For those of you new to the workforce, there are a few helpful hints that will help you shine through your career. First is how to master office party etiquette. With the holidays among us, it is likely your company will have a party to celebrate. Your behavior at such functions can shape your co-workers and more importantly, your boss’ perception of you. Don’t worry. There is no need to stress out. Below are some helpful hints on what NOT to do at your office party.
Don’t guzzle down cocktails
“Watch what you drink,” Bill Peppler, managing partner here at Kavaliro, says. “I have seen too many people feeling a little too comfortable around the bar.”
One too many can loosen your inhibitions and lead you to act ways you wish you hadn’t the next morning.
If your office is full of heavy drinkers, there is a simple trick. Order something like a rum and Coke or gin and tonic, then stick to plain Coke or tonic the rest of the night.
Get a sense of the dress beforehand
The last thing you want to do is show up in cut-off jean shorts when everyone else is in suits and dresses. Ask an office veteran how fancy the affair is going to be (save your elf sweater and blinking holiday earrings for another function). If no one gives you a clear indication as to the dress code a safe bet is always cocktail attire. Another great indicator as to what to wear is what venue you are going to, make sure you do some research.
Master small talk
“Use the party as a great time to network with your boss, or somebody else you might not have the normal time with during a workday,” says Catriona Harris, managing partner of Uproar PR. “It is a great time to impress the boss and show them a bit of your personality.”
There is always a chance that you may have a drink or two during your holiday event and that is more than ok. Be sure that you grab a Lyft, Uber, Taxi, or carpool too and from your work event. Having a ride is the responsible thing to do and shows your colleagues that safety always comes first. Grabbing a rideshare also helps you avoid parking fees and valet costs!
Thank the Organizer
A lot of work goes into planning a holiday party. Always take a moment and thank the organizer for their hard work orchestrating the evening. While you make the rounds with your masterful small talk also thank your boss and any other high-level executives for a lovely evening. Thank you's help you stand out and makes you a gracious guest. Oh' an email thank you is also a great idea!