As we enter the second holiday season since the start of COVID-19, business owners are getting creative when it comes to company parties. Many companies are determining that basic virtual events may not suffice this year, so they are rethinking year-end celebrations completely.
The lifting of COVID restrictions in many places has employers examining their options, including in-person parties or something else entirely. Due to hybrid schedules and remote workers, an in-person event may not work, so employers should determine which type of party is suitable for their employees. There are many factors to consider.
Gather Employee Input
To determine the most engaging type of party, consider asking employees for their thoughts. Gathering party suggestions can help employers gauge interest, understand concerns, and find ways to make the parties entertaining for all participants, whether virtual or in person. In addition, feedback from employees will enable an employer to determine the party size, timing, location (virtual or in person), and even a theme.
Stay Safe
Employers must consider employee safety and follow updated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, which recommend having year-end celebrations outside or with masks. Employers should communicate the safety protocols to employees throughout the planning process and consider limiting guests to employees only.
Be Creative
There are numerous ways to host a fun and engaging remote or hybrid party. Some out-of-the-box ideas employers may consider are drive-through events; joint watch parties, with the company delivering movie packages to employees; a “Secret Santa” gift exchange; virtual ornament making; or cooking class events.
Volunteer
Instead of a party, business owners should consider a companywide volunteer event. Employers can work with employees to determine the benefiting nonprofit so it aligns with personal giving experiences and preferences. This initiative could establish a new tradition that bonds employees and strengthens the company’s culture, all while spreading cheer.
Because employers are experiencing new business norms, they should take this opportunity to stay employee-focused, boost morale, and enhance company culture. When employees realize the care and attention taken to ensure they have a meaningful and safe celebration, it can strengthen the organization and prepare it for a prosperous new year.
Kelly Rice is a manager of HR operations with Insperity, a provider of HR and business performance solutions. For more information about Insperity, visit www.insperity.com.