How to Boost Attendance at Office Gatherings 

Office gatherings are a great way to strengthen team relationships, improve morale, and create a positive workplace culture. However, getting people to actually show up can sometimes be a challenge. Busy schedules, remote working, and a lack of excitement can all impact attendance. The good news is that with the right approach, you can significantly increase turnout and engagement at your office events.

Below are some practical and effective ways to boost attendance at your next office gathering.

Understand What Your Team Wants

The first step to increasing attendance is understanding your team’s preferences. Not everyone is excited by the same type of event. Some may enjoy relaxed social evenings, while others prefer structured activities or daytime gatherings. Send out short surveys or ask for informal feedback to find out what people enjoy most. When employees feel that their opinions are valued and reflected in event planning, they are much more likely to attend.

Make the Event Feel Worthwhile

People are more inclined to attend if they feel the event offers real value. This could be an opportunity to unwind, network with colleagues, or enjoy something different from the usual workday routine. Consider scheduling gatherings during work hours or immediately after work to make them more accessible. Providing food, refreshments, or small incentives can also help make attendance feel worthwhile rather than an obligation.

Use Games to Create Excitement

According to game pros such as Expoplay.co.uk, games are one of the most effective ways to boost attendance at office gatherings. They add an element of fun and remove the awkwardness that can sometimes come with social events. Interactive games such as quiz nights, team challenges, or mini tournaments encourage participation and friendly competition. You could also introduce classic arcade-style games, table football, or giant board games to appeal to a wide range of personalities. When games are included, employees are more likely to see the gathering as enjoyable rather than formal, making them far more willing to attend.

Promote the Event Creatively

How you promote your office gathering plays a huge role in attendance. Instead of sending a generic calendar invite, build excitement in advance. Use eye-catching posters, internal newsletters, or group chats to highlight what makes the event special. Tease the games, prizes, or activities planned, and clearly communicate why the event will be fun and beneficial. The more excitement you generate beforehand, the higher the turnout is likely to be.

Encourage Team Involvement

People are more likely to attend events they have helped shape. Encourage teams or individuals to get involved in planning activities or choosing games. You could ask departments to host their own game stations or challenges, creating a sense of ownership and pride. Team-led games also promote collaboration and give everyone a reason to show up and support their colleagues.

Create a Relaxed and Inclusive Atmosphere

An inclusive environment is key to boosting attendance. Make sure your gathering caters to a range of personalities, abilities, and comfort levels. Not everyone wants loud music or competitive games, so offering a mix of relaxed and energetic activities is important. Simple icebreaker games, casual seating areas, and optional participation ensure everyone feels welcome, which increases the likelihood of repeat attendance.

Review and Improve for Future Events

After the event, take time to review what worked well and what didn’t. Gather feedback on the games, timing, and overall experience. Use this information to improve future gatherings and show employees that their feedback genuinely matters.