Are you looking to plan a Corporate Christmas Party this year but don’t know where to start? We understand that planning such an important event like this can cause a lot of stress. It has to go right. Employees never seem to forget a bad corporate holiday party. Here are the answers to some top FAQs to help make your corporate Christmas party go as planned, have a read below:
How to have a Christmas party and yet respect other beliefs so no one is alienated? It may be a good idea to call it a Holiday party or a Winter party rather than a Christmas party. That way it will encourage everyone to go. Also it may be wise to provide some activities or other forms of entertainment so that people with different beliefs don't feel pressured to drink alcohol.
Should I have it in the office or contract a venue? This will depend on your company's needs and budget.
In The Office:
The pros for having it in the office are that people may not feel as much pressure about dressing up. This means you may get more of a turn out. You can bring in lots of food and drink so it won't cost you too much. Plus you won't have to add on transport to and from the venue which can save you a great deal too!
The cons are that your employees may think it's a bit cheap. After all they have worked hard for the year and may feel as though they deserve a proper night out. Also, you will have to deal with all the tidying up the workspace at the end of the night. That creates a long night for the holiday party planning team.
For great tips on decorating the office for an office Christmas party, check out the Savvy Event Planner Podcast interview with my wife, Dierdre. She planned an in office party that amazed everyone. You can find the interview at: http://SavvyEventPodcast.com/episode1 An accompanying article includes pictures of the office transformation.
Using An Outside Venue:
The pros for contracting a venue are that it's a night away from the office to let your hair down. People may feel more at ease socializing away from work. It's also a nice treat for your employees, showing them that you have really made an effort.
The cons are that the night is going to cost you a small fortune. By the time you pay for the venue hire, food, drinks and transport it will turn out to be an extremely expensive night. Also you may find that more people will drop out due to personal commitments where if you have it at the office, those people can always stay for just an hour after work.
Should alcohol be served? Again, it depends on your company's beliefs and image. You could provide “some” alcohol or if you are holding the corporate Christmas Party at a contracted venue maybe put some money behind the bar. This way once the alcohol or the money runs out, people will have to pay for their own which they may feel reluctant to do and therefore shouldn't get too drunk. At the same time you have shown that you are willing to supply some and aren't a complete bah humbug!
We have a tight budget, what are some options? Social hour with appetizers may fit the budget and make people feel appreciated. Another option would be a long lunch break with a meal and a few drinks.
Is corporate Christmas party entertainment needed? The right corporate entertainment can put your guests in a relaxed atmosphere and reduce workplace stress. It is a positive way to show employees they are valued. Entertainment is often the most memorable part of any event – so budgeting for a quality program provides a lasting impression. For smaller budgets, consider less expensive options, including employee talents or DJ's. Just be aware entertainment quality will impact your event.
Should we provide corporate gifts? Gifting during the holidays is a common practice. The gift could be a bonus, or the party itself. Talk with management as gifting may come from a different budget!
I hope these FAQs have helped you with your corporate Christmas party planning. For addition corporate christmas party entertainment ideas, or if you have any further questions, please contact Tom Crowl's office. He is happy to help you locate the perfect office party entertainment.
