Another year is almost coming to an end, and this is the time when companies begin planning celebrations to show their staff they appreciate all their work throughout the year.

It is a good idea to recognize both individuals and organizational accomplishments when planning a celebration to acknowledge the efforts of those who helped make the year successful.  This is a perfect way to reinforce why the staff does what they do and sets the stage for a productive and increased employee satisfaction for the coming year.

So, how do you do this when planning your end-of-year celebration?

It will depend on your company’s culture, but here are some tips that could help get you started.

Timing Can Make It or Break It

Remember it is a busy time for everyone at the end of the year, so planning well in advance is best. This will help ensure more of the staff is able to attend and that the celebration is planned and sincere – versus as a check-off the list, must-do event.

If you do find yourself running behind with no plans set, then consider hosting the celebration in January.   It would allow more time to properly plan and possibly work better for schedules, instead of competing with multiple holiday gatherings. 

Family-Friendly

If you promote that you are a family-friendly business, then this is a time to prove it.  Welcoming families to your celebration can be pivotal for some staff and help unite their loyalty that you are all ‘one big happy family’.   

Since families sacrifice in the homefront when staff have to work long hours, or manage through leadership changes that could affect paychecks – this is a good opportunity to recognize them as well. 

If costs are a concern (due to too many guests), then consider a simple affair that may include a potluck.  Creating a casual celebration with families may be a better fit as a positive over a fancy affair for just staff.  You know your company culture, so match what works best for your environment.

Immersive Activities

We are in the age of looking to capture experiences, so instead of a traditional celebration – consider a unique experience that staff look forward to doing as a perk at the end of the year.

For instance, host a private chocolate factory tour that staff gets to see, taste and create their own chocolate bar – and Include chocolate awards for your top-performers.  You could rent a move theater for your staff - including popcorn, snacks and drinks - and use their screen to highlight the year’s individuals and top events – followed by a new movie screening.  

Perhaps an interactive murder mystery dinner is more your company style, or organizing a skeeball tournament (instead of bowling) for a faster pace competition.  

Find what works with your company culture.  Whether it is hosting in your office a specialty coffee & tea masterclass or hiring a wine & beer sommelier to pair holiday goodies, no matter the activity – offering an unexpected celebration can be a fun and refreshing way to recognize end-of-year accomplishments.

 

Remember no matter how you celebrate…when planning your year-end celebration it is about recognizing and appreciating your team, and reflecting upon all the contributions, sacrifices and efforts that helped drive the business forward. 

Effective employee recognition can result in increased morale, retention and productivity which it needed when preparing for the next year.