With just over two months before Christmas 2020, many companies back in business are considering what to do about office parties.
Being a tumultuous year that has seen many organisations downsizing during the ongoing pandemic, limited budgets and social distancing protocols to be followed, the general office conviviality will take a big knock.
However, this doesn’t mean that office parties need to be canned altogether.
They are an important way to show staff appreciation and give everyone a chance to relax a little – so here is a look at how to host an office party in the time of Covid-19.
Day at the beach
Now that the beaches have finally reopened and the weather warming up, this has become a great venue for end-of-year get-togethers.
With outdoor venues the safest in terms of limiting any viral spread, a beachside party (no alcohol of course) will allow for bigger numbers (spouses and families), as well as an opportunity for team-building sport and games.
It doesn’t need to be an extravagant affair, but just spending some time outdoors with colleagues and friends is really appreciated these days.
Picnic in a game reserve
Another outdoor option is simply arranging a picnic in a nearby park, nature reserve or even game reserve. If party-goers are willing, there can be a short hike or – if budgets allow – a game drive, before enjoying some snacks and drinks in the great outdoors.
Care package and virtual party
Offices that have high-risk employees, or that don’t want to take any chances during the pandemic, might want to opt for an online affair.
While not necessarily as convivial as a real-life party, this is still a great way to engage with colleagues in a more relaxed environment.
To make this something special, companies can organise a care package, either food or selected pamper products, which can be sent to employees’ homes or collected after work. Another take on this is to get the various departments together for the virtual party, so there is some real-life interaction. Numbers are restricted and everyone is involved.
Virtual cheese and wine
Another take on the virtual party is an online cheese and wine tasting. This will require the company to arrange a package ahead of time, but it is a budget-friendly option that still treats the staff to something special.
Online party quiz
If you’re looking for an idea that will combine team-building with social distancing and fun, then you might want to try one of the online quiz apps.
You’ll have to elect a quiz master, and you can make it even more personal by getting a few people to submit some quiz questions of their own.
This is a great way to get to know everyone a bit better in a relaxed environment.
Current regulations obviously do allow for indoor functions as well, but wherever possible, outdoor parties are definitely the safest option, and might make employees feel more at ease. If there was ever a time to celebrate the end of the year – 2020 is it!
