A Little Corporate Holiday Party Etiquette

With most of my friends working for the man I thought we'd blog about the biggest mistakes made at corporate holiday parties. We know plenty who've made them and although the post-party stories are great (for those not involved!) those involved usually start the year (or week) off with a bit of shame. SO - to avoid the shame check out the big no-nos below:






1. Excessive Drinking: only because your company has paid for an open bar does not mean you have to drink the equivalent of your salary in booze. While your drink is spilling on your coworkers because you're swaying, your boss might start thinking about a replacement.



2. Excessive Eating: there is nothing wrong with food consumption - I do it and I do a lot of it. However, remember that people like to shake hands at these events and no one wants your greasy-bbq sauce - covered hands touching theirs. And a mouth full of food? Not so great.

• do not walk around with multiple hors d'oeuvres
• do not double dip or return buffet food
• properly discard your napkins, toothpicks, etc
  

3. Excessive Talking: no one wants to hear a 20 minute story about a vacation you took 5 years ago. Limit conversations to 5 minutes and avoid being formal or discussing business.

4. Excessive Complaining: no one wants to hear you complain - this is a holiday party so keep a fun attitude. And if someone else starts complaining - switch the topic.

5. Excessive Absence: being fashionably late to a corporate party is not so fashionable. Also, make sure to stay long enough to mingle and let your presence be known.

6. Excessive Attire: only because this is a holiday party does not mean you need to forget the dress code policy. For women - too much cleavage or leg is not appropriate. And for men - please don't all of the sudden decide it's Vegas and wear a shiny suit.

7. Excessive Guests: unless the invite specifies that you can bring your spouse or +1 - DON'T.

Policy obviously varies by office and some are more social than others. However, if you're not certain, follow these rules and you're sure to survive your first party.

For more info on appropriate dress, convo topics, and etiquette click here.