7 Cardinal Rules for an Office Party
Having been indoors for the better part of this year and last year it`s time that we unwind. We all enjoy the occasional drink as well as pomp and fanfare that comes with an annual holiday gathering. Many a time though, we’ve seen people tossing their manners down the dumpster all in the name of an end of year office party. It’s important to bear in mind that you are still amongst co-workers, within a professional setting. So here are some tips that will get you through with your sanity and reputation intact.
A gift that most people possess is getting jazzed about open bars. When it comes to office parties, free drinks are a definite highlight. Don’t presume that your colleagues and managers won’t notice if you make six trips to the bar. News flash, this not the time to be pushing the envelope. Know your limits and don't go beyond them. Try not to drink on an empty stomach, drink slowly, sip your cocktails, drink lots of water between rounds, and note the old adage, the ‘grape and the grain’ do not mix. This ensures that you remain in control and do not do or say anything you might regret.Psssst… just between us -No one likes a drunk.
The Dj is playing all the hit songs and you assume enough Dutch Courage to hit the dance floor, Kudos to you. The Cardi B in you just won`t let you sit. Not to be party poopers but, don`t get over-zealous with your dance moves - you really don’t want to risk either an injury or, embarrassment to yourself. Put the dancing queen or king in you on a short leash-we don`t want you to be fodder for the office rumour mill.
Let`s face it not everyone is a party ‘animal’. Some people simply don’t like the festive season or don’t want to spend their precious free time involved with their work or work colleagues – and that’s fine! If you fit that description we advise you to show up for even just a brief period, greet all the key individuals at the party and be seen. It is ok, to leave after a respectable period. This reinforces that you are a team player and enjoy being involved in outside work activities.
JT from accounting or Sharon from the Human Resources department may suddenly look a lot more appealing under bar lights than cubicle lights. Ignore your animal instincts. Workplace romances - or worse, one night stands can be disastrous. Don’t flirt with co-workers or act in a sexually provocative manner. Your seemingly innocent moves might land you a sexual harassment charge.
So you might think it`s a good idea to talk about your boss or your co-worker? When you speak to colleagues, keep the conversation upbeat and positive. You may run out of things to discuss with your colleagues and filling the silence by gossiping about a colleague is a No! No! In short, don`t feed the rumour mill. Don’t take this as the perfect moment to air out your work or personal grievances, it’s the best way to avoid office gossip the next day.
You don't want to be the one who shows up in an outfit that is too casual or too formal or too revealing. We love dressing up, and office parties are an opportune time to trade the office garb for some glam party clothes. You’ll still be in the presence of colleagues, higher-ups and other professionals; keep that in mind when choosing an outfit for the event. Office holiday parties are an extension of the office. This is not the time or place to wear your short skirt and low-cut blouse.
If your work’s Christmas Party is on a school night, no matter how hung-over you might be the next day, don’t call in sick. We all know what’s wrong with you and you’re not fooling anyone!
Happy Partying