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The office holiday party: If these words conjure shame-faced memories of killer hangovers, foot-in-mouth disease and mistletoe moments you'd just as soon forget, you probably want to skip it. But don't plan a convenient flat tire just yet — there are compelling reasons why you need to attend.
A recent report from global outplacement firm
Challenger, Gray and Christmas indicates that U.S. companies are putting a greater emphasis
on holiday cheer this year, with 80 percent reporting that they plan to hold functions and 23 percent boosting their party budgets by 5 to 20 percent. That's a big turnaround from last year, when only 70 percent of surveyed companies were holding parties and only 11 percent increased party budgets.
With the powers-that-be putting more resources into the annual shindig, your absence might be interpreted as apathy or a lack of appreciation. And how many opportunities do you get for face-time with the higher-ups? Use the holiday party to your advantage, and it could be reflected in your next promotion.
But to make a good impression, you need to do away with the idea that this is a time to blow off steam; otherwise you could end up with a lampshade on your head and a pink slip on your desk.
To make the most of your office holiday party without making a fool out of yourself, just follow a few simple do's and don'ts.
- Do attend the party (see above).
- Don't overstay your welcome. You should arrive shortly after the stated start time and stay long enough to see and be seen.
- Do behave professionally — this may be a party, but it's still a work function, after all.
- Don't drink too much, if you drink at all. One or two drinks should be your maximum.
- Do keep your hands to yourself. Now is not the time to see what might develop with your office crush.
- Do dress appropriately. If you're unsure, find out what the dress code is. This is still a business event, so avoid anything too flashy or revealing.
- Do take time to network with the people who can influence your career, but …
- Don't spend the whole evening talking business.
- Don't complain about any work-related issues, and don't gossip.
- Do avoid controversial topics of conversation, such as politics or religion.
- Don't assume everyone celebrates the same holiday.
- Do thank your host before you leave, and send a thank-you note the following week.
- Do arrange for a designated driver. Never drink and drive.
- And most of all, do enjoy yourself. The holiday party is a way for your company to say thank you for all your hard work. Show your appreciation by having a good time!
Do you have office party tips to share? Send them to us — we'd love to hear from you!
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