How to Survive the Office Xmas Party with your Dignity Intact

Well, I can really answer this in one sentence: Don't do anything stupid! But that doesn't make for much of a blog, so let's elucidate a little...

• Know the "rules". Are you allowed to bring your partner or is it strictly staff only?


• Do you need to RSVP? Do so if you are required to.


• Dress accordingly - the venue will determine what you should wear but if you are not sure, ask.


• Don't assume anything - some companies can afford to provide an open bar for their staff parties and some cannot. Make sure you bring sufficient funds with you to cover your own drinks AND the cab fare home!


• I know somebody has to be the first to arrive at the party, but that doesn't have to be you! It's not good to be the last to arrive either - if the office party involves a formal sit down dinner, your late arrival will be rude. If the start time is 7.00 pm, try arriving between 7.15 pm and 7.30 pm. Don't make other arrangements for the same evening - it will not look good if you have to leave early to attend another engagement!


• Be sober when you arrive! Don't go getting drunk, bar hopping on the way to the venue!


• Likewise, don't head straight for the bar when you arrive. Mix first and say hello. If you have brought somebody with you, make sure you introduce them to everyone.


• This is one of those occasions when it is a good thing to be friendly with your Boss' wife. When I say friendly, I don't mean flirty - I mean make conversation; be polite. In fact, be friendly and make conversation with all the invited spouses - make them feel welcome. Some will be feeling uncomfortable, perhaps among strangers.


• Don't talk shop. Discuss sports, the weather, ask about families, children, plans for the holidays or whatever.


• Don't flirt! Now is not the time to make your moves on the secretary or any other co-worker you've had your eye on the past months!


• Watch your language! If you watch your drinking, drink slow and sensibly, you are less at risk of making a fool of yourself or losing control over your language. This means be careful about the types of jokes you tell also!


• When it's time to eat, avoid sloppy foods - unless you are an adept with the cutlery. You will not make a good impression on the CEO if you have food stains on your tie! And do remember your manners at the dinner table. If you are unsure, wait until others start eating and follow their example. Don't talk with your mouth full. Chew your food slowly. Don't burp!


• Of course, you have to enjoy yourself too. If there is dancing, join in. If there are "games", join in.

Don't forget, important people in your company will be watching you - and how you conduct yourself at events such as these can make or break your career!

Terri Levine
http://www.comprehensivecoachingu.com
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