How to – Finesse the Office Party The seasonal mine field of the Office Party is upon us. While some adore them and others loathe them, the Office Party has become another professional opportunity that can be filled with potential. The question is: can you leverage the potential for good or evil!? Is it an opportunity for you or will the result be a missed chance, or even disaster?

Some suggestions:

No matter how much you try to make the Office Party an out-of-work function, it isn’t! It is an extension of work. The boss is always the boss. The relationship does not change just because the location does.

Party clothes are different that your office attire, but you are an employee, manager, or owner no matter what you are wearing. Don’t go too far in any direction: low, high, tight, or loose.

Watch your words. Conversation that has been lubricated with alcohol or too much informality and relaxation can get you in the same trouble as if you were at work. Legally, you may find judges who are lenient when it comes to sexist, racist, or harassing comments at an Office Party, but an offended employee can still bring a lawsuit. The rules that apply during the day, apply in the evening as well.

Liquor makes people more relaxed. People who are more relaxed tend to say things they might not ordinarily say. Confidences, company secrets, and non-public information can be exchanged because people are more comfortable. Know where the line is drawn between comfortable, and too comfortable.

Use this occasion as the opportunity it can be. Rather than spend time with the people you talk to every day, the more casual atmosphere can provide the chance to talk with people you want to connect with more. Create some conversation starters before the event and walk over to talk with the people you want to know better (or people you’d like to know YOU better).

The Office Party is a chance to celebrate the holidays with the folks you spend a great deal of time with throughout the year. It doesn’t have to be a test of your fortitude or the story everyone is talking about next week.

Labels: Office party

  4:35 PM •