Whether you are the boss, or an employee put in charge, planning an office party can be a lot of work. The employees will be able to tell if you just threw it together, so take your time and do it properly. The office party will be a place for the employees to relax and socialize in a casual environment. You want it to be something they will enjoy.
Decide on a budget:
The budget is a big part of the party. Most companies allow for a certain amount for each party, and others pay nothing towards a party. It will all depend on your company.
If you will be deciding on the budget, you will need to determine how many guests may be attending. I would recommend you spend anywhere between $50 and $75 per person. This is just an average; if you are willing to do more of the work it may be less.
Ask Employees:
Distribute a survey to your employees. Ask for their opinions on different ideas you may have.
Things to ask:
-Time of day
-Types of entertainment
-Where to hold the party?
-Any food allergies or preferences they may have
-Leave an area for them to put a couple of their own ideas.
Do not just offer a blank page with the questions. Provide options that you were considering, and let the majority decide.
Put together a small party committee to help you. This can be a few other employees that you feel will be helpful. Assign specific tasks to each person, and provide them with a budget.
Have your committee go through the surveys, and provide a list of the employees’ preferences. You will not be able to satisfy all of the staff. Take the majority’s opinion, and work with it.
Be sure to have weekly meetings to update everyone on the progress. You do not want to have last-minute problems. Weekly meetings will allow you to fix everything in a timely manner.
Decide On A Location:
Your location should be convenient for your employees, and large enough for everyone to be comfortable.
If you are working on a small budget, consider using your office. When doing this, ask for permission. You may have exclusions on drinks or entertainment, so ask before you do a lot of planning.
Menu:
When you send out the survey, give them a few different options. You want to serve foods that everyone will enjoy. There is nothing worse than going to a party, and leaving hungry.
Decide whether you want to serve a full meal, fancy hors d’oeuvres , or simple finger foods. Be sure there will be plenty for each person.
Invitations:
If this will be an office party, you can simply send emails or newsletters to your employees. Include all of the information that they should know. Have them RSVP a week before the party.
Ex:
Location, Time, Schedule, attire required, anything that pertains to the party.
Allow your guests to invite a guest, assuming this meets with management’s approval. Your employees are together all the time. Having different faces will make it more sociable.
Decorate:
Try to have different, creative decorations. Make it memorable. You do not have to spend a lot of money on decorations. Look online for DIY decorating ideas.
Gifts:
If this event is a Holiday party, you may want to exchange gifts. If you would like gifts, set a limit on prices. You do not want someone to receive a very expensive item, and another a less expensive item. Make it a fair exchange.
Now you can sit back and enjoy your event. These are just a few very simple things that will assist you in planning a great office party. Be sure you plan, and keep everything organized. It will make is so much easier, and more enjoyable to you and the guests.
