lots of great diverse music. Another great solution to your music needs is to appreciate in-house talent. You might have some employees with hidden music prowess. Add to the fun with glow sticks and grab a few light up toys in bulk at wholesale prices.
Bring Everyone Together
Holding the party in the afternoon is ideal if only the employees are attending. However, in case you are holding the party in the evening hours, then it is wise to let your staff members bring along their spouses. This will help to promote a better co-existe between your employees and their spouses. In case you are holding a family event, then don’t forget to include some special activities, refreshments, and gifts for the kids.
Maintain Responsibility
Be sure to provide refreshing non-alcoholic drinks for non-drinkers. Based on the situation, you as the employer, might be held liable in the event that one of your employees causes an accident while driving home drunk from your party. Fortunately, there are measures you can take to avert this, for example, limiting the number of drinks per person, providing a suitable ride home, or setting up a designated driver carpool. It is Better to Give–Real Gifts
You should avoid giving out items adorned with your company logo as gifts. Regardless of how beautiful or useful the item is, it will lose its intimacy and will just serve as a promotional object. The best kind of gift is one that has been specifically selected for that individual. You can go the extra step and inscribe their name on it.
This is the perfect time of the year to reward your employees by giving them a festive break from their daily endeavors. This is not only a great occasion for the employees to interact in a more friendly and casual setting but it can also serve as a moment to interact with clients. By following these tips, you are up for one memorable party.