Creating an inclusive team social event (that doesn't centre around booze!)

Creating an inclusive team social event is essential for fostering a sense of belonging and ensuring that all team members feel comfortable and valued. However, research shows that many team social events don’t always achieve this, as businesses are being urged to limit the amount of alcohol served at work socials.

The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) recently surveyed more than 1,000 managers. Among the key findings were:

• One in three managers (29%) report that they have witnessed inappropriate behaviour or harassment at work parties.
• Overall, two in five (42%) said work parties should be organised around activities that don't involve alcohol. Younger people, aged between 16 and 34, were most likely to say this.

Organising a team social event where everyone has a great time may seem like a simple task on the surface, but there’s more to consider than first meets the eye.

Discover our top tips for creating an inclusive, warm and welcoming team social event.

Set objectives

Yes, we know we sound like we’re planning a marketing strategy here, but objectives are just as important when planning a team social event! Determine the purpose and goals: are you celebrating a milestone, encouraging team bonding, or simply providing an opportunity for fun? Identifying your objectives will guide your planning process and help ensure inclusivity.

Develop a social committee

Rather than team social events being decided by the management team, we encourage employers to create a ‘social committee’ with representatives from a diverse range of people of all levels in the business. This also empowers your team to make decisions to support their colleagues.

Keep the drinks for afterwards

Don’t worry — we’re not saying that alcohol should be completely off the cards! Having a bit of booze to let your hair down may be the ideal of a perfect team social for some. But a top tip is to allocate time for this at the end of the event, rather than it being intrinsic to the event.

Consider everyone's needs

Choose an accessible location and/or venue. Consider factors such as wheelchair accessibility, proximity to public transportation, and availability of parking.

It’s also important to consider dietary restrictions and preferences of the team. It’s best practice to offer a variety of food options, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free choices. Clearly label the dishes to help individuals make informed choices.

You must be sensitive to the diverse backgrounds of your team and consider incorporating celebrations or traditions from various cultures.

Gain feedback

In the days following the event, ask for feedback from the team about what their experience was and gather suggestions for improvements. Learn from the experience to continually evolve the planning process for your next events.

Inclusive Examples

We chatted to our team to understand what they appreciate most about team socials at Leopard Co:

“Leopard Co socials are something I always look forward to! The social committee do a brilliant job of coming up with new, fun experiences every time, which are always a surprise to the rest of the team.

“A great thing about the socials is the team always plans them within our working hours, to allow everyone to attend — particularly those who have a long commute into the office and a family to take care of. There’s always the option to continue the fun afterwards for anyone who wants to!

“The activities are always something to do as a team, allowing you to socialise with team members you don’t always interact with daily in the office, which is always good!” — Karlie

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“I’d never done a team social event before joining Leopard, so I wasn’t sure what to expect at the Easter social event. Team building was not something they did at my last job, so I was a bit nervous. But I found I really enjoyed myself. It was a great opportunity to spend time with the team outside the office and just have fun. One of the things that makes the Leopard socials so good is they cater for everyone so you’re never feeling left out at any point. I can’t wait for the next social to see what the team have in store for us.” — Stephanie

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“Since joining the agency two years ago, I’ve had the pleasure of attending various socials including a ‘team and treat day’ where we relaxed over meditation and massages and a ‘spring bake off’ where we baked cakes in teams, which have all been extremely fun. Because we are all spread over the region, with some in Leicester and others in Shrewsbury, Leopard has always catered to everyone’s needs by keeping the socials within the city, which is where our HQ is based. Not only does this make it easier for the whole team, but it ensures everyone can attend as we all travel into the city three days a week.” — Rachel C

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If you're looking to enhance your internal communications and change your office culture, get in touch to see how Leopard Co can support your business.