Life of the Party – 4 Tips for Nailing Your Next Staff Event

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Most working individuals know that staff parties go one of two ways. They can either be a treat and a positive talking point amongst employees over their coffee break, or they’re a bore, where staff will gladly prioritize any mundane activity over their attendance. The sad truth is that it only takes one disorganized, hot mess of a function to spoil your reputation as the staffer who throws bad parties and doesn’t appreciate their personnel!

You don’t need to be an events planner to pull off a great staff party. Most of the time, it’s a lapse in organizational duties and attention to detail that turns a festivity into a misery. Take note of these tips below to avoid this happening to you at all costs and make your next work event one to remember:

A Personal Touch

A staff event shows your employees that you care about them on a personal level and wish to celebrate holidays or milestones altogether. Why not take it to the next level with gifts? Choosing high-quality corporate gifts is quick to do but leaves a lasting impression. They can also complement the party decor! Choose wrapping or gift bags that match the venue and lay them across the seating. If it’s a Christmas party, have them ready under the tree or if it’s Halloween, choose some sweet edibles as a way to say thank you to your staff.

Take Your Time With Timing

Consider the work schedules and lifestyles of your staff before choosing when the party will take place. Ideally, you want it to be convenient for the majority of your employees. If your workplace is closed on the weekend or a certain day, hosting the event on that day or the night before means nobody will have the excuse of work. Avoid holding a party during popular holidays or other events you know your staff members attend or celebrate with their loved ones, and give plenty of notice when you set the date. Sending a group email and putting up posters a few weeks in advance is always a good idea.

Be Concise With Alcohol and Conduct Guidelines

If you’re a recently established workplace or you have a lot of new staff, it’s important to lay down the appropriate etiquette and remind attendees that they’re still representatives of their workplace. This is probably the quickest and easiest point to cover as all it takes is sending one staff party email reminder outlining your alcohol policy. Detail whether BYO is allowed and if there will be a company tab as well as stating that workplace conduct standards will still apply.

Conscious Catering

It’s common sense that leaving your guests hungry means they’ll be departing your event bitter. Don’t ever skimp on catering for your staff event, especially if it’s taking place after a long working day. Remember to provide for staff with dietary requirements; preparing for this is as easy as sending around an email RSVP. If your party is themed, ensuring the catering is in-line with the theme adds a more memorable touch! Some venues provide catering, but often you can hire your own and choose from a variety of prices and styles. This way, no attendee has to worry about monitoring something as mundane as food, and you can enjoy the festivities to the fullest.

Everybody enjoys getting festive after working hard and meeting KPIs. Get to know your personnel and let them know you value them by ticking off these tips when planning your next staff party!

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