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Third in a Three-Part Series: Pointers for Avoiding the Biggest Holiday Party Pitfalls

11/08/11

The hard part is over. You picked a site, coordinated the décor, food and activities (under budget!), and organized a celebration that respects your employees’ varying religious beliefs. The company holiday party is just a few weeks away, and everyone is eagerly awaiting the big event.

Before you throw open the doors and kick off your celebration, remember these party pointers. The last in our three-part holiday party planning series, these guidelines can mean the difference between a positive experience filled with fond memories or cringe-worthy moments that will linger well into the new year.

Employees can make the most of the holiday shindig by:

  • Making an appearance.  First and foremost, employees should attend the event.  Even though it’s the holidays and everyone is busy, “no-shows” stand out.  At the very least, being a gracious guest demonstrates that you’re a team member and that you’re plugged into the company culture.
  • Dressing appropriately. This is no time to shake up the status quo and shock your coworkers with your attire. Don’t show up looking like you’re cleaning out the garage … or test the boundaries of good taste with clothes too tight, too short, too shiny or too low. Do your best to blend and avoid any fashion blunders.
  • Cutting back on the cocktails. While you may be tempted to have a few drinks to loosen up, know that any change in your behavior will be quickly noticed. Too many trips to the spiked punch bowl or open bar can lead to sloppy conversation and composure. Limit yourself to one or two cocktails (and drink lots of water or soda in between) so you can keep your professional demeanor intact.
  • Minding their manners. Although you are not officially on the clock, your conduct during off-hour events should be the same: businesslike. Don’t compromise your reputation with loose lips or lapses in sound judgment. Keep it clean, don’t gossip and don’t push the boundaries. If it’s not acceptable for the office or boardroom, it’s not acceptable for the holiday party.
  • Striving to mingle. While it’s safe to hang out with your regular work group, a holiday gathering is a great time to talk to people you don’t know as well. Be upbeat and show an interest in others. On the flip side, don’t attach yourself to just one person and monopolize the conversation. Move around and mingle.
  • Limiting “shop talk”. When you’re mingling with others, try to keep the business banter to a minimum. This is a holiday party, not a quarterly business meeting. Instead, take advantage of the opportunity to get to know your coworkers on a more personal level. Ask open-ended questions, avoiding controversial topics like politics or religion and sticking with safe topics instead, like travel, family, local sports and movies.
  • Expressing gratitude. Before leaving the party, make an effort to thank a senior manager or executive. Not only is it proper etiquette, but it also gives you a chance to make a positive (perhaps even first) impression. Be sure to say thank you for any gifts or recognition you may have received, as well. Your politeness will be appreciated – and remembered.