Riskex Reflections on a Friday #25: Help your employees banish the winter blues: ten great ideas for work social events
Struggling to shake off the winter blues? It’s no secret January is the most depressing month of the year, with many noticing a decline in mood and mental health. So why not introduce some joy back in to the month? Here are some ideas for work social events:
Large group, active events:
- Company Olympics: Organise a series of fun and silly games that can be played by people of all fitness levels. Think sack races, water balloon toss, and three-legged races. Award prizes for the winners and the best team spirit.
- Volunteer day: Give back to your community by volunteering together at a local organisation. This is a great way to team build and make a positive impact.
- Scavenger hunt: Create a scavenger hunt that takes employees around the city or town, solving clues and completing challenges. This is a great way to get people to explore their surroundings and work together as a team.
Small group, active events:
- Escape room: Challenge your team to escape from a themed room by working together to solve puzzles and riddles. This is a great way to test communication and problem-solving skills.
- Games night:Host a game night at the office or a local bar. Board games, card games, and video games are all fair game. This is a great way to relax and have fun with your colleagues in a casual setting.
- Cooking class: Learn how to make a new dish together as a team. This is a great way to bond over food and learn a new skill.
Large group, low-key events:
- Company picnic: Have a picnic in the park or at the beach. This is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get to know your colleagues outside of the office.
- Movie night: Turn the office into a cinema with a projector and screen (and popcorn of course!). This is a great way to relax and have some fun after work.
Small group, low-key events:
- Murder mystery dinner:Channel your inner detective with a murder mystery dinner. This is a fun and interactive activity that everyone will enjoy.
- Museum or art gallery visit: Visit a local museum or art gallery. This is a great way to get some culture and learn something new.
- Potluck lunch:This is a budget-friendly option that allows everyone to share their favourite dishes. It’s a great way to try new foods and learn more about your colleagues’ cultures.
No matter what kind of event you choose, the most important thing is to make sure it is something that your employees will enjoy. Consider your employees’ interests and preferences when choosing an activity – form a “social committee” to involve them in deciding what when and how.. And most importantly, have fun!