It is nearly that time of year and you have just been given the most difficult task in the world – organising the work Christmas Party. This area of events is a minefield and should have a danger sign posted alongside.
So what are the options? Budget and timescale are very much the key elements which need to be resolved early. People organise their diaries well in advance and need notice so that they can attend evening functions. Do you want to be known for discriminating against all the working parents in the office who can’t organise childcare issues at the last minute? The other option is hold it during the day. However with businesses fighting for every penny, using valuable working time may not be appropriate.
Already the need for a health warning is essential and budget hasn’t even been mentioned.
In terms of budget, is the employer going to pay for it all (remember you have a tax allowance per member of staff), some or none of the expense? In today’s challenging economic times this consideration is a must for the business but also employees. Careful consideration is required as to what level of contribution if any is required and also what commitment from staff. Again do you want to be seen discriminating against those who and can’t afford it.
Probably alarm bells are ringing now.
Once you have established the basic platform for the event, then clear ground rules need to be established as to what is and what is not suitable behaviour. In so many occasions this is implied or just basically assumed. Employers hope that the current employee handbook cover it, but most are too vague to deal with it. Enable people to have fun, but identify boundaries.
The next big thing is – is it onsite or at an external venue or party night. That is a matter of choice, but sometimes these can be limiting in terms of what is on offer and expense. If flexibility is key, then maybe postponing and holding it in January may be more suitable – more choice, less pressure and something to look forward to, may be more appropriate. It may even be cheaper!
At Merklands Events & PR, knowing what the client wants to achieve is essential in delivering an experience which rewards staff but provides a opportunity for people to express themselves and relax. The Christmas Party should not be an onerous occasion on the organiser and guests but a chance to have some fun. It is a great way of outsourcing that stress and joining in on the fun!
Calum McCallum, Managing Director, Merklands Events & PR
Twitter | @merklands Twitter | @calummccallum www.merklands.co.uk
Note – Merklands Events & PR is a multi-service consultancy organising events and managing public relations and engagement for our clients. Merklands organises everything from business-to-business conferences and exhibitions to product launches and gala events. Merklands have the right team on board to deliver your community, political or public engagement by using all forms of media to communicate and manage what you want to achieve.
Merklands Events & PR is a consultancy organising events and managing public relations for our clients. Merklands organises everything from business-to-business conferences and exhibitions to product launches and gala events. Merklands also advise businesses how best to use their resources and assist them to make the best out of their events and communications strategy for delivery. For more information on how we can help you please contact us.