7 Steps to a No-Regrets Office Holiday Party
Photo Credit: NBC
While almost everyone looks forward to a party, there’s a certain amount of stress associated with socializing with your boss, co-workers and staff. Follow these easy rules to make sure you can hold your head high come Monday morning.
DO: Accept the Invitation and Show Up
Your boss and co-workers want to see you and spend time with you this holiday season! Unless you have something important to do or an emergency gets in your way, show up to the holiday office party and stay for at least an hour.
DO: Dress Appropriately
You may be tempted to really let it all hang out, but think twice. This is STILL a work event. Get into the spirit with a holiday tie or dress but keep it fairly professional.
DON’T: Buy Inappropriate Gifts.
Everyone loves a joke and a gag gift but keep it PG rated! Very expensive gifts can also lead to an awkward exchange.
DO: Limit Your Alcohol Intake
Going near or over the legal limit of alcohol during a holiday office party is never a good idea. For some people, they become sick, tired, emotional, or even angry. Know your limit before taking that extra glass of wine.
DO: Talk to Everyone Attending The Party
Catching up with your coworkers and boss is a must, but also try and talk to their guests (if guests are allowed at the office party). Not only does it help you network, but it also shows your coworkers and boss that you are interested in their guests, which means you also care about them!
DON’T: Assume Everyone Celebrates the Same Holiday
Unless you know that someone celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah, or another holiday, stick to the generic but friendly “Happy Holidays.”
DON’T: Over-Share
A little too much alcohol, the need to please to get that raise, or the added stress of the holiday season can put you at risk for oversharing personal issues. Though you work closely with your co-workers, always keep things professional and gossip free. Not only does it make things easier when the party is over, but it gives everyone, including you, a chance to relax and enjoy the party, knowing that personal issues are left at the door.
So have fun and enjoy! And on Monday, show your true character by not gossiping about those who didn’t follow these tips!
DO: Accept the Invitation and Show Up
Your boss and co-workers want to see you and spend time with you this holiday season! Unless you have something important to do or an emergency gets in your way, show up to the holiday office party and stay for at least an hour.
DO: Dress Appropriately
You may be tempted to really let it all hang out, but think twice. This is STILL a work event. Get into the spirit with a holiday tie or dress but keep it fairly professional.
DON’T: Buy Inappropriate Gifts.
Everyone loves a joke and a gag gift but keep it PG rated! Very expensive gifts can also lead to an awkward exchange.
DO: Limit Your Alcohol Intake
Going near or over the legal limit of alcohol during a holiday office party is never a good idea. For some people, they become sick, tired, emotional, or even angry. Know your limit before taking that extra glass of wine.
DO: Talk to Everyone Attending The Party
Catching up with your coworkers and boss is a must, but also try and talk to their guests (if guests are allowed at the office party). Not only does it help you network, but it also shows your coworkers and boss that you are interested in their guests, which means you also care about them!
DON’T: Assume Everyone Celebrates the Same Holiday
Unless you know that someone celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah, or another holiday, stick to the generic but friendly “Happy Holidays.”
DON’T: Over-Share
A little too much alcohol, the need to please to get that raise, or the added stress of the holiday season can put you at risk for oversharing personal issues. Though you work closely with your co-workers, always keep things professional and gossip free. Not only does it make things easier when the party is over, but it gives everyone, including you, a chance to relax and enjoy the party, knowing that personal issues are left at the door.
So have fun and enjoy! And on Monday, show your true character by not gossiping about those who didn’t follow these tips!
About Nicole DelToro: Nicole has been helping organizations (big and small) hire and retain top talent for over 20 years, while helping individuals realize their personal and professional goals by ensuring they’re working in the environment that’s ideal for their current situation. Contact her at: ndeltoro@andrewscole.com
Andrews & Cole is a woman-owned boutique executive search and consulting firm with a focus on accounting and finance professionals. Clients range from start ups to Fortune 100 in nearly every industry.
Andrews & Cole is a woman-owned boutique executive search and consulting firm with a focus on accounting and finance professionals. Clients range from start ups to Fortune 100 in nearly every industry.
