Save our office parties

I saw a rather sad news item on the news last week. It is summarised below.


http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8326009.stm

Basically 1 in 5 businesses report they are cancelling the annual office party for their employees. What this is going to do for morale, one can only guess.
One of my friends is in marketing at a major retail company. She has been told her departmental jolly - which normally has a budget of £40K for 200 people is being scrapped this year. Apparently, her bosses are still having their jolly. I suggested she asks if in-house catering could be arranged and a donation of 1/2 bottle of wine per guest. At least there would be some recognition for employees and their hard work.

It is so important to reward people; to recognise the work they are doing, and by cancelling this 'treat' - which might be the only treat staff are given, causes resentment and anger. Management need everyone on their side at this difficult time. Even if it means going down to the local pub and a round of drinks being bought, or a bottle of wine being opened in the office with a bowl of crisps - it is recognition of your team.

So please business owners - and I count myself in this category: don't cancel the party!