HOLIDAY OFFICE PARTY DO’S AND DONT’S

Many a career has been tainted by inappropriate behavior at the annual office holiday party. Overindulgence in the free alcohol is usually at the root of people saying and doing the wrong thing at office parties, so drinking too much is an obvious don’t. Flirting and inappropriate touching is another obvious no-no. But, what are some of the other holiday office party do’s and don’ts that aren’t quite so obvious? Here are 10 of career development specialist Dr. Randall Hansen’s holiday office party do’s and don’ts:

1. Do remember that although office parties are intended as social events to reward employees and raise morale, they remain strictly business events. Do act as though your behavior is being observed every minute (because it probably is).

2. Don’t pass up the invitation to an office party; not attending could hurt your reputation. And when you attend, do spend at least 30 minutes at the party for appearances. But don’t overstay your welcome by partying until the wee hours.

3. Don”t pull the nightclub attire from your closet for the event – and do ask whether the attire for the party is formal or casual. The party is still a business function, so conservative party clothes are a good choice. Do remember to skip anything too revealing or too flashy. Keep your reputation for good taste intact.

4. Don’t spend all evening talking business. You’ll forever have the label as the office bore.

5. Do keep all conversations positive and upbeat. Don’t spend the evening complaining, bragging, correcting, whining, or ridiculing. And do avoid controversial subjects (such as religion, politics, etc.) and off-color jokes.

6. Don’t monopolize conversations – and especially, don’t talk about yourself or your accomplishments all night. Do show interest in others. Do be gracious and thank coworkers and team members for all their help and hard work during the past year. And don’t even think about gossiping about others.

7. Do keep one hand free during the night so that you can offer handshakes to people as they come by. And do keep your drink in your left hand, so you are not offering people a cold, wet handshake all evening.

8. Don’t assume everyone celebrates the same holiday, so don’t go overboard with the Merry Christmas.

9. Do be sure you know exactly who is invited to the party. Spouses or significant others are not always on the guest list for office parties. And if guests are permitted, don’t bring an inappropriate person as your guest.

10. Don’t forget to thank the person responsible for planning and coordinating the party. And do consider sending a thank-you note to top management hosting the party.