The holiday season can be a time of joy, but usually is a time of stress for those who dread the workplace frivolities. Follow these simple guidelines for a stress-less happy time at work.
Office Christmas Party (Large)
Despite the downturn in the economy, many large corporations are still having their annual holiday party. Many companies have downsized the festivities though, or passed more the of cost onto the employee. Consider going on your own without a date, so there will be no "questions" about your personal life. Even if you have a significant other, talk about the benefits and downfall of you both going. Does your partner really want to wear a fake smile at all the people you complain about on a regular basis? Consider saving the money and the time, and plan to go out on your own to a nice restaurant with the money not spent on the workplace party.
Conversely, if you absolutely LOVE your workplace, consider bringing your partner and/or date and have a great time - just follow some of the other guidelines listed below.
Office Christmas Party (Small)
Many companies, large and small, are choosing this route – having a small (employees only, clients invited) after business hours get-together. It allows the company to save money and time with just one party for both employees and clients and can be considered a "working party". It is strongly suggested you attend this function, if only for a couple of hours, for your career survival. Your company is probably paying for all of it, and it allows you that all important networking possibility!
To Drink or Not to Drink
Repeat this mantra – office/work and alcohol do not mix. These are the same people you must work with and answer to on a daily basis. Do not even think for a moment that you can handle the alcohol. Your career is (or should be) too important to chance a slipped comment due to loose lips from alcohol. Some advocates state one glass of wine or bottle of beer will not affect your tongue but will help you to relax. Only you can decide what is best. Just remember the mantra – office/work and alcohol do not mix.
Attire
Wear appropriate attire for the party. This is not the time for that fancy, low cut dress or see through top. Suits for men are always appropriate, but so is a jacket and nice slacks. The company party is not a pick -up bar (although you might think some of the attendees don't seem to realize that). For a small party, your business attire is fine. For a larger, catered affair, think after-five but before midnight – and don't close the establishment. Your career survival depends on you flaunting your mind, not your body. Your professional appearance should be maintained at all times.
Conversation
Even though you are at work, you don't have to talk shop. Use this opportunity as a chance to get to know some of the other employees, managers, and clients. What do they do outside of work, what do they think of the coming year? Yes, it is okay to talk about work, especially if it's to further your own knowledge of different departments and possible openings for your career. Just don't talk about any thing that could be construed as bad about your own company or department.
Bottom Line
Consider suggesting that instead of the obligatory office party, that the office donate the monies normally spent on a party to a local chairty. Even better, consider as a group, to volunteer the time you'd spend at a party to the local food bank or local hostel and help out those who are less fortunate. That's what good cheer is really all about. And you'll feel great helping others.
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