The holiday season inevitably brings office parties and corporate events that are difficult to avoid attending without appearing to be the office snob. Some people prefer not to attend out of fear that something they say or do will be inappropriate and wind up as office gossip. Knowing office party etiquette can eliminate that fear and make celebrating fun without the fear of going to the office the next day.
Corporate parties, large or small, should be viewed as networking opportunities. These are not parties to see where throwing caution to the wind is recommended. That doesn’t mean that it has to be a dull and boring event. Have fun and mingle with other professionals but make sure to keep in mind some tips for partying like a professional.
Bringing Guests
Adhere to the invitation. If it says guest or spouse, then bring a guest. If it doesn’t say bring a guest, it is not acceptable to assume that a guest can come. Don’t bring children to company events unless invitations specifically state families. Another no-no is bringing an extra guest. Just because Aunt Betty is visiting for the weekend doesn’t make her invited to the party.
Know When to Arrive and When to Leave
Invitations always have a starting time and an ending time. Don’t arrive too early or too late. Arriving within half hour of the start time is acceptable. Later than that can be seen as rude, unless it is a cocktail reception and no time is indicated.
Don’t be the last one to leave the party; however, don’t leave too soon after arriving. Plan to mingle at least an hour. Less than that gives the impression of boredom and that anywhere else would be better. On the other hand, staying too late gives the impression of being the party hound. Remember that co-workers tend to watch what each other do and ultimately will discuss it around the water cooler.
Attire
Most invitations will state what the dress is for the event. If it is going to be held at the end of the business day or during business hours, business attire is acceptable. If the invitation doesn’t state what attire is acceptable, stick to business wear that is dressed up, for example adding a cocktail purse or high heels.Regardless of the attire specified, there are a few no-no’s that a professional will avoid.
- Being too dressed down. Blue jeans, t-shirts and sneakers should never be worn to an office party.
- Showing too much skin. Low-cut cocktail dresses or mini-skirts should be reserved for going out on the town.
Dressing for an office party should be similar to dressing for an important business meeting with a little festivity thrown in for good measure.
Alcohol and Conversations
Most office parties will have a bar, often an open bar that doesn’t cost guests. Too many people see this as an opportunity to power drink, especially younger generations that are just starting out in the corporate world.
Drinking at a corporate event should be paced. Have club soda or water between drinks and limit how many drinks are consumed. Instead of mixed drinks, have a wine spritzer to cut back on the amount of alcohol being consumed. This will help avoid any awkward moments the next day when co-workers are passing around pictures from the party. Save power drinking and partying for another time.
Limiting alcohol consumption also helps with conversations. Some people might be shy until they have a few drinks. The downside is that when the inhibitions go away, there tends to be a lot of things said that really shouldn’t have been. Avoid disusing politics, religion and other co-workers at office parties.
It might appear that following office party etiquette puts a damper on the party. It doesn’t have to be that way. It is perfectly alright to have a good time and mix it up with other people in the company. The key is remaining professional and in control. Office parties can be great networking events or they can damage professional relationships. The choice is up to the individual.
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