‘Tis the season for office holiday parties. While the festive atmosphere can be full of business opportunity, it is important to keep in mind some do’s and don’ts for your upcoming social calendar. Check out our holiday survival tips to keep you off the naughty list.
Look dashing in the snow. While the holidays are a great time to add a festive touch to your outfit, you should still treat a holiday party like any other business event. And, career and author of The Essentials of Business Etiquette advises that dress code is important no matter where the party is held, “you don’t want people talking about what you wore the day or night after the party.” Read more of Pachter’s tips.
Spread holiday cheer. Try not to cling to the same co-workers or supervisor you spend most of your time with at work. Take this chance to make new connections or get to know the people you otherwise wouldn’t work with on a daily basis.
The more the merrier, usually. While a holiday party may be a great occasion to introduce your coworkers to a friend or significant other, make sure guests are invited before you bring them in tow. The host of the party has likely planned for an estimated number of people and the addition of unexpected guests can really throw things off. When in doubt, ask.
Don’t make it a silent night. Have fun and get chatting, but don’t only talk business. It’s natural to talk briefly about what’s happening at work, but this relaxed atmosphere is the perfect opportunity to get to know your boss or co-workers on a more personal level (but avoid the trinity of gossip, politics and religion).
Sip some holiday cheer, but not too much. Enjoy a glass of wine or two but don’t forget the reason you’re there. The last thing you want is to negatively impact the reputation you’ve worked hard to build at your company. Find out how to avoid other holiday faux pas.
Watch the clock. Some of your higher level executives are likely to attend the festivities, but chances are they’ll have to leave early to make it to another engagement. Don’t miss your chance to get some one-on-one time with the leaders of your organization by arriving on time.
Want to build more connections over the holidays? Join us for the Chamber’s annual Net90 Holiday Party on Thursday, Dec. 21, at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science to practice these six holiday survival tips.
Kathryn Goggin is an associate at Barefoot PR.