How to Throw a Successful Virtual Holiday Party

Holiday parties are important parts of an organization’s culture, and with year-end rapidly approaching, many managers are wondering how to offer similar teambuilding experiences in virtual spaces. Carol Cochran, vice president of people and culture at FlexJobs, a career site for remote workers that has had a fully remote staff for nearly 14 years, says there are lessons managers who might be new to leading remote teams can apply. First, she says, keep it simple. Your event doesn’t need to match up to parities you’ve held in the past. Cochran points to a recent Monster survey that says while 59 percent of workers say they would appreciate a virtual holiday party, 74 percent are OK with it taking place on an informal holiday call. “Keep it simple,” Cochran says. “Especially this year, people really just want to connect with one another.” She also suggests using the moment to offer recognition to team members, even if it’s through a gift card or a small note of appreciation. Expressing gratitude— regardless of venue—will go a long way. “Make sure managers are connecting with each person to talk about their specific contributions and to acknowledge their own experience of this year,” Cochran says. “Hopefully, leaders have been practicing this throughout the year—more frequent check-ins and an understanding of any unique challenges a person may be experiencing.”