DON’T make the event into a company information session
DO provide your employees the chance to enjoy themselves and escape from work for an hour or for part of day
DON’T just “make an appearance” at the event
DO get involved and commit to making the event a success
DON’T just say, “Everyone’s done a great job this year”
DO make it personal. Your employees know if you’re just going through the motions
DON’T forget that sometimes great work is done behind the scenes
DO ask your staff to tell you about great work being done by employees throughout the company
DON’T make it about what’s best for you
DO remember that this celebration is for and about your staff
DON’T wait until the last minute
DO plan ahead and make the event as carefree for your staff as possible
DON’T consider this the only time you should say thank you
DO thank your employees regularly throughout the year
DON’T assume that everyone feels appreciated
DO use an electronic suggestion box to encourage employees to share ideas and feedback.