You'd think that planning a picnic would be a breeze, but that's not the case when it's a question of a company gala. A corporate event, even a fun outing like a picnic, is always a major affair, one that requires a great deal of planning, attention to detail and excellent management and people skills. The level of difficulty varies according to the number of factors involved – the size of the company, if family and significant others are invited, if special catering efforts are needed, if particular venues are chosen, and the like. Read on for a few pointers in planning the perfect corporate picnic:
- Time is of the Essence: Start planning much before the actual event. It may be just a picnic but that’s no reason to be lackadaisical about the details. Book your venue well in advance and send out invitations early so that people have time to plan their schedules and set aside time for this affair. You want the maximum number of employees and their families to show up for your picnic to be considered a rip-roaring success. Decide if a weekday or a weekend is suitable based on company policy and the existing state of affairs.
- Backup Plans Matter: Picnics are often outdoor affairs, which means that the possibility of rain hangs over your head like a storm cloud waiting to burst. While most of us plan the venue, food and activities right down to the last detail, we forget the need for adequate backup plans in the event of a contingency. Rain can play spoilsport, so even if you’re not expecting any, make sure you plan for a thundershower.
- Food is Everything: Well, not always, but at a picnic, it sure is. Whether you’re planning simple fare or a sumptuous affair, make sure you take into account that your workplace is a multi-cultural, multi-religious environment where there are people of different races and religions. Many religions disallow the consumption of certain meats, so ensure that you have a certain amount of variety and choice when it comes to food options.
- Relationships are Important: Planning activities for the entire family? Make sure you involve those who are single, widowed and divorced too. It’s important that no one feels left out, more so when it’s a feel-good event like a picnic.
- After the Party Activities: It’s important to clean up after yourselves, especially if you’re in a public place like a park or a beach. Get the whole lot to pitch in or if that’s not a possibility, arrange for a cleanup crew to take care of the place once everyone’s left the venue. Encourage your employees to use garbage cans and to avoid littering. Leave the place as you found it.
This Article was contributed by Kelly Kilpatrick, who writes on the subject of the best online dating service. She invites your feedback at kellykilpatrick24 at gmail dot com.