Show up on time, don’t sneak out early, and unless the invitation says you can bring a spouse or a guest, don’t. Here’s how to attend the office holiday party with class, style, and no regrets.
Dress for Success
If a dress code is provided for the party, follow it closely; taking a different direction such as a sports coat or cocktail dress when everyone else is wearing holiday-themed “ugly sweaters” sends a disrespectful message. If you are unsure about the dress code, ask your supervisor or the office manager—most office managers have the impression that they run the company, so you’ll earn points by seeking their advice as a happy bonus.Even if you look amazing in clubwear, resist the urge to show off to avoid having your less-fit co-workers hate you forever. It is much better to dress conservatively than risk sending the wrong message to the boss, co-workers, or their significant others.
Good-naturedly follow the dress code to avoid sending the wrong message to your boss, co-workers, or any attending families. New Africa/Shutterstock
Everything in Moderation
When everyone is laughing and having a great time, it’s easy to lose track of how many drinks you’ve had. If at some point you suspect you have had one too many eggnogs, play it safe and get a ride home from a trusted co-worker or call a taxi or arrange for an Uber/Lyft ride home.On a related note, if you notice a co-worker has overindulged, offer them a lift home if you have a good relationship with them. Be diplomatic; if they become upset, back off and go find your boss. If it is someone you don’t know well, find their supervisor and ask them to intercede.
Keep it Casual
Some co-workers will invariably bring up business matters, but a party is intended to allow the staff to relax and take a break from work, not to be used by self-aggrandizing folks to hold impromptu meetings. If you find yourself in this position, make an excuse to go use the restroom or take another pass at the buffet. Take care to avoid the office troublemaker, narcissist, flirt, or lush, too. Be aware as you approach a group to determine what they are discussing; if it is politics—office or national—or office gossip, veer off and keep circulating. It’s far better to be thought of as boring than “that person” who stabs co-workers in the back or has controversial political opinions.Be Active and Helpful
If the event is being run by the office manager, offer to help with setup and/or cleanup duties. While the event is underway, if you notice someone has made a mess and then walked away from it, hoping no one witnessed it, step in and clean it up.Not everyone enjoys parties, especially with people you might not normally associate, but you need to at least greet everyone as you mingle, smiling as you go; you may make new connections that will be mutually beneficial. Hiding in a corner, or worse, in your office or cubicle if the party is at work, sends an anti-social message.
Be Gracious
Seeking out the co-worker who is playing the role of host to thank them for their efforts is a must. They worked hard making arrangements for the event and deserve a bit of recognition—but take care that you don’t sound like a bootlicker.If snacks or a buffet meal is served, don’t pile your plate high as if you haven’t eaten for five days. Similarly, while a second trip to the buffet is certainly acceptable, wait until everyone else has been through. Resist the urge to fill a Ziplock to bring home snacks for you or the pets. If there are leftovers, by helping with cleanup, you’ll have first dibs.
