How Not To Make a Fool of Yourself at the Office Holiday Party

It’s been a great year, you’ve worked really hard, and your company has brought back the holiday party to reward the team for a job well done. Before you pop the champagne be mindful that your behavior at the holiday bash will impact your professional reputation come Monday morning and beyond. Here are some tips to keep in mind before you celebrate with colleagues this season.

Everything in Moderation

In many organizations the booze flows at the holiday fete but after a long day of work and with no food since lunch, it’s easy for the alcohol to go to your head. If you don’t drink, the holiday party is not a wise place to start! Be confident in ordering a soft drink, or a faux mixed drink (tonic water and lime) and enjoy that without succumbing to peer pressure.

If you do drink, enjoy a libation but nurse it slowly throughout the evening. Make sure you eat and hydrate with water as well to maintain your metabolism and your equilibrium. Everyone has a story about the infamous person who got sloshed at the office party and it’s never remembered fondly. Even though it’s a celebration, you are still at a work function and will be mingling with important people in your organization who can impact your career growth.

Networking No-No’s

It’s wonderful to come together with people you know in your organization and to meet new people with whom you have not yet worked at the holiday party.  Keep conversations positive and upbeat because your behavior is always monitored by the powers that be.  The way in which you interact with new people and engage in conversation, for example could showcase to your boss that you are ready for a challenging new project in the company – or not.

Don’t gossip, tell off color jokes, or use inappropriate language now that you are out of the office. You are still an ambassador for your company – even at the party.  Know your organization’s rules for inter-office fraternization since the holiday bash should not be a place to hook up or find a date. Also be sure to ask if spouses or significant others are welcome since this is not always the case.

Dress for Success

It’s great to take off your tie after work or dress up more festively for the holiday party if the venue calls for it. Dressing too casually or immodestly can be problematic as well. Remember, even though you are going out, you are still with colleagues so dress for success not for the Bachelorette or Stag Party.

On Monday morning you don’t want to be the water cooler topic of conversation because of the sexy outfit you donned this holiday. Be mindful of your company culture and know that the holiday party impression you make will be long lasting whether it’s positive or negative.

Leave the Mistletoe at Home

Office romance is a reality but what happens in Vegas should stay in Vegas. Don’t flirt or pursue your secret colleague crush at the office party.  Public displays of affection are never cool at a work event so enjoy your love interest or significant other at home and be on your best behavior at the office party.

If you are on the holiday decorating committee – nix the Mistletoe just to be on the safe side!

Always Act Professionally

By all means, have fun at the holiday party since you deserve to relax and enjoy a good time. Eat, drink, and be merry but be aware of the fact that your behavior is visible to the entire company and your future in the organization is always being considered.

It’s ok to let your hair down and enjoy some fun, but remember when you decide to break dance or lend your voice to a karaoke tune – somebody may be recording you on their smart device and you may go viral on YouTube!