Office Holiday Party Survival Guide
By
User:Kristenmollica @timeAndDate(1280266430)
It's everyone's favorite time of year, the office holiday party! No wait, everyone's favorite time is the day ''after'' the holiday party. Unfortunately, most of us do not enjoy such events (unless you work here at ShopWiki, of course!), but you can still make the best of it without making a fool of yourself. No one wants to be the subject of discussion come Monday morning, nor do you want to ruin your career. Although these parties are meant to be a reward, they are also a way for your supervisors to evaluate you and your social skills.
Put On Your Game Face
* '''Show up!''' Some may tell you to avoid the holiday party like the plague, but it is imperative you at least show up. Your bosses want to know that you care about the company and you can socialize with your fellow coworkers.
** Even if you really do have other plans, stay for at least one hour and try to say hello to everyone.
* '''Dress appropriately'''. Now is not the time to wear that powder-blue polyester tux or the dress that shows off all your assets. A holiday party is not a nightclub. Keep skin to a minimum and shy away from lavish or loud outfits.
* '''Bringing a date can be good or bad'''. Be wary of immediately bringing a date with you. Is this person going to make you look bad or good in front of your coworkers? It's better to go solo then have your date embarrass you.
* '''DO NOT GET DRUNK!''' This is, without a doubt, ''the'' most important rule. Try to have only two drinks that night or have a glass of water in between cocktails. Getting drunk, or even very tipsy, is a bad ideain fact, it's a disaster waiting to happen.
* '''Eat something'''. It will be hard to remember all these rules when your stomach is growling, but stay away from greasy or messy foods. If it's not finger food, steer clear: items that are larger are notoriously tricky to eat while standing up.
* '''Mingle'''. This is your chance to network. You may be tempted to talk to your closest pals all evening, but take the time to introduce yourself to everyone.
* '''Chat with upper management'''. This is the second most important rule. Make small talk, don't talk shop with them. Show them that you are an interesting person, but don't brag about how great you are either.
* '''Make appropriate conversation'''. Stay away from heated debates about politics or religion. Crude humor is also a big no-no. Keep the conversations light and optimistic.
* '''Don't gossip'''. Leave the rumors for the water cooler on Monday.
* '''No flirting'''. Although your coworker may be looking spiffy in that dress, this isn't a singles bar. Other people will then be subject to break the previous rule.
* '''Do not overstay your welcome'''. You don't want to leave after 15 minutes, but you certainly don't want to be the last one to go. Stay at least an hour to an hour and a half.
** Remember to thank your host or hosts.
* '''Bonus tip'''. Don't get caught stealing the leftovers!
Remember a Gift
A gift is not always necessary, but perhaps the office party is when "Secret Santa" or gift exchanges take place. Even if you're not exchanging, a present for the host is never a bad idea, unless of course you purchase a terrible one. Here are a few ideas that will never go wrong.
Related Guides
*
Hosting a Christmas Party
*
Event Planning
*
Throwing Your First Holiday Party
*
How to Throw a Dinner Party
*
How to Survive a Zombie Apocalypse
