You learned about nightclub etiquette and karaoke etiquette in the now classic CitynetMagazine.com articles, now it’s time for some advice on how to behave at office parties. Be they loaded with boring banter or blatant boozing, office parties can be a snooze fest or a wild ride. Either way, etiquette experts agree that, if people want to maintain or advance their employment, attendance is required at any company-sponsored party.
When attending, it’s easy to let loose and forget that, although it is a party, it is still work. Partygoers beware, attention to detail is important because the wrong move can eliminate potential promotions or even lead to firing. Here are some basic tips on how to successfully survive your office party.
Drink Responsibly
Office party behavior typically involves drinking at least one alcoholic beverage. Be aware of how much you drink and keep your level of drunkenness as hidden as possible. Even a slight beer buzz might be sensed as something negative by an alcohol-weary boss and being and acting drunk could lead to costly personality persecution.
Dress Appropriately
Avoid wearing anything too casual, nothing too sexy (for women, duh) and, in most cases, nothing too formal. When in doubt, dress like you would for work.
Timing is Everything
It is important to be on time and to not overstay your welcome, especially when the party is hosted by the boss. Being on time shows respect and maxing your stay to two hours eases stress on both you and the host.
Do Not Flirt with the Office Babe
Every office has a hot babe that everyone drools over, dreams about, wishes their girlfriend or wife looked like, and thinks about while taking care of business. While a limited amount of flirtation might be acceptable in the office when no one is watching, work parties mean there are plenty of spectators to misinterpret jokes, innuendos and sly winks. You do not want to be caught or suspected of hitting on the office hottie.
“But I’m Sure to Get Some Action with Her”
If you do think you can close the deal and still face her at the office later on, you have to be extremely discreet about your activities. Make sure no one sees you leaving together or better yet, leave at different times (even a few minutes apart) and meet up somewhere.
What About a Colleague’s Hot Friend?
Some office parties allow you to bring friends. If you’re interested in someone’s hot friend, you have more room to flirt but be careful and mindful of who’s in attendance at the event. You might just want to get her digits and see where it goes from there. That’s probably a better alternative to hooking up with her that night, allowing everyone to see that you left together, becoming office gossip.
Manners Matter
Be as courteous and respectful as you would be at a job interview. Good manners and politeness still go a long way.
Avoid Political Debate
This advice should be followed at work and at an office party. While your boss or colleague might have some simmering political sermon to preach, experts recommend avoiding this touchy topic with a smile and slick subject change.
Master Mingling
While it is important to avoid touchy subjects like politics or religion, carefully crafted small talk that avoids blundering remarks can have surprising results. Making friends is key to advancement in almost any company. If you have trouble mingling or your socially awkward, it’s time to take some social adjustment classes. Hire a personal etiquette coach if you have to.
Choose Guests Carefully
If the office party is one where a friend is to come along, make sure you choose wisely. If your friend or spouse has trouble following these rules, it’s best to leave him or her at home. Experts warn that when you’re welcome to bring a date, remember their antics could tarnish your reputation just as easily as if you broke the rules yourself.
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