Hosting an awards night is an effective way of motivating staff. It lets them know that you appreciate their hard work and it motivates them to work even harder. Organizing an awards dinner takes time, effort and planning. Below are tips that can help you in achieving a successful awards dinner.

#1. Budget

First of all, you need to find out on how much you are able to spend. Setting a budget helps to guide you on how much money to allocate to any particular task. If your company has a big budget, then you can have as many guests as you want, in the best venues with a fancy menu etc. Otherwise your event has to be low key. Remember to always stick to your budget no matter what.

#2. Location

After setting a budget, and settling on the number of guests who will be attending the awards dinner, decide where to hold the ceremony. The choice of the hall may depend on the style, budget and number of people you have set for your event. The style of dinner should match the venue. If it is a formal event, an elegant venue will be perfect. If it is an informal event, a casual and intimate venue will do. Remember to take out time to visit the hall to see if it meets all your requirements. Make sure the hall has a good lighting and sound system, adequate restroom facilities, and sufficient parking, Also, make a note of its location, and consider how easy or difficult it will be for your guests to find.

#3. Date

Most award nights are held towards the end of the year. However. Regardless of when it is, you will need to set it at a date and time that will be convenient for the staff. Make sure that it does not clash with any major holidays when most people prefer to be with their families and loved ones. Otherwise, employees will be faced with the decision to either come for the dinner or spend time with family.

#4. Menu

When deciding on the food for your event, you can either do it yourself or hire a caterer to do it for you. Doing it yourself can save money, but can also take time and a whole lot of energy especially if you have a huge guest list. Remember, you have to plan, buy, prepare and serve the food, and clean up, all of which the caterers will do. On the other hand, most caterers are not flexible as you get to pay for the number of people you booked for. Whether they show up or not.

#5. Awards

Remember that the award should complement the action being rewarded and the occasion. The type of award says a lot about the achievement. Giving just a simple certificate doesn’t show much value compared to  dazzling trophy awards or an iconic figurine. The award should be so attractive that it will be worth fighting for.

#6. Entertainment

Most companies would hire a comedian or a band for this purpose. Some even hire celebrities to call the names of the nominees and hand in the awards. Also, if the event goes on till late, there is usually an after party and so a DJ will be needed.

On the night of the awards dinner, be sure to arrive early and double check that everything is in place. With everything in place, you can now welcome your guests and reward the employees who have spent the year working hard to make your business a success.

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