During the holiday season, many employees are strapped for time, so holding an extravagant holiday office party after company hours may not be appreciated by everyone. Employees also have responsibilities like kids that make a weekend party difficult to attend. Your risk management department will also appreciate you considering activities that involve less liability than an open bar. In addition, if your company holiday party comes at the expense of year-end bonuses or profit sharing, you’re not likely to have too many employees jumping for joy.
Instead of breaking the bank with your business’ holiday party, consider some less expensive yet festive options that are sure to resonate with your employees and earn their gratitude. From coordinating an ugly sweater day to organizing a volunteer event, here are 5 alternatives your employees will appreciate.
Coordinate an Ugly Sweater Day
Ugly sweater parties have been popular for years, so why not set aside a day during the holiday season to celebrate what’s become an important part of American culture. You can gather all of your employees together for some refreshments and snacks and award prizes in several categories, including best homemade sweater, ugliest sweater, and most festive sweater. It’s sure to get your employees talking and put a smile on each of their faces.
Alternatively, you could purchase a bunch of cheap generic sweaters and set up craft stations where your employees can create their own ugly holiday sweaters. From mini wreaths to lights to tiny presents, you can get pretty creative with your decorative options. Just don’t forget the photo booth!
Arrange a Holiday Baked Goods Party
Almost everyone likes sweets, particularly during the holidays. So how about arranging a potluck holiday baked good party? Your employees can bake or buy their favorite goodies and you can supply punch, eggnog, soft drinks, and hot cider.
At the event, you can award prizes or gift certificates for the tastiest treats and create a festive atmosphere with holiday music. Just make sure to specify what each baked good is so that individuals with food allergies can avoid any items they may be allergic to.
Host a Catered Lunch
An in-house catered lunch is a nice alternative to the traditional holiday office party. It won’t be as time-consuming as a holiday party, which will help ensure that your employees have more time to wrap things up before they leave for vacation.
You can take a poll months ahead of time to find out which restaurant your employees prefer. And make sure you offer a variety of dishes and sides, including vegetarian options for those employees who don’t eat meat.
Organize a Volunteer Event
Rather than hosting a party for your employees, consider organizing a volunteer event. Take an afternoon or day off during the holiday season to deliver turkeys to needy families, bring gifts to sick children at your local hospital, or help Habitat for Humanity build a home for a less fortunate family.
Not only will your employees have the opportunity to contribute to a worthy cause, they’ll also get the chance to experience the true meaning of the holiday season. In addition, they’ll have the opportunity to work closely with co-workers from other departments and build relationships with them.
Plan Your Office Party for Another Time of the Year
There’s no rule that says you have to schedule your office party during the holiday season. Yes, it’s nice to celebrate the season with your employees and reward them for a job well done. But the end of the year can be a stressful time for everyone.
Taking big chunks of time away from your employees when they are trying to finish projects and work before they leave for the holidays may not always be the best idea. As an alternative, consider planning an office party to commemorate a significant event in your company’s history or to celebrate another season or month. Chances are more party venues will be available and less expensive, not to mention you won’t have to spend time decorating.
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