Love them or loathe them, work Christmas parties are a staple event of the festive period, offering an opportunity to unwind, cut loose and showcase your dodgy dance moves. Work Christmas parties also offer an opportunity to unwind a bit too much, resulting an awkward Monday at best, or serious consequences that will last far longer than the hangover.
With November nearly upon us, the talk of Christmas parties around the water cooler and kettle, are building to a boil. Questions surrounding the venue, what you are going to wear and your travel plans are all becoming more frequent, making this an ideal time to refresh your memory regarding the 'dos and don'ts' for a successful corporate Christmas party this year.
The 'dos'
Mingle and mix with your colleagues
Push all your preconceived notions and anxiety about small talk aside, mingling and mixing with colleagues you may not regularly get to talk to is one of the major advantages for attendees. In the working world, networking is an invaluable tool. One which can help you in unforeseen ways, helping to build your profile within the company and building rapport with colleagues while establishing connections.
Keep the tone positive
There is a time and a place for complaints and venting, and while your office Christmas party may seem like the best place to do so (especially when the alcohol is flowing ), it most definitely is not. Instead of sharing your gripes, or letting the relaxed atmosphere lull you into feeling comfortable enough to share your complaints, restrain yourself. At best, you will annoy your fellow party goers, many of whom likely have their own complaints that they are choosing not to share, and at worse you complain to the wrong person, opening a whole new world of bother for you when you return to the office.
Eat and drink responsibly
The food and drinks are part of the celebration, so enjoy them—but be sure to pace yourself. Since it’s still a work event, it’s best to stay in control. Drink in moderation, keep up your water intake and make sure you don't overtake your colleagues who are also drinking.
Loose lips sink ships, and nothing sinks a Christmas party ship quicker than becoming too drunk, sharing how you truly feel about each of your colleagues, and even getting so drunk that the venue have asked you to leave. You may not be able to remember it, but everyone else will.
Do your homework
Not really applicable for those who work in small offices where the employees are constantly interacting with each other, but for those working in larger businesses and are seeking to build their profile, being aware of who your manager's manager is, or what they look like, is a good idea. On one hand, knowing who you are talking to reduces the potential for the interaction to go poorly, i.e. talking inappropriately, on the other hand, knowing who to look out for can help you to build your profile within the company while socialising and having fun at the same time.
Research
Know the crowd you are going to meet. If possible, and appropriate, ask for the list of attendees. If you have received the list in advance reach out on LinkedIn to connect in advance – it makes it so much easier on the day.
It can also be helpful to have a few topics prepared that you’re comfortable talking about. If you have four or five, it’s a nice way to avoid awkward silences. Fail-safe topics are always holidays, what’s happening in the news (avoiding contentious issues of course ), Christmas plans, Christmas traditions and of course, the weather.
Show appreciation
For those who have not had the pleasure of organising a corporate event, let alone what is likely the largest corporate event of the year, it is easy to underestimate how much time ad effort has gone into arranging the day.
Make sure to express your gratitude to those who organised the party. A simple thank you goes a long way in recognising the amount of effort that has gone into making the event special.
The don'ts
Gossip or politics
This needs no explanation. Don't open this can of worms, Christmas parties are about camaraderie, relaxing after a busy year with your co-workers and reflecting on the positives of the past 12 months. They are not for; entering into contentious political arguments or sharing gossip about your co-workers.
Know When to Leave
When alcohol is flowing, it can be difficult when to pick up on social cues, especially about when to call it a night. If the party has started to dwindle, regardless of how much you are raring to continue your night, it is time to leave the event. You don't have to go home, but you can't stay there.
Respect Boundaries
Even in a relaxed setting, maintain respectful boundaries with colleagues to keep everyone comfortable and ensure a great time for all.
Dress inappropriately
Posing a similar conundrum as a school's non-uniform day, choosing your outfit for your office Christmas party can be a conundrum for some. While no one is expecting you to show up in business casual attire, the nature of the event as a whole should still be respected when choosing what to wear. Opting for something stylish, but not too flashy, opt to avoid excessively revealing, or ostentatious, attire.
Good clean fun
Following these simple dos and don’ts will ensure your corporate Christmas party is both festive and professional. Embrace the opportunity to connect with colleagues, enjoy responsibly, and keep the atmosphere light. With this approach, you’ll leave a positive impression and celebrate the season in style.
