How the Delta Variant Is Impacting Company Events

With COVID case numbers increasing due to the Delta variant, we've noticed some trends amongst our clients. We know there's a lot of uncertainty and that you may be trying to suss out what's happening so that you can make the best decisions for your own company. Here's what we're seeing in the market.

1. Companies are slowing down or reversing their back-to-office planning and implementation.

Many companies had begun planning for getting back to the office by early September. While the desire to get back to the office is strong, many of them have paused their plans due to the Delta variant spikes.

Many have told us that they're frustrated about keeping up with the latest COVID news while trying to do the responsible thing for the health and wellbeing of their business, employees, and society at-large. They also note that it's tricky to navigate the complexities of individuals' vaccination status, HIPAA requirements, and implementation/enforcement of policies. So, rather than get into all that complexity, they're just going to hang tight and stay working remotely a little longer. 

2. Some companies are mandating their employees get vaccinated before returning to the office or participating in events.

Some real heavy hitters have mandated that employees prove they've been vaccinated before returning to the office, including:

• BlackRock
• Cisco
• Equinox
• Facebook
• Ford
• Google
• Lyft
• Uber
• Walt Disney Company
• Walmart

And the announcements just keep on coming. Just yesterday, New York City just announced that it will require individuals be vaccinated before partaking in indoor dining or going to the gym. As this trend continues, it may provide some air cover for other companies to do the same. 

3. Virtual events remain a primary event option for many companies.

For some, it's the uncertainty around COVID. For some, it's a desire to not rock the boat or mandate their staff be vaccinated. For some, it's that working remotely—or some hybrid model—is a permanent way of doing business. Those companies understand that they can't just hold off on team-building events indefinitely. The show must go on! They have to adapt to the new model.

These companies understand that fostering a positive, productive culture means building stronger relationships among colleagues, which can be done just as well via virtual events. What's important is that these virtual events are designed to build connections, strengthen relationships, and promote FUN.

Need help planning your company event? Want a trusted partner that will help you decide what's best for your team? We can help! Just reach out.