To Party Or Not To Party? What A Question!

Any business that has withstood the global crisis has reason to be proud of itself. Initial panic has been replaced by the South African spirit of not giving up and the attitude now is “Don't worry, the world's not going to end today… Because it's already tomorrow in New Zealand.”

Year-end brings an opportunity to celebrate that resilience. But it's important to share the good feelings with staff and customers. Releasing the pressure valve and making your support team feel appreciated is much more effective than spending money on a rear-seat sound system for your new company car. Even if you are the Communications Minister. In which case you might want to consider which message you are communicating.

Parties, awards dinners and golf days aren't necessarily extravagant. They're an essential part of maintaining and growing valuable networks. But be warned, there's no truth serum that like a couple of Long Island Teas in the sun between people who've been forced to work in close proximity for a whole year. If you've been “bedding the rules” and then brag about your indiscretions, it isn't a tragic lapse of judgement; it's a funny way of handing in your resignation.

So it's wise to take precautions in such tricky times. Suicidally depressed pandas would get off their butts to ensure their survival under the same circumstances, but otherwise intelligent, hard-working professionals keep blaming stress, traffic, and a rare form of marriage-vow Alzheimer's for the debris field where their careers once stood. There's a much safer and more entertaining way to put together a memorable year-end function…

Hire me.

• A comedian can create an energised, fun atmosphere, but should maintain respect for your company, product and clients.
• Choose someone who delivers the laughs while providing professional start-to-finish service levels that allow you to relax and enjoy your event.
• Choose a comic who takes the time to meet you personally beforehand and construct a show that suits your unique needs.
• Comedy is my passion, not a sideline appearance. Your special occasion deserves a dedicated performer.

So let's have a party. It's uplifting and you deserve it. A celebration can have real, measurable benefits and give you lasting positive returns. I recommend positive comedy in the spirit of “We're all going to win together.”

And we can. We just can't all do it together in one car. There's not enough space. Not even in a million rand BMW.