Dec 11, 2007 7:53 pm US/Central
21 Things About Office Holiday Party Etiquette
Remember that office holiday parties are still considered
being at work; it's part of your job. Remember, you are always being watched!
Dressing:
- Ask
the host or party coordinator whether the party is casual or formal.
- If the
event is after work, office attire is appropriate.
- For
evening and weekend events, wear conservative party clothes.
- Do not
wear flashy, extremely short or overly revealing clothes.
- Be
festive, yet professional.
Eating and Drinking:
- This
probably goes without saying, but drink in moderation. Drinking too much
can lower your inhibitions.
- If you
are bringing a guest/spouse, they must drink in moderation as well.
- Hold
your drink in your left hand so your right hand is available for shaking.
- You
are not there for the food, but to celebrate the season. Eat in moderation.
- If you
feel you may overindulge in alcoholic beverages, designate a driver.
Networking:
- Unless
you have a really good reason, you must go to the party.
- Spend
at least 45 minutes at the party and don't arrive as the party is ending.
- Don't
leave after the specified time or be the last one to leave.
- Before
bringing a spouse, make sure he's invited.
- Find
out who's going to be there.
- If the
owner, president or CEO and other key people don't know you, be sure to introduce
yourself.
- Act
professionally; for example, it's not recommended to pull anyone under the
mistletoe. This is not a time to bring out your wild side.
- Keep
conversations light. No
complaining, bashing or heavy business conversations.
- Don't
hang with the usual people. Talk to as many people as possible. Spend about
ten minutes talking to each person.
- Don't
bring gifts unless it's specified in the invitation.
- Not
everyone celebrates the same holiday; be sensitive to that.
General:
Be sure to enjoy yourself, but don't have too much fun. What you do or say at the holiday party can live on long after the party is over. Be sure to thank the host, the boss and/or party coordinator.
Source:
Personas Image Dynamics
(© MMX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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