3 Ways To Throw A Holiday Party People Will Actually Enjoy

Over time, office parties have gained a terrible reputation. When you bring up the yearly get-together to coworkers, they typically roll their eyes or look away, fearing forced laughter, inappropriate behavior, or worse, consequences that could endanger their careers.

However, it is feasible to host an office party that attendees will truly appreciate, and that can make the holidays more enjoyable.
A Fact of the Season
Office parties are a common occurrence for most people, since 83% of companies host them, per FourLoko data. Furthermore, 47% of Americans anticipate holiday parties, compared to 54% who detest them. It's interesting to see that engineers are probably most looking forward to their yearly meeting.

The study found that having to make small chats, feeling compelled to attend, and being in social situations with superiors are the main disadvantages of holiday parties. However, work parties can have some positive aspects. In addition to spending time with coworkers and getting into the holiday spirit, people enjoy the free food and beverages.

How to Make it Great

Make it Predictable

When organizing the celebration, keep in mind that people prefer consistency and are more at ease in situations where there is less uncertainty. Although it may seem excessive, inform them about parking locations, appropriate attire, and types of presents to bring. It will support the detail-obsessed members of your group and benefit those who might not be as comfortable interacting with others if you take the time to provide this level of detail.

Giving individuals the option to bring their own food allows them to make sure they'll have something they like and that works within their diet, but you'll also want to offer enough diversity to satisfy a wide range of palates and dietary constraints. They also receive some ownership and involvement, which is a very fantastic place to start for a motivated group.

Give It Structure

Even while it can seem paradoxical, the greatest gatherings aren't often free for everyone. Rather, they possess some structure. The misconception about mingling is that uncontrolled socializing genuinely helps people get to know others. However, the majority of people—introverts or extroverts—actually prefer to converse with people they already know rather than making new friends.

A great party is all about leadership. Someone who sets people up with each other and facilitates conversation by, say, bringing up a potential shared interest. All the better for holiday gatherings when introductions are made around this period. After a little period of time for individuals to get to know one another, invite them to go around and introduce themselves. As the evening wears on, this provides conversation starters for everyone. You stated that you went to MSU, and I did too. When you were there, where did you reside?

You can also think about organizing important tasks. Even corny games have the power to unite people because they give them a reason to socialize. Prepare a corn hole table or set up a photo booth so that attendees can snap (silly) selfies and engage in healthy team rivalry that fosters camaraderie.
Be Inclusive and Expansive
Be inclusive when choosing who to invite to a company party. 20% of businesses invite employees, and 44% invite solely employees, according to Price4Limo. According to FourLoko, 74% of attendees were permitted to bring a guest to the celebrations.

The greatest gatherings have a sufficient number of attendees to create a critical mass and enough of energy. Nobody likes to arrive at a party and feel alone or as though they arrived on the wrong day. Additionally, a wide variety of individuals from the company attend great parties. When your marketing team gets together, invite everyone in the team, including the main sales groups and members of the product team that you collaborate closely with throughout the year.

Think beyond the box when it comes to hosting events that foster community. If the company is substantial, you could think of having a get-together of the residents of the surrounding areas; for example, all the residents of a particular town outside the headquarters. Alternatively, you may host a party for the members of the affinity groups within the organization.

You may build experiences that bring people together while you have them together. Encourage everyone to wear red, or ask them to bring a narrative about their favorite work-related achievement from the previous year.

The main takeaway is to use holiday gatherings to foster unity and camaraderie rather than merely marking off another event on a calendar.

How to Love it

Of course, the enjoyment of even the most well-planned party depends on the attendees. Make sure to show up to work parties when you are invited. You'll have the chance to push your boundaries, even if it's outside your comfort zone, because growth is linked to happier lives.

Define boundaries beforehand as well. Sixty percent of businesses give away free beverages, according to FourLoko data, therefore it's not surprising that a lot of customers regretted their decisions. At parties, a sensible 80% of people set a limit on how much they drink. But, you can also decide how much information you will divulge. No matter how liberated and happy you are, keep in mind that the people around you are your colleagues, not your closest friends, so it's a good idea to avoid getting into a position where you're sharing too much.

Make connections with and acknowledge others around you while you're having fun at the party. Don't waste the time networking superficially by expanding your network of business contacts. Be inquisitive instead, and show respect for others around you. Look for similarities as well as differences. Find out more about your coworker who shares your passion for dogs, your colleague who is a Pilates ninja, or your teammate who keeps bees.

Keep the Energy Going

Just unwind and take in the atmosphere of the evening rather than placing unnecessary pressure on yourself to create the ideal evening. and look for long-term partnerships. If everyone has a great time, consider making the get-together a twice-yearly occasion or inviting them back for supper, coffee, or other get-togethers.

You're more likely to be in better physical, mental, and emotional health when you feel connected. Additionally, the company party can be the ideal chance for you to forge new connections and enhance current ones.