We keep reading how the world economy is about to go through a recession but does that mean companies should not have a Christmas party just to save on costs? Most employees don’t receive an end-of-year bonus and most people are overworked.  According to Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development's (CIPD) Annual Reward Management Survey 2008, 40% of UK employers are not having a Christmas party. The industries that are most effected are private sector, manufacturing and production, states the CIPD. Having no employer engagement could have long term damaging impact on employee and organisational performance.

A Christmas bash does not have to be an over-the top elaborate party. Giving your employees something shows them that employer appreciates their hard work. A few drinks and a few hours off are probably the least employers can offer. It gives work colleagues the opportunity for fellow employees who may or may not know each other the opportunity to socialise outside of their work roles.

Throwing an end-of-year bash should never fall onto one person. The more you get employees involved in planning and choosing which type of event will result in more people having a good time.

Here are some tips for putting together an event that works for everyone:

Get out of the office.
1.    Nobody wants to stand around the copier machine drinking from plastic cups. For small companies you could take the whole office out for dinner. For larger companies you can hire a venue. Booking early and booking in November will save in costs.

Think Creatively
2.    If you are thinking about having drinks and nibbles at a bar you are not offering anything special. Think about breaking the event into a couple of pieces like an activity followed by drinks of lunch. Here at turboRECRUIT we are going to leave work early-around 3pm, have a scavenger hunt and follow it up with a dinner. There are other options such as lawn balls and lunch, cooking class, boat around the harbour and tickets for Luna Park.

Give Back to the Community
3.    Your company can donate to a charity or fundraiser by volunteering your time. You can collect toys or canned food-it’s all about remembering people in need and how to contribute.

Finishing off the year through rewarding employees gives the staff a well-deserved break. A poorly planned event will be forgotten quickly and even breed resentment. A fun and friendly event isn’t too hard to organise, be appreciated by everyone, and employers can reap in the benefits long after the party is over.