End of year work functions can be the ideal way to finish the year on a connected note.
I love this opportunity to say 'thanks' to my team who have supported me tirelessly over the year. It is also a great chance to give a few special awards and mentions to particular people who have gone above and beyond in making a real contribution to the ongoing success of my company.
Here are my top 4 ways to create an unforgettable work Christmas function:
1. Dress to a theme that has relevance and a meaning to your company
This year we choose China as it was our 20th anniversary and China is used to mark this in marriage terms.
Every year we plan our parties around a theme. Each year is different (Island girl, 1940s, wild west) and the girls love getting together in the hours before the party to get themselves dolled up for a fabulous night out. The only problem is some of the costumes are so good it's a mission to pick the prize for best dressed… yes, we do award this.
2. Eat, drink and be merry
Really show your team your appreciation by splashing out on the best your budget will allow (if you don't have a lot of money, get creative). I love introducing my retail team from around the country to the amazing cuisine the Waikato has to offer and always look for a new premise each year. Think outside the square. They are worth it!
Watch the newcomers, it can be a little nerve racking for them and they can over-indulge in the festive spirit … drunk at the xmas do is not a great look!
3. Entertainment for the evening
It is a must that everyone in attendance has a great time and you may have a wide variety of ages - whether they're drinking or not. Some of our best team parties have included a karaoke night (where everyone dressed up as the performer of the song they sung) and the catwalk fashion show to celebrate the move into our new building that we put on at our Head Office. There are so many more options out there then hiring a Santa to give out a few lollies. And don't forget to look around your team and see who has a talent to share and ask them to give a special performance. This year one of our warehouse team members choose to do a wonderful solo Indian dance for us all... Just fabulous!
4. Prize giving
Use this gathering as an opportunity to show outstanding members of your team your appreciation with a special mention or award. Each year I give out trophies for Employee of the Year, Miss Personality, Sales Superstar and Most Improved Store etc. as well as a range of smaller prizes for particularly worthy people.
Don't go in with a Scrooge Mcduck mentality. This is the time to acknowledge and celebrate, no matter what has happened throughout your year. Look forward as to what you can be - never backwards as to what you have been.
Annah
(Here are a few shots from our latest China themed Christmas party...)
0 comments:
Post a Comment