Work Summer Parties in 2021 – Will They Still Go Ahead and Can This Benefit Employee Well-being?
The tradition of an annual Christmas event or party has long been upheld by many businesses to celebrate the success of the year and reward loyal employees for their contributions. But what about summer parties?
Perhaps a slightly newer trend, corporate parties in the summer months are a brilliant way to strengthen staff alliances and step away from the office for an informal evening to reward employees. Move away from a mundane routine and soak in some sunshine this summer with an office summer party or alternative. Boost morale with something to look forward to and enjoy some much-needed team bonding. Encouraging friendships within the workforce can have a huge impact on employee engagement. A study into co-worker friendships indicates that only 28% of employees with no friends at work are engaged within their role. This is compared to 69% of employees who have 25 or more friends at work1.
Organisational psychology indicates a strong correlation between the number of friends an employee has at work with their engagement in their job role. By allowing employees to socialise in an informal setting, you can give them the chance to let their hair down and connect with their colleagues outside of an office setting. Share these experiences via social media and promote the company ethos and benefits to future employees.
The Benefits of Corporate Events for Employee Well-Being
After a difficult year, businesses and employees alike have faced many challenges. Employee well-being has become an even more important aspect to consider in the attempt to manage work-life stress. A study by MetLife found that 2 in 3 employees feel more stressed than before the COVID-19 pandemic2. With a focus on well-being, it is important to alleviate the feeling of stress in a work environment and provide employees with an incentive to remain loyal and productive. According to the 2019 Staples Workplace Survey, 41% of employees would take a 10% pay cut for a company that cared about their wellness3. It is important to promote success and encourage an engaged and motivated workforce with employee benefits and programs.
Rewards and Corporate Summer Events in 2021
Since 17th May, lockdown restrictions have lifted, causing England to enter Step Three of the government's roadmap. According to an article from the BBC, pubs and restaurants can now serve customers in their indoor spaces and groups of six people or two households can now mix indoors with overnight stays allowed. Meanwhile, people can meet in groups of up to 30 outdoors and museums, theatres, cinemas, hotels, hostels and B&BS can open4.
What does this mean for businesses? Will there be a work summer party in 2021? There are many different options, from outdoor team building events to virtual fun and activities and experiences to look forward to. Treat your employees and show appreciation for all their hard work over the last year. If a summer party is not on the cards, give them the gift of a little red box filled with memorable gift experiences from Red Letter Days. Discover our range of incredible products to reward employees with. They can enjoy a selection of magical experiences that offer freedom and flexibility. As the world reopens, there are plenty of safe and exciting possibilities for them to enjoy.
Keep Safe and Look Forward to the Future
At such an unprecedented time, it is important to proceed with caution and stay safe. Keep up to date with the government guidelines as the various stages of developments unfold over the coming months. We at Red Letter Days provide a Make Memories Guarantee, allowing your employees to plan their future and enjoy unmissable experiences at a time that suits them. Benefit from easy extensions, free exchanges and more. Reward employees with confidence and give them the perfect alternative to a summer event with the gift of quality time spent with friends and loved ones.
2. MetLife, 2020
3. Staples, 2019
4. BBC, 2021