One of the biggest sources of stress when planning any sized social event for your hospital is the expectation of perfection. I’ve been there. Any party has many moving parts and if one of those parts doesn’t come together, it feels like a failure. Reframe your expectations going into this event. Make the plans, do the research, gather information. But if something happens to throw a wrench into things – focus on your goal.

1. Get your team “together” to spend leisure time outside of the clinic.

2. Provide them with an atmosphere to blow off steam and have fun. As long as you are meeting those two expectations, the rest are just details. Relax, take a deep breath, your efforts are not in vain. Don’t forget to have fun!

Social Gathering Etiquette:

Even though the social gatherings at <insert clinic name> are off the clock and considered voluntary, we have put together guidelines for conduct to keep in mind.

1. Alcohol Consumption: Some company events may serve one or two beer or wine beverages to employees, while others will be alcohol-free events. In either case, the expectation is that employees refrain from intoxication, which may affect your behavior in a negative manner. Your safety is our first concern.

2. Be inclusive: It can be easy to gravitate toward your best clinic buddies, but we encourage the use of this time to get to know some of the team members who you don’t have much interaction with.

3. Participate: Our leadership team works hard to put together fun gatherings. We request that you are engaged.

4. Be respectful: Be it a restaurant gathering or at someone’s house, leave the area better than when you arrived.

5. Have fun!