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There is lots of pressure planning an office party. It should be a fun event, meant to relax and reward the staff. but things have changed and many companies have begun to shy away from office parties.  Don’t be silly!  You can still have a great office party!  Just follow a few simple guidelines.

Note: This section is for an office party. If you are looking for holiday party planning help visit our Corporate Holiday Party page.

People get nervous at office parties. Nervousness can equal erratic behavior so reduce the stress by setting some ground rules.  Make sure you answer the following questions:

• Will there be alcohol at the party and if so is it open bar or cash bar?
• Are spouses and dates invited?  This is particularly important if the party is off your property.
• How long will the festivities last?  Not everyone can get there at 5:30 so it’s nice to know people will still be there later in the evening.
• What’s the proper dress?  Not usually a big problem and not necessary in a majority of cases, but if you are hosting the party at a private club or a place no one has been to before a heads up about what to wear can save some people serious embarrassment..

Whether you plan to host a big bash or a small gathering try these suggestions:

• Be as generous as your budget allows. Your employees work hard and they are looking for a show of appreciation.  They view your generosity as a barometer of their performance.
• Try to go somewhere different.  If there is a tavern or restaurant close by your employees are probably there all the time.  Why not drive an extra 5 minutes and meet at someplace different. 
• If you have the party on premise make sure to decorate.  Telling them to meet in the cafeteria will excite no one.  Asking them to join you on the beach (the cafeteria decorated for luau) and they know it’s a special day.
• Invest in a bartender.  They’ll monitor and control drinking.  They also can make attractive and fun “virgin” drinks.  People like picking a non-alcoholic “cool” option.  Letting employees pour their own can be a problem and asking an employee to tend bar may be putting them in a bad spot.
• Have a theme for your party.  We mentioned luau because it’s always a hit but casino and Mardi Gras are also real favorites that can be planned for 10 or a 100. 

Sometimes there’s a reason for your party.  It might be a new product launch, a successful sales quarter or an awards banquet (or one of many more options).  So you might have speakers.  Make sure you manage this.  Speakers should know when they speak and how long they have.  Short and sweet is a good plan.  If you’re speaking make sure you spend time preparing your talk. Remember selling your employees is as important as selling your customers.

Think about providing some great party favors or even door prizes.  It’s nice to walk away with a remembrance of a great time.  Finally make sure you have fun.  If you’re a manager, mingle with your employees they’ll appreciate it and you’ll enjoy it.