Company Holiday Parties? Workers Say, ‘Bah, Humbug!’
TORONTO -- Many workers are saying "Bah, humbug!" to company holiday parties, a new OfficeTeam survey suggests. Although 77% of senior managers interviewed said their employer is holding a holiday celebration this year, only 55% of employees give the festivities high marks.
Just under 20% of respondents said their companies don't plan to hold a holiday party this year. Perhaps that's for the best because 45% of the workers say they don't enjoy company parties at all.
"Involving employees in the planning process is a great way to generate enthusiasm for an event," said Robert Hosking, executive director of OfficeTeam. http://www.officeteam.com
"Year-end get-togethers that celebrate the team's successes can build camaraderie and help start the New Year on a positive note."
OfficeTeam offers five ecommendation on how to host a holiday party everyone enjoys:
- Find out what's on colleagues' wish lists. Invite employees to suggest a theme or location for the event. Also, encourage co-workers to help organise and promote the celebration.
- Eat, drink and be merry. Casual events can be fun and relaxing for employees -- and are easy to plan. Schedule a potluck, offer an in-house catered meal or get together for lunch at a restaurant for casual dining.
- Have a jolly time. Encourage interaction among staff with a white elephant gift exchange or office holiday decoration contest. Alternatively, organize a group activity such as bowling or miniature golf to provide employees with an opportunity to mingle outside of work.
- Embrace the spirit of giving. Hold a holiday donation drive as part of your festivities, or gather a team to volunteer at a local nonprofit organization.
- Spread good cheer. Reserve a few minutes during the event to thank employees for their hard work during the year.
Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.
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