Whether it’s a party or a workshop, an offsite company event is an opportunity for sincere connection. A well-planned work event can forge lasting connections, inspire collaboration, and show your team how valued they are.
Offsite settings provide a chance to emphasize the value of each person’s contribution. And acknowledging specific recent accomplishments is integral to building a culture of recognition. By cultivating a sense of pride and satisfaction in the work you do together, people are more likely to stay motivated and excited about the project.
There is so much potential in an office gathering done right. With the Holidays coming up and a new year on the horizon, now is a great time to invest in an event for your team.
Three tips for planning an impactful work event
Planning an event for your business, team, or network is all about intention. These steps will help set you up for a meaningful, memorable event.
Identify the value
You won’t invest in something you don’t value. So what good is an event you don't believe in?
Throwing together a last-minute party will not carry the same potential as a party that is driven by value and intention. Understanding the value that an event will provide will help you invest in the planning, and inspire your team to make the most of the event.
A meaningful work event is one that people will walk away from feeling fulfilled, inspired, or motivated. Are you hoping to foster a stronger sense of collaboration? Do you want your team to feel seen and appreciated? Are you introducing new members to an established network? All of these goals have immense value.
Set the stage for genuine connection
People value connection, and professional settings can be a great place to find meaningful relationships. Research shows that having friends at work can boost productivity, increase job satisfaction, and improve business overall.
Think about the event space you choose and how it will affect your gathering. A relaxed, open space is better for networking and mingling. Look for places where people can have both intimate one-on-one conversations, and engage in group discussions.
A Holiday office party or offsite work event is an opportunity to bring people together. And how you interact with the event will help set the stage for relationship building. Leaders should demonstrate the value of social activity by being available to connect themselves. Show your genuine interest in others through active listening and curiosity. Ask questions to get to know people beyond their roles. Encourage conversations across groups by introducing people from different teams.
Align the event with your company culture
An event is like an extension of your business, so it should be consistent with your vision and values. As you build out the content and setting of your event, make sure your choices reflect your company culture.
If you plan to have a speaker, or give a speech yourself, the message should resonate not only with your event goals, but with your long-term professional goals. Use these opportunities to give your attendees more clarity on your mission.
Try to put intentionality behind each practical decision, too. Everything you choose—from venue to caterers to speakers—is an opportunity to reflect your values and culture. Are you working on making your business more eco-conscious? Look for a sustainable event space that can support that value. Do you want to be more community-minded? Find a locally owned venue that can connect you with local caterers, or position your event in a walkable neighborhood setting.
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