Off-site parties most popular type of event
Many (93 per cent of) senior managers said their company will be hosting year-end festivities in 2018, with off-site (58 per cent) and on-site parties (42 per cent) and office decorations (39 per cent) the most common plans.
Other initiatives include charitable activity (27 per cent) and informal gift exchanges (26 per cent), found a survey by OfficeTeam, a Robert Half company.
"Holiday events are a perfect opportunity for organizations to recognize their employees' accomplishments throughout the year and give them something to look forward to," said Koula Vasilopoulos, district president for OfficeTeam.
"Celebrations don't need to be extravagant or elaborate to get workers in the festive spirit. Events that include a charitable focus and involve staff in the planning process can be meaningful and inspire team camaraderie."
One-quarter (25 per cent) of organizations are planning to spend more this year, while only 10 per cent expect to cut costs, according to the survey of more than 600 senior managers and 500 workers.
And 67 per cent of managers indicated there's an unwritten rule employees are expected to make an appearance at the events.
However, many professionals aren't in the holiday giving spirit: Nearly three-quarters (73 per cent) forego year-end presents in the office.
Of the 27 per cent who do offer presents, 21 per cent give them to colleagues, and 14 per cent give one to their boss. The majority of those who give out holiday presents (75 per cent) do so because they want to, not because they feel obligated.
