Hosting a holiday party is a wonderful way to celebrate the year with employees while signifying unity and teamwork. However, it's essential to plan carefully to ensure the event’s success while minimizing any potential risks. Here are nine tips to help you host a great company holiday party:
1. Make Attendance Optional
Attending the event should be a choice, not an obligation. Unless employees will be compensated for their time at the party, ensure that it’s clear that attendance is voluntary.
2. Plan Early and Be Inclusive
The key to a successful party lies in careful and inclusive planning. Begin by selecting a non-working day and, if feasible, choose a location outside the office premises. Invite employees' guests to ensure a relaxed environment. To keep the event inclusive, center your theme around a generic holiday, winter, or year-end celebration instead of a specific religious holiday.
3. Adhere to a Budget
Early planning also provides an opportunity to have a clear picture of your budget, which should include the venue, catering, entertainment, decorations, and transportation.
4. Avoid Work-Related Activities
Refrain from conducting work-related activities like award presentations or company updates at the party and encourage a social and relaxed atmosphere.
5. Thoughtful Menu Planning
Reach out to employees about their dietary needs and preferences. Consider a location that offers a wide selection of food and beverages and can accommodate different dietary situations. Request for signage indicating ingredients to avoid any allergen issues.
6. Promote Responsible Behavior
Ensure that company policies, including those regarding harassment, still apply at the event. Reinforce the expectations for decorous behavior before the event.
7. Offer a Variety of Beverages
If alcohol is being served, also offer sophisticated non-alcoholic alternatives. To encourage moderate drinking, consider a cash bar or limit the amount of free alcohol through drink tickets. Providing transportation, particularly for employees who may have imbibed, is another way to ensure safety.
8. Decorate Creatively and Plan Entertainment
A well-decorated venue and engaging activities can make the party more enjoyable. Activities could be based on interaction, team-building, or just simple fun.
9. Follow Up with Appreciation
Express gratitude to all employees after the event for making the party successful and for their efforts throughout the year.
Remember, the objective of a holiday party is to let employees unwind and feel appreciated. If planned well, it can become a cherished event everyone looks forward to each year.
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