Yahoo Finance How to replace the office Christmas party
It’s clear that the 2020 festive period will not look the same as previous years for many people. Although coronavirus rules are set to be relaxed for a few days over Christmas so people can be with their families, social celebrations will be restricted - and there are unlikely to be any big parties and gatherings.
The office Christmas party is certainly going to be different. Instead of festive dinners in restaurants and pub drinks, employers will be finding alternative ways to celebrate.
Reminiscent of early lockdown zoom quizzes and online happy hours, many will opt for the safe option of keeping employees in their own homes. A survey of 1,000 UK office workers by the outsourced communications provider Moneypenny found that 26% said their companies are hosting a virtual party.
“Christmas is usually a time of cheer and celebration, and the perfect way for employers to incorporate this in the workplace is by organising a Christmas party for their staff,” says Kate Palmer, HR advice and consultancy director at Peninsula.
“However, things will have to be a little different this year due to the ongoing disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic. While the easiest, and cheapest, option for employers is to not go ahead with their annual festive plans, in the spirit of keeping Christmas alive some may choose to organise a remote party.”
So what are the other options for remote parties?
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A socially distanced meal
Restaurants and bars have had to quickly adapt to new measures to curb the spread of the virus. Although physical get-togethers may not be allowed, some employers are organising socially distanced meals for their staff.
An easier option which doesn’t require people to be online is to simply allocate money for each employee to order a takeaway and drinks. It may not seem like much, but these small gestures are likely to be appreciated.
Virtual cocktail making or cookery class
If you want employees to do something together, an online cocktail making or cookery class can be a good option. Make sure employees are given an allowance to spend on the right ingredients though, so they don’t have to fork out for the food or alcohol themselves.
Cookery classes can be booked through companies like Cookalong.tv and The Cocktail Service, which offer online classes delivered by professional chefs, bartenders and mixologists.
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Virtual party in a box
Some employers are trying out virtual Christmas party boxes. Companies like Evolve Events describe it as “a present containing everything you need for an engaging and enjoyable Christmas party” packed with a choice of virtual entertainment, party accessories and food and drink.
Things to bear in mind when organising a virtual party
The coronavirus pandemic has highlighted the need for employers to keep their employees’ wellbeing in mind, much more than ever before. This is why, even with something that can be considered a ‘treat’ for employees, people may not want to partake in a Christmas party this year.
“It is therefore advisable that remote parties should be optional and not constrained to a certain timeframe in which staff must be in attendance,” Palmer says.
Employers should also make sure those in attendance do not feel excluded from any activities during the party. “For example, if an employee does not drink alcohol and a virtual wine tasting activity makes up the bulk of the event, such a person would not be able to contribute to the fun and may therefore feel left out,” Palmer says.
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“Consequently, it may be better for employers to ensure that there is a wide range of activities available that cater to the individuals who are attending.”
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