Christmas Parties Are Good For Business

18/09/2006

It’s Christmas party time already and if you’re thinking of cutting back on the office celebrations, think again. It could cost you dearly in terms of staff morale and motivation. Particularly given that the new year is often a time when people look for new jobs.

The fact is, the office Christmas party is an essential event for staff. Research just out reveals that it is more important to staff than other incentives such as gym membership and empowerment schemes Company bosses should use Christmas as an opportunity to celebrate the year’s success, improve on relationships and thank people for their hard work. Even if business hasn’t been great, it’s a chance to get people geared up to make 2007 a success.

But what’s the key to a successful event? According to Russell Davey, of corporate party organisers, West End Events: “The most important thing about an office Christmas party is that it appeals to everyone and cuts across job titles and departments. There’s nothing more harmful than an event that has been organised with the bosses in mind where more junior staff feel uncomfortable and unable to relax.”

It doesn’t matter what size your company is or what budget you’ve got, the choice of Christmas party venues and entertainment is vast. Restaurants and hotels have been ready with Christmas menus and festive entertainment options since the end of summer.

Sue Brazier, head of a marketing consultancy who is currently organising her office’s party says: “The difficulty can be finding something to do that’s a little bit different and shows staff that you’ve really thought about the event. ”

For something a bit different, there are plenty of party organising companies offering themed and shared parties from Elvis and Abba nights to snow parties in a selection of venues including stately homes and trendy bars. Or invite some unexpected guests to your own party. Companies like Splitting Images can supply celebrity and pop look-alikes to mingle with guests and corporatemagicians.com can put you in touch with magicians, mindreaders and illusionists. “

One innovative company is offering Christmas party drum circles . The Drum Café will come along to your venue and teach everyone to drum. According to founder, Brett Schlesinger “People love it. Drumming is infectious and it gets every in the party mood and importantly, working together. Even the quietest members of staff get involved. No one has to be musically gifted either because group drumming is so easily picked up.”

So don’t be a scrooge. The office bash is a morale boosting social event that makes staff feel valued – which can only be good for business.