How to Act at a Holiday Office Party
The holiday office party is supposed to be a social occasion, but you should still follow certain rules of etiquette. Failure to do so could lead to potentially career-derailing mistakes. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Make sure you attend the event. Skipping the yearly holiday party could cost you valuable networking opportunities and be counted as an insult to your superiors. You also need to make sure you arrive in a timely manner. If the party starts at 8:00 p.m., don't saunter in an hour or two late, as it denotes a lack of respect.
-
2
Be selective in whom you invite. If your office party allows you to bring someone, make certain that the individual you bring knows how to behave appropriately.
-
-
3
Dress appropriately. While you may want to wear more festive clothing, avoid wearing outfits that are too tight, low cut or risque. Wearing revealing clothes, especially around your bosses, is a definite no-no. Despite the fact that you are at a party, you are still being judged by the choices you make.
-
4
Make sure that you speak to your superiors, their guests, your co-workers and others who are there, just as a matter of respect and courtesy. Be certain to let your boss know how appreciative you are for him throwing the celebration. Offer a few sincere compliments and a little small talk without overstaying your welcome.
-
5
Stay away from controversial topics, such as race, religion and politics. People tend to feel strongly about these subjects and you could end up alienating others or causing conflict. Stay with neutral topics, such as sports, music, movies or things related to your job. Never speak negatively about anybody from your job, as this could backfire.
-
6
Refrain from telling inappropriate jokes or using profanity. Some individuals wrongly think that a party atmosphere means that they can be more lax in their remarks, but off-color stories and bad language are considered offensive and in bad taste. You are still going to be measured by what you say and do, even at an office party.
-
7
Drink in moderation. Stick to nursing one cocktail or a glass of wine throughout the evening and, if possible, stick to nonalcoholic drinks like ginger ale or tonic water. Getting drunk removes all inhibitions and could result in embarrassing behavior that you may not even remember afterward. Be assured that your superiors and co-workers will remember. Poor conduct could thwart any chances you have of moving upward professionally.
-
8
Avoid trying to find a "love connection" at the office party. Bold flirting or getting overly physical with a co-worker you may be attracted to may give your boss and peers a negative perception of how you conduct yourself on a personal level. If you really desire to have a romance with somebody from your office, do so away from the eyes of people from your workplace. Keep your private life private.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Seize any chance to connect with those who can advance your career.
Have fun, but be guarded.
