Christmas corporate events are a double-edged sword; employees want to party and have fun, but this is no ordinary social event. Executives and co-workers alike must maintain a level of professionalism to avoid a costly office Christmas party faux pas.
In the words of famous poet Ralph Waldo Emerson, "What you do speaks so loudly that I cannot hear what you say." Don't let one night of company Christmas mischief taint a reputation cultivated over eight-hours-a-day hard work.
How to Prepare for the Corporate Holiday Party
Respond to the corporate holiday party invitation before the RSVP date. If expectations are unclear, ask a company executive whether guests are allowed and what the office Christmas party dress code looks like. Whether the atmosphere is corporate casual or black tie, avoid revealing or too-casual clothing.
If alcohol is served at the event, arrange transportation to and from the party in advance. Drinking and driving is socially unacceptable, at work and with friends.
Company Christmas Party Etiquette - Five Important Rules
Company Christmas party etiquette is simple to follow. Arrive on time, courteously introduce any guests to co-workers, and follow these five office holiday party rules of etiquette:
- Never consume too much alcohol.
- Keep the conversation light and interesting; refrain from gossiping about co-workers or bosses.
- Office romances, though often forbidden, are not uncommon. However, the office holiday event is not the time or place for public displays of affection or airing dirty laundry.
- Avoid hunkering down with close friends from the office. Mingle and make an effort to speak with as many people as possible at the Christmas party.
- Use good table manners and avoid overeating.
At company events, someone is always watching. Remember that these are the same people who may give performance evaluations, make decisions on raises, and ultimately fire unsuitable employees. Let everyday performance be a factor in those decisions, not Christmas party behavior.
Tricks for Success at Christmas Corporate Office Parties
Save a boring company Christmas party with fun, casual conversation. The principles of acceptable first date conversation apply when socializing with co-workers: get to know people without being too personal or invasive, and avoid touchy subjects. See First Date Conversation Topics for unique conversation starters to kick off a stalled social event.
Avoid guilt by association. Mix and mingle with positive, fun party-goers and avoid those backstabbing the boss, drinking heavily, or chatting about the latest office romance rumor. Standing idly by while others behave badly may be seen as participating by onlookers.
Choose an appropriate, gender neutral gift for a Christmas exchange. Avoid joke or crude presents. If all guests are not exchanging gifts, do not present the boss or favorite co-workers with gifts at the party. Deliver personally and privately to the office.
How to Avoid Being "That Guy/Girl" at the Office Christmas Party
Everyone knows one... the man or woman who monopolizes the conversation, brags incessantly, kisses the executives' behinds, or has to be carried out and sent home with a babysitter.
Those who drink too much when they are nervous or bored should avoid consuming alcohol at an office Christmas party. Do not interrupt others, and practice the art of listening attentively. Stay until the party begins to wind down, even if it seems boring. Don't be the first (or last) to leave.
Have Fun and Make the Best Impression at an Office Holiday Event
Good manners, common sense, and self-discipline are all that is required to have fun and make the right impression with co-workers and managers.
Dress appropriately, practice making interesting conversation, and get to know something new about others from the office.
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