When planning an office party you can typically expect things such as food and
entertainment to be a part of the event. For many offices, such as ours, there
is always and expectation for an office party game or two to be included as
well. I’m a game person and love just about any game, but, let’s face it, some
people just aren’t game people. It is hard to find an office party game that
will make everyone happy, but there are some simple games that seem to work across
the board.
The office party game that shows up every year at hour Holiday party is the
dirty Santa gift exchange. We all bring a $10-$15 gift and put it on a table.
After picking numbers we go in numerical order to choose a gift. When it is
your turn, you can either steal someone else’s gift or choose a new gift. We
also put a limit of 3 steals per each gift so that the game moves quickly. One
year, we did the gifts as gift certificates and another year we brought gifts
of relaxation or rejuvenation. Since this office party game doesn’t require a
lot of skill, nobody is ever left out.
It is also a good idea to make your office party game optional, that way you
don’t have any Scrooges ruining the fun for other people. Most people will
participate anyway but if they don’t, they can keep the “Bah Humbugs” to
themselves. Another favorite office party game of ours involves a word game
where everyone gets a necklace and you ban certain words during the party. If
you hear somebody saying one of the words, you can steal their beads. Examples
of words include “baby” at a baby shower or “presents” at a Holiday party.
Keep in mind the dynamics of your office when choosing an office party game.
You typically know what your co-workers like and don’t like and can guess what
games would work for them. In the end, you just want a simple, easy to follow
game that is fun for all who participate.
Christmas Office Party Game Tip #1
When planning your Christmas Office Party games, make sure to keep in mind the following questions:
* What is your goal in playing games at the party? Icebreaker? Entertainment? Awarding of Prizes?
* What is the personality and age mix of those attending the party?
* What is the 'feel' of the party? Casual? Dressy? The 'atmosphere' desired will dictate the type of games to be played.
* What is the size of the party? Certain games are more successful depending on the number in attendance.
* What is the size and layout of the party location? Some party games work better depending on the venue. |
Christmas Office Party Game Tip #2
Remember to make sure everyone is included in the games and see how the party livens up. |
Christmas Office Party Game Tip #3
Christmas Office Party Games don't have to be complex to be fun, in fact, the simpler the game, the better most guests seem to like them, and the less work they are for you! |
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