Surviving Your Company's Holiday Party

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It's that time of year again. Time for holiday parties with family, friends, and coworkers. Between now and New Years, you will find yourself attending many gatherings and while you may be able to go into gatherings with family and friends with confidence, sometimes work related parties are a little different. The holidays are a stressful time as it is, so often times we worry about conducting ourselves in a certain manner when we are face with work functions that take place after work hours. There still needs to be a level of professionalism, but you can still have a little fun and even make meaningful work connections during the office holiday party. 

The number one rule of holiday office parties is to be prepared and I've conducted a few tips to help you do just that.

Clothing

We've all been to a party where someone walks in wearing something inappropriate. Let's try not to be that person. It's important to remember that while it's an after office hours party, and you aren't technically on company time, you should still dress in a professional manner. Make sure all clothing fits properly, with nothing too loose and nothing too snug. Go with a more conservative look. Something comfortable is a must, especially when you are looking for footwear. You are more than likely going to be standing or walking around a lot and you want to make sure you can do so comfortably. 

Mingle

Make a point to  mingle and strike up conversations with people who work in other departments; ones that you don't typically come into contact with on a day to day basis, especially those in higher positions. Introduce yourself to new people in the company and have a small chat. With you name on their radar, you just might increase your chances of getting out of that stuffy cubicle or being considered for promotions. 

Conversation

Of course it's an office party, so naturally you are going to chat about work related things. However, make sure you have some backup topics. You don't want to spend the entire party talking about work. This is a party, after all, and everyone is there to have a good time and get away from that "work flow".  Chat about popular movies or television shows; what everyone is doing for the holidays. Stay away from political and religious talk. Anything controversial is never a good party conversation no matter who you are partying with, but especially in a work environment. 

Alcohol

Make sure you know your limit when it comes to alcohol. No one wants to be the topic of water cooler conversation the next day because of how they behaved after having a bit too much to drink. Limit yourself to one or two alcoholic beverages, then move on to soda, water, or juice. As always, if you are drinking, make sure you have a safe ride home after the party.


Emergency Repair Kit

You should already have something like this in your desk, glove compartment, or purse, but it's always a good idea to carry a few things you may need in case of emergency wardrobe malfunctions. A few things to consider are Tide To-Go Stain Remover Sticks, a mini sewing kit, and even some Listerine Pocket Packs and Dentek Flossing Picks.

Above all, HAVE FUN! This is your time to "loosen the tie" and unwind with coworkers.