We are midway through December which means one thing: workplace holiday parties are in full swing! These parties can be a great opportunity for you and your co-workers to bond and share in your accomplishments from 2018 however, in the midst of all of the fun it can be easy to forget that you are still at a workplace function and there are rules and etiquette that must be followed.
Below we have outlined a list of 5 Do’s and 5 Don’t that you should follow for your next workplace holiday party. Use these tips to stay on your best behaviour and successfully navigate your holiday party this year!
Workplace Holiday Party Do’s and Don’ts
DO:
Attend
The office party is a time for the whole company to come together and for management to thank their employees for their hard work this year. Be sure to put in an appearance and celebrate as a team.
Know Your Limits
Do not drink to excess at your work party. Know how much alcohol you can handle and scale back on your drinking. It’1s fine to have a few drinks with co-workers but becoming drunk and rowdy is unnecessary for a work function. Know your limits and stay within them to maintain composure.
Be Mindful of Your +1
If you’re going to bring a guest to the holiday party make sure they are aware of the environment they are entering into and that they are on their best behaviour. Your guest is a reflection of you, anything they do or say to your co-workers will reflect on you once you’re back in the office on Monday morning.
Mingle
Be sure to mingle with co-workers! This is a great opportunity for you to get to know people outside work. If your company is large then the office party is also a great chance to mingle with individuals from other departments and get to know executives in other areas of the business.
Remember to Say Thank You
A lot of work goes into arranging a holiday party for your company. Make sure you express your gratitude and say thank you to the appropriate people for taking the time to put together the event.
DON’T:
Dress Inappropriately
Before showing up to the party make sure you know the dress code. It may not be appropriate to show up wearing an ugly christmas sweater if the party requires fancy evening wear.
Forget You’re at Work
Even though you are at a party do not forget that you are being judged as though you are at work. Keep your comments and drinking in check to ensure you’re not embarrassed on Monday morning.
Talk Too Much Shop
While the topic of work is bound to come up (you all work at the same place after all…) be sure to take time to talk about other things. Too much work talk can lead to gossiping and doesn’t make for a relaxing evening. Take a break from the office work and talk about other interests throughout the night.
Post Pictures Online
Amidst the fun of the office party it is easy for everyone to start snapping pictures. Be mindful of what is posted online and avoid any unprofessional photos that could harm your co-worker’s or your company’s reputation.
Skip Work the Next Day
No matter what happens at the party, make sure you show up for work the next day. Nothing is worse than being too drunk from a work event to show up and do your job the following day. Keep yourself in check and make sure you’re able to walk into work the next day with your head held high – not hiding in shame from anything that happened the night before.