2020 has presented new challenges and changed the way many engage with their colleagues. If you are on the fence about planning a party, then you have come to the right place. Celebrating this year is more important than ever and here are just some of the reasons why.
1. Firstly, and most importantly, your staff deserve to be thanked and made to feel appreciated! This is true of any year, but in 2020 there has already been too much uncertainty. Let them know they are valued and that they are part of a team.
2. Parties are a great way to learn more about your people. Even if this year’s event will be virtual, it’s a great opportunity to see them as more than their company roles. Who knows? The serious accountant might be a closet comedian! You could set a theme or add in games that will help you to find these personality gems!
3. An event on the calendar can be a great motivator. Something to look forward to and a common goal to ‘get through this now’ and celebrate together then.
4. Bringing people together who are usually in different departments can be great for encouraging new connections. In 2020, some newly onboarded team members may have no sense of their colleagues’ personalities, having had little or no time together! What better way to feel included than to share the experience of an engaging online event?
5. If you pride yourself on having a high-energy, fun workplace, then your culture demands it! Think about your messaging and see how a celebration can reenforce company values.
6. Including the staff in brainstorming and planning can help build anticipation and foster an ongoing sense of team spirit. Added bonus: less chance of the party falling flat if there’s been greater staff consultation in the lead up!
7. There’s an advantage to having everyone in one place (even if that ‘one place’ is a virtual party experience using an online platform) to share company wins, verbalise appreciation and present awards to recognise milestones or special achievements. These deserve more than just a regular workday setting.
8. Surveys show feeling appreciated is high on the list of reasons people stay in a role. Not celebrating could send the message that efforts throughout the year were not worthy of acknowledgement. A thank you party is that can assist staff retention.
9. For senior level staff and owners, end of year functions offer insight into the dynamics they may usually miss. How people engage with one another in a more relaxed setting may be enlightening and some honest feedback on processes or conditions may be more forthcoming.
10. What better way to clean the slate, ready for 2021, than with a celebration that acknowledges the rollercoaster that was 2020? Onward and upward for the new year!
If you are looking for engaging virtual experiences for your team celebration, Honeycomb can help with all inclusive packs and entertainment. If you’re not sure an event is the way to go, check out our 2020 gifting blog and thank your team with a gift they will value.
