A holiday office party is a good time to show your employees how much they mean to you. It’s also a seasonal event that can help boost morale and build stronger relationships. Like any other holiday party, a lot of preparation needs to go into the office party. Here’s how you can throw a successful one this year.
Date & Time
The holidays can be a stressful time for many people. You don’t want to make this any more stressful on your employees, which is why it’s important to pick a convenient time and date for the holiday party.
Deciding to throw a holiday party earlier or late in the season—late October to early January—can ensure your workers aren’t scrambling for time and overwhelmed because of too many commitments.
Another idea is to have a holiday party during business hours or to hold an office party during the last couple of hours of a workday. This gives your employees something to look forward to at the end of the day and can help boost office morale.
Remember, a holiday office party is to show your appreciation, not have your employees feel like they’re skating on ice, sliding from one commitment or holiday party to the next.
Location
There are many factors to consider when picking the right location. (I mean, think about the budget). If the budget allows for an off-campus party, however, then it’s a good idea to treat your employees to a venue that’s not at the office, as employees likely associate the office with work. Having the party at a different location can put your staff members at ease during this festive time.
If you can’t book a ballroom, then bring the party to the office by renting games and entertainment for your guests, such as pool tables rentals. Having games is especially important if kids are allowed at the party.
Dietary Needs
While food allergies and intolerances should already be communicated, meeting all dietary needs at an office party can ensure everyone’s wants and needs are met. Go above and beyond by having your employees fill out a holiday food and beverage survey so they can decide on which foods they would like to see at the party (and any special requests).
In terms of beverages, you’ll need to decide if alcohol will be allowed at the party.
According to Alcohol.org, “While nearly 65 percent of US companies hold some holiday or end-of-the-year office party, more than half include alcohol at their event, and only 47 percent of those companies say they regulate the amount of booze their employees consume.”
Regulation can ensure your holiday party stays safe and no one goes over the top.
Bring in Experts
If you’d rather have a team of experts help with the planning or simply don’t have the time to plan a holiday party, then you can hire a party planning team to make the big decisions.Group Team Builders, for example, is a team building company (located in Tampa, FL) that helps companies connect with their teams by creating outings, events, etc. Your party doesn’t have to include a traditional theme or setting, and a team building company can help your party see desired results as well as flood your party with fun.
There are an unlimited amount of ways to throw a holiday office party, and we hope the tips above can help you throw the best one yet.