For many, the business Christmas party is the highlight of the work calendar. But sometimes it can lead to unnecessary stress, conflict and tension. When planning your work Christmas party, consider the nature and preferences of your team and the kind of event which will be the most enjoyable for them.
Office Christmas party ideas
While it can be tempting to plan an extravagant party full of dancing, excitement, and drinking, this isn’t what a lot of people prefer. Many employees are happier with more laid-back and relaxing social events which are shorter and less strenuous. Consider distributing a survey in advance to collect people’s opinions and preferences so you can plan corporate Christmas parties which your staff are sure to enjoy.
Ideally plan the party to take place within work hours and try to provide food and refreshments. Pick activities, party themes, games or team building exercises to get everybody involved and allow different people to work together and enjoy themselves. This could include quizzes, puzzles, icebreakers and board games.
When deciding on a venue, choose somewhere befitting your plans, the nature of the event, and your attendees.
If you are providing food, ensure you can accommodate any dietary requirements. Try to control the amount of alcohol consumed too, as this is often the cause of altercations. Also, invite everyone but do not make attendance compulsory so nobody feels forced to go.
Keeping parties fun and safe
Consider Christmas parties to be an extension of the workplace, with all the usual rules still in place. It may be worth issuing an announcement in advance reminding people of this.
Conduct risk assessments of the venue and transport (if applicable). Ensure that if any incidents occur that disciplinary action takes place and normal workplace procedure is followed.
Lastly, discourage people from discussing work matters or pay as this can cause gossip and tension, especially when people are drinking.
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