How to Mingle for a Casual Work Party

Networking at work parties is crucial to your success.

Even the most shy employee needs to learn how to mingle for a casual work party, so that key networking opportunities are not missed. Remember, socializing at work parties is not primarily a chance to catch up with your cubicle buddies while the company foots the drink tab. It is a golden opportunity to rub shoulders with executives or visionaries that you do not have access to during the course of a typical work week. So do some prep work, take a deep breath, and get ready to schmooze it up at your next casual work party.

Instructions

1. Write down three generic, open-ended questions that you can use at your work party to start conversations. Include both work and non-work related queries. "What does your specific role in the company look like?" or, "What sorts of things do you do for fun outside the office?" are two examples of questions that can get virtually anyone talking.

2. Show up on time, so you can network before the open bar makes rational conversation a challenge. Head straight for the host of the party, and thank him for the invitation and great spread. Introduce yourself and make polite conversation with every executive and visiting corporate official in the room.

3. Make solid, direct eye contact with each new individual with whom you mingle. Listen more than you speak, and do not formulate your clever response while the other person is still speaking. Smile whenever possible, and use your open-ended questions whenever you hit a conversation lull or need to break the ice with someone new.

Tips & Warnings

• Your appearance sets the tone for every interaction. Wear something that makes you feel confident and attractive but that is not too tight or revealing.

• Never use a casual work party as the place to score your next date. One bad pickup line aimed at a corporate executive you've never met can cost your career. Save your prowling for the after party, or it may get ugly.

References

• Sideroad; How to Mingle; Kateryna Spiwak;
• Quintessential Careers; Surviving the Office Holiday Party; Randall S. Hansen, Ph.D.
• Families; Office Party Etiquette; Michele Cheplic