Which factors in the party affect employees’ satisfaction

As the year-end approaches, many companies and organizations recognize the importance of celebrating various holidays, whether it's Christmas or the year-end send-off for employees. Organizational leaders and HR departments believe that hosting festive parties within the company helps boost employees' morale and, consequently, their work performance. This article discusses research that highlights the various factors within these parties that promote satisfaction, enjoyment, and what to avoid.

Past research has shown that workplace enjoyment impacts employee engagement and reduces the likelihood of staff turnover. Therefore, organizing internal festive events within a company is considered part of fostering an enjoyable workplace culture. Companies should employ strategies when organizing these events to generate positive feelings among employees while minimizing negative impacts.

Research published in the journal Scientific Reports by Hannes Zacher in 2566 (Buddhist era, equivalent to 2023 CE) examined factors related to satisfaction, positive and negative feelings, regarding company festive events. These factors were categorized into three major components: Employee-related, Organizational-related, and Event-related.

1. Employee-related factors found that:

- Employee age influences their positive feelings towards parties. Younger employees tend to be more excited and less likely to feel bored or indifferent at these events.

- Feeling a part of the organization generates excitement among employees.

- Employees' involvement in organizing events leads to heightened excitement.

2. Organizational-related factors revealed that:

- Companies emphasizing employee relationships generate more satisfaction and excitement at events, with employees feeling less bored.

- Companies focusing on competition and results tend to create a relaxed atmosphere at parties.

3. Event-related factors that contribute to positive feelings, satisfaction, relaxation, and excitement include:

- Holding events offsite rather than within the company premises.

- Incorporating activities such as games or karaoke.

- Offering various beverage options, including alcoholic drinks.

- Theming events to align with the company's identity or culture.

4. Negative event-related factors leading to feelings of boredom or discomfort include:

- Excessive formality.

- Overconsumption of alcoholic beverages.

- Inappropriate behavior from supervisors or colleagues.

With this information, organizations can tailor their approaches to create year-end celebrations that bring happiness to employees, consequently contributing to a more motivated and successful organizational environment.

Reference

Zacher, H. (2023). The company Christmas party and employee happiness. Scientific reports, 13(1), 337.