Etiquette for Office Parties
The holiday season is rapidly approaching and, with it comes the annual company holiday party. Chances are you will be invited to at least one party and perhaps an additional one with your spouse or significant other. The economy has changed the way businesses hold their parties, but the etiquette issues remain the same, whether the party is a formal dinner or a potluck. You should plan to attend the party unless you have a valid reason not to; consider it a work obligation. Remember, your supervisors will be watching your behavior and that of your spouse or SO, so be careful. You want to impress, not depress.
Some businesses hold their parties immediately after work or during a long lunch break. These parties are often attended only by employees, but be sure to find out. If your spouse or SO is invited, be certain to get all the details - date, time, location, and dress code. If the meal will be a potluck, find out what you are expected to bring.
Don't bring your children unless the invitation clearly states "and family." If your children are invited, be sure they are on their best behavior and use good manners, including addressing adults as Mr. and Mrs., not by first names.
Plan to arrive on time. If the invitation lists a time range, such as 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., plan to stay at least an hour so you don't give the impression you are just popping in to fill your social obligation. Take time to mingle and speak with as many people as possible, particularly your supervisor. Plan to leave at the stated ending time; don't overstay your welcome. If no ending time is listed; take your cue from other guests. If possible, don't be the first to leave.
Both you and your spouse or SO should dress appropriately. If you are invited to dinner at a restaurant or hotel, don't show up in Levis, even if that's what you wear to work every day. Short skirts or revealing clothing are also inappropriate, as are 4" high heels if you can't gracefully walk in them.
Watch what you eat and drink. Though the food may be free, that isn't a reason to recklessly indulge. If a buffet is served, don't stack your plate; rather, leave something for those in line behind you. You can always go back. One drink may be okay, but be careful. You don't want to embarrass youself or your spouse. Remember, moderation in all things will cause you to be remembered positively, not negatively.
If dancing occurs and you don't dance, then plan to use the time to visit with fellow employees. If you like to dance, do so, but don't engage in any type of exhibitionism.
Bringing a gift for the hosts isn't expected unless the party is held at a private home. If it is, a box of candy or something similar will be appreciated. Don't bring a bottle of wine unless you know it is one the hosts enjoy. If a gift exchange will occur, find out what type of gift to bring. Some groups exchange ornaments. Others exchange white elephant gifts. Be sure your gift is appropriate, not offensive or silly.
Your company holiday party can be a time to enjoy getting to know your fellow employees and their families outside the office. It can enhance your standing in the eyes of your supervisors or tarnish it, depending on how you and your spouse or SO behave, so be careful. You want to be remembered for your graciousness, not for being the life of the party.
Some businesses hold their parties immediately after work or during a long lunch break. These parties are often attended only by employees, but be sure to find out. If your spouse or SO is invited, be certain to get all the details - date, time, location, and dress code. If the meal will be a potluck, find out what you are expected to bring.
Don't bring your children unless the invitation clearly states "and family." If your children are invited, be sure they are on their best behavior and use good manners, including addressing adults as Mr. and Mrs., not by first names.
Plan to arrive on time. If the invitation lists a time range, such as 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., plan to stay at least an hour so you don't give the impression you are just popping in to fill your social obligation. Take time to mingle and speak with as many people as possible, particularly your supervisor. Plan to leave at the stated ending time; don't overstay your welcome. If no ending time is listed; take your cue from other guests. If possible, don't be the first to leave.
Both you and your spouse or SO should dress appropriately. If you are invited to dinner at a restaurant or hotel, don't show up in Levis, even if that's what you wear to work every day. Short skirts or revealing clothing are also inappropriate, as are 4" high heels if you can't gracefully walk in them.
Watch what you eat and drink. Though the food may be free, that isn't a reason to recklessly indulge. If a buffet is served, don't stack your plate; rather, leave something for those in line behind you. You can always go back. One drink may be okay, but be careful. You don't want to embarrass youself or your spouse. Remember, moderation in all things will cause you to be remembered positively, not negatively.
If dancing occurs and you don't dance, then plan to use the time to visit with fellow employees. If you like to dance, do so, but don't engage in any type of exhibitionism.
Bringing a gift for the hosts isn't expected unless the party is held at a private home. If it is, a box of candy or something similar will be appreciated. Don't bring a bottle of wine unless you know it is one the hosts enjoy. If a gift exchange will occur, find out what type of gift to bring. Some groups exchange ornaments. Others exchange white elephant gifts. Be sure your gift is appropriate, not offensive or silly.
Your company holiday party can be a time to enjoy getting to know your fellow employees and their families outside the office. It can enhance your standing in the eyes of your supervisors or tarnish it, depending on how you and your spouse or SO behave, so be careful. You want to be remembered for your graciousness, not for being the life of the party.
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