What Not to Do at a Holiday Office Party

It’s that time of year again when companies pull out all the stops to show appreciation for a year of hard work with a holiday party! The office holiday party is one of the few chances you will get to loosen up, enjoy cocktails, and socialize with your co-workers without stress. What you don’t want to do, however, is to have your holiday party become a holiday bummer because you neglected to avoid these helpful party faux pas.

1. Drink Too Much

This is rule number one for a reason. The quickest, easiest way to unravel that stellar reputation you’ve been building and nurturing all year, is by ending it as that drunk, belligerent, overly friendly, sloppy, embarrassing co-worker at the party.

2. Overshare

This can correspond with the drinking, but you don’t have to be fully intoxicated to start talking too much either. Don’t say anything you wouldn’t say during the regular workday. If you have to give a second thought to questions or comments before they leave your mouth, default to saying nothing at all. You’ll be glad you did.

3. Be Cliquish

You have your work besties, and that’s totally fair and expected. However, now is the time to meet new people and put yourself outside your comfort zone. Mingle–get to know workers in other departments. Smile, dance, and chat with those that rarely cross your paths. This is the perfect time to work on your relationship building.

4. Dress Inappropriately

Despite the suggested party attire, keep in mind you’re with co-workers and not your girls at the club. By all means, wear the sparkles and holiday silk and spruce up a bit but be sure you’re appropriately dressed and covered up.

5. Be Anti-Social

Parties can be awkward, even when they’re with people you see every day. Try, if you can, to engage those around you. Don’t use the merriment and activities as an excuse to retreat. If you can’t find anyone to chat with, post up by the desserts or the bar – someone always eventually shows up there.

6. Work

It’s a party! Leave the work conversations in your MS Teams chat. Go and enjoy talking about your hobbies and what you like to do outside of the office!

7. Complain

If you did not contribute to the party planning, you have no right to utter a single complaint. Yes, there will always be things you wish were different, but now is not the time to voice them. No one wants to hang out with “Grumpy Gus” during party time. Say something you are enjoying about the festivities, every time you are tempted to utter something negative.

Follow these tips and enjoy the party!