Office Party – Do’s and Don’ts
Office parties are ‘odd’ events, you are supposed to let your hair down and have a really good time but there are some unwritten rules you have to adhere to. Here are some tips on having a good time and on how to behave so you don’t offend anyone:
Do: Turn Up
If you’re a natural party animal, this one’s a no brainer. For those of you who are dreading the very thought you really really must go. It’s a once-a-year chance to see a different, more relaxed side of people and hopefully make new friends. By not turning up you will spend the next few months living down a reputation as the office Grinch.
Don’t: Wear That
It’s always tricky to get the dress code right. It’s horribly easy to wreck a hard-won professional reputation with just one misjudgement on a single evening. There may not be a dress code on the invitation but my advice is to keep it festive, professional and above all comfortable.
Do: Keep Off Your Phone
Try to resist the magnetic pull of your mobile phone. This isn’t the time to check your social media or message friends. Enjoy the company of the people in front of you and live the moment as it happens. Talking about social media do be careful about sharing party photos or videos, your colleagues won’t thank you or trust you again.
Do: Talk To Everyone
Understandably it’s tempting to stick with people you know. It’s easier that way, less awkward particularly if you are new to the Company. However it’s worth making the effort to talk to people you don’t yet know. Everyone will be pretty relaxed so it’s the perfect moment to introduce yourself.
Don’t: Talk About Work
It’s a party. No one wants to get stuck in a conversation about work issues. If you’re short of conversational inspiration try asking your colleagues a question you’ve never asked them before. Most people have hidden depths and the answers you receive may surprise you.
Do: Arrange The Journey Home In Advance
I don’t want to sound like your mum or anything, but make sure you know how you are getting home. Finding a taxi can be a nightmare during the Christmas Party season, booking one in advance saves you a lot of hassle.
Don’t: Get Over Excited
Usually there are gallons of alcoholic drinks at an office Christmas Party. After all it’s a reward for a whole year of hard work and you’ve earned it. There is no easy way to say this, so I’ll just come right to the point, don’t get drunk! If you do I guarantee you will become the main gossip in the office for quite a period of time.
Don’t: Get Off With Anyone
Now we all know what it’s like, you’ve fancied someone for months, surely the office party is the perfect opportunity to make your move? Well I can assure you that it’s not. Snogging on the dance floor or in the corner is unprofessional – sorry. Also it’s embarrassing and you’ll never live it down.
Do: Say ‘Thank You’
Take it from me putting an office Christmas Party together isn’t easy, someone has worked hard to make sure you have a good time. It’s also worth thanking the person who paid for it, especially if that person is your boss.
Do: Turn Up For Work The Next Day
Yes you may have been the life and soul of the party and yes you probably have a hangover but your can’t ring in sick with flu the next day – you won’t get away with it. The chances are your boss will have noticed that a few hours ago you were happily wailing along to Mariah Carey.
My final word on Christmas Parties is enjoy yours but remember where you are, you’re not out with your mates, your boss is there along with your boss’s boss so behave if you want to have a job in the New Year.
Enjoy it