Useful Tips How to Behave at Office Company Party
Office parties or workplace-related events are a great way to improve social bonding amongst employees and reduce stress. Unfortunately, the same events that promise to be fun and frolic, sometimes, tend to be notorious for inappropriate behavior of the guests or certain unwanted incidents. From special day celebrations to year-end bashes, companies may expect their … Continued
Office parties or workplace-related events are a great way to improve social bonding amongst employees and reduce stress. Unfortunately, the same events that promise to be fun and frolic, sometimes, tend to be notorious for inappropriate behavior of the guests or certain unwanted incidents.
From special day celebrations to year-end bashes, companies may expect their employees to attend parties organized at or by the office. Everyone can enjoy these as long as some rules of decorum are observed.
It is easy to get into trouble but wise to tread carefully and avoid any gray areas when it comes to dressing for office parties, interacting with other employees and seniors, or consuming drinks. These useful tips for a company office party will ensure you have fun responsibly.
Following the dress code
While some office parties take place at the office itself, some are held at other venues. Always check that you are dressed for the occasion and according to the venue. While you have some way to dress up in case you are going to a banquet hall or a garden party, conservative options are a safer choice inside the office space.
Also, confirm beforehand whether the party will be held indoors or outdoors and dress according to the weather.
Bringing family or friends
Unless specified in the invite, bringing a family member or a friend along with you to an office party is certainly not advised. In case the occasion specifically demands the presence of friends and family or if you have been asked to bring somebody along, you may; but check the same in advance and ensure that your spouse or friends are following the dress code as well.
Arriving on time
It is impolite to reach the party too late or directly when dinner is being served, for instance. Be punctual. Arrive on time and not very early either. It is better to have your commuting plans laid out in advance.
Whether you go alone or in a group, check for available parking space or company transportation in case any is being provided.
Eating and drinking
These are the principal activities of any event or party, but inappropriate behavior often follows eating or drinking too much. Many employees have been fired due to things said or done after over-indulging. Remember that a company party is not an occasion to eat all you can or indulge in drinking games and bets with your friends. These must be reserved for your private time, away from the workplace and colleagues.
It is best to eat and drink in moderation or stick to soft beverages at a company party, so you do not end up embarrassing yourself.
Social interactions
Office parties are perfect for some interaction amongst colleagues and seniors but only as long as the interactions are within the limits of appropriate behavior. Otherwise, the HR and legal departments are bound to have a busy week after the event.
While interacting with other guests at the party, maintain a respectable distance. You may shake hands but hugging or kissing others, even if they are your best friends, must be strictly avoided, as this is a formal setting.
Avoid gossip. An office party is not the place to discuss anybody’s personal lives, interpersonal relations, quarterly performance, or leadership skills. Also, do not broach topics that can make people uncomfortable – pay attention to those around you and act accordingly.
Conclusion
Be remembered for your professional and amicable behavior and not for inappropriate remarks, inappropriate jokes, or cringe-worthy dancing. Enjoy responsibly so that you can make the most of your company celebration.
