Etiquette Centre of Mpls December Newsletter

The holiday office party season is upon us! As you prepare for upcoming office parties, it is crucial to note that while office parties are an opportunity to mix with coworkers in a more relaxed setting, these events are first and foremost business functions. Just as you notice what others at the event are saying and doing, they will be noticing the same of you.

A corporate trainer noted, "At our big holiday party, a newly hired employee went up to the company vice president and said, 'I am also a [religion] and I know you are too. How many of us are there in senior management?'"

Another example of a career derailer came from a graphic designer of a pharmaceutical consulting company. "For the holiday party "awards" night, my boss asked me to Photoshop the face of one of my young, female coworkers onto a bikini model. I explained that it was highly inappropriate and firmly refused. Undeterred, he used the glue-and-scissors method to do it himself. When he unveiled his homemade award at the party (which featured my coworker's head on the body of a scantily clad photo of a female WWE wrestler), everyone was highly uncomfortable - both for the employee and for everyone else in the room."

Office party etiquette is not only about good manners, it is crucial to your career, especially in times when there is much competition in the marketplace for employment. These events are opportunities to either build or derail your career and reputation. Follow these suggestions to shine at your next holiday office party!

I Guess I'll Go.
First and foremost, attend the office party. It is important to your reputation to be seen and to socialize. Plan in advance if there are specific individuals you would like to meet or thank. Arrive within twenty minutes of the start of the party and stay for at least an hour (less shows disinterest).

They Aren't Bringing Them Again!
In order to still provide a holiday party for their employees while cutting costs, many companies have begun moving to employee only events. The invitation will specify if you may bring a guest or children. If it is not specified, attend alone or ask.

You're Not Wearing That, Are You?
If the event is during or at the end of the workday, business attire is appropriate. Formal attire may be noted on the invitation for an evening event. While a festive function, it is still a business event so no ostentatious ties, clothing too low cut or too short, or something you might see at a club. You want to be remembered for your professionalism and refinement. Leaders of the company will notice and the impression remaining can determine if they consider your style appropriate for advancement or client interactions.

I'll Drink to That!
Avoid drinking more than two alcoholic beverages. It is best to have none to only one. This is a business event and imbibing too greatly increases the risk of inappropriate behavior and language, jeopardizing your career.

I'll Have Some of Those, and Those, and...!
Double-dipping, hoarding food, asking for doggie bags, or overeating at office parties are considered very tacky and are not appropriate behavior in the corporate arena. Andrea Correale, President of Elegant Affairs, a five-star catering and event planning company in NYC, noted, "At one corporate event, attendees would load platefuls of food from the buffet to share back at their table. Simply serve yourself."

He's Such a Bore!
Use the office party to your advantage and mingle with those you do not usually have an opportunity to connect or those you do not know, perhaps company leaders or those from another office location. While it can be more comfortable, avoid socializing with only those you know well. Mingling with others helps you build your network. Some employees forget that mingling is not the same as flirting. One company owner shared that "One of my key employees hit on my husband at our Christmas party. Once I saw (and overheard) what was happening...I sent the employee home in a cab with no treats or gifts but a pink slip written on a cocktail napkin."

Look to connect on a more personal level, and encourage others to talk and share. Avoid discussing work, politics, religion, or other hot buttons. Remember jokes can be easily misconstrued, and foul language shows a lack of refinement. Gossiping or talking poorly about the company is also a career derailer. You do not want to be gossiping about your boss in the restroom, only to learn they or their spouse are also in there!

I Suppose I Ought To Send A Note...
Never underestimate the importance of a thank you. Follow-up with leaders and others responsible for the office party with a thank you note. In our hurried world, this will be remembered.

And a final bit of advice - taking the flowers and decorations from the table never makes a good impression!