If you have invited clients to the party, then remember they are your responsibility. Make sure they have a drink, food and are introduced to others. Avoid leaving them alone for long periods of time.
Be positive. This is not the time to complain about work.
Avoid talking business. Again, this is not the time and place. In fact, you may be perceived as a bore if you can't talk about anything else other than business. You will also appear boring if you make all conversation about you.
If spouses are invited, then be sure to introduce them to those they may not know. Also, make an effort to include them in conversations.
Mingle. Take time to network and schmooze. A holiday party is a great way to build business relationships. Make an effort to learn about your co-workers, including those above you, as well as subordinates. Show a personal side by asking about their hobbies or other interests. Also, let co-workers know that you appreciate working with them, and be sure to thank those who may have assisted you on special projects.
Don't be the last to leave.
At the conclusion of the party, do not gather a group of co-workers and ask if they would like to go to a strip club or any other place that may be viewed as inappropriate.
Before leaving, thank the person responsible for coordinating the party.
After the party, send a thank-you note to top management for hosting the event.
Don't forget to follow up on commitments that you may have made during the party.
So what do you do if you did act inappropriately? Own up to your bad behavior as soon as possible. Write a brief but professional note to those you may have offended, expressing a sincere apology for your indiscretions. Make it clear that it will not happen again.
While the office party is a time of celebration and reflection on the past year, it is not the time to be known as the "life of the party." Reputations and careers can be ruined during this seemingly innocent gathering. Remember, even if the CEO does not know you by name, chances are that the boss will remember your face. Make sure it is positive!
Pam Harvit, M.S., is a certified corporate and protocol consultant. She is employed by Merck and Co. E-mail her at phar...@suddenlink.net.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- This time of year brings a plethora of parties, including the office party. Never has there been an event where so many have committed so much career-limiting behavior in such a short time.
Remember, the word "office" is still in "office party." It is a business function cloaked in social context. This is not the time to relive those former fraternity party days. While your boss may not be watching you directly, someone else may be, and their opinion could impact your employment.
Demonstrate your ability to handle business situations of a social nature by keeping the following in mind:
Make every effort to attend the party. Not doing so may be interpreted as disrespect for your company and co-workers.Dress appropriately. This is not the time to dress in that tight skirt, revealing blouse, T-shirts or tennis shoes. Remember, the way you dress can alter one's perception of you.Hold off going straight to the bar when you enter the party. Circulate first. Show some constraint and confidence that you can communicate without the crutch of a drink.Limit your alcohol consumption. This is not the time to "power drink."If you are asked by an inebriated boss (or anyone else who has indulged too much) to dance, then politely refrain. Nobody wins in this situation.Eat (and drink) things that you can easily and neatly maneuver with one hand. Try to keep your right hand free so that you will be able to shake hands without offering a wet, greasy or cold palm.Avoid loading your plate with food. A plate that looks like a mini Mount Everest can make you appear greedy. It's better to get a small amount of food and go back for seconds. It may be a good idea to eat beforehand so that you are merely tasting the food at the party, and do not have to carry on a conversation between chewing and swallowing.When being introduced to someone, it is important that you look them in the eye and shake their hand.Refrain from political and religious conversation topics and inappropriate humor.Do not attempt to make a pass toward any employee or employer.If you have invited clients to the party, then remember they are your responsibility. Make sure they have a drink, food and are introduced to others. Avoid leaving them alone for long periods of time.Be positive. This is not the time to complain about work.Avoid talking business. Again, this is not the time and place. In fact, you may be perceived as a bore if you can't talk about anything else other than business. You will also appear boring if you make all conversation about you.If spouses are invited, then be sure to introduce them to those they may not know. Also, make an effort to include them in conversations.Mingle. Take time to network and schmooze. A holiday party is a great way to build business relationships. Make an effort to learn about your co-workers, including those above you, as well as subordinates. Show a personal side by asking about their hobbies or other interests. Also, let co-workers know that you appreciate working with them, and be sure to thank those who may have assisted you on special projects.Don't be the last to leave.At the conclusion of the party, do not gather a group of co-workers and ask if they would like to go to a strip club or any other place that may be viewed as inappropriate.Before leaving, thank the person responsible for coordinating the party.After the party, send a thank-you note to top management for hosting the event.Don't forget to follow up on commitments that you may have made during the party.So what do you do if you did act inappropriately? Own up to your bad behavior as soon as possible. Write a brief but professional note to those you may have offended, expressing a sincere apology for your indiscretions. Make it clear that it will not happen again.
While the office party is a time of celebration and reflection on the past year, it is not the time to be known as the "life of the party." Reputations and careers can be ruined during this seemingly innocent gathering. Remember, even if the CEO does not know you by name, chances are that the boss will remember your face. Make sure it is positive!
Pam Harvit, M.S., is a certified corporate and protocol consultant. She is employed by Merck and Co. E-mail her at phar...@suddenlink.net.
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