If this is your first time to be assigned the company business party, here are some valuable tips you will be thankful you’ve read once the party’s underway.
First of all, know how many people are invited and add 5% to that number when booking a venue. It’s better to have a full buffet table rather than run out of food in the middle of the event. You can always find someone willing to bring home the leftover food, if any.
Second, get a budget form your boss. If possible, get it in writing so there are no regrets after. Some supervisors or officers prefer not to be bothered by the details, and then get back at you for overspending. You need the budget to be in writing to protect your job. If your boss is a hands-on person, then consider yourself lucky because he will be there to make all the decisions. All you have to do is execute them for him.
Third, when you’re looking for the venue, make sure it fits the occasion. A company business party could be celebratory or the last hurrah for the company. Ask about the purpose of the party and then look for venues. It’s also important that the location of the venue makes sense. It should be easily accessible with taxis and even buses if there are out-of-town guests. You should also get a map that you can reproduce and distribute to the different department heads.
Fourth, even if it is a business party, ask if entertainment is needed. If the company does not want any, then request for an agenda so you can make sure the equipment is available. For example, will there be a need for an audio – microphone and speakers? Will there be a presentation? Will a big screen be required?
Fifth, it would be a good idea to get any food allergies or religious belief that would prohibit certain food items from being consumed. At least this way, you’re prepared with alternate choices for these guests so they won’t be offended that there is nothing good for them to eat.
Finally, talk about alcoholic drinks and whether there will be an open bar or not. You also have to make plans in case anyone gets drunks and wild. What will you do? This is a tricky problem but you can recruit the help of waiters and tell them what to do.