Office Party Etiquette - How to Make Through Your Office Holiday Festivities

Do you have a holiday office party coming up andmingle and share your boss with everyone. If your
you're not quite sure how to act? Office parties tendboss wants to speak to you more, rest assure that he
to be awkward because they combine the businessor she will find you. Mingle with your other coworkers
atmosphere of work and the social aspect of a party.and you never know who you will meet.
It's hard to know which lines you could cross and- Be Gracious: Be sure to thank your boss and
which ones you shouldn't. Finding the happy mediumwhoever else was responsible for throwing the party.
isn't always easy, but with these great tips you shouldA lot of work goes into a Holiday party and it's
have no problem getting through the night.important that you show how much you appreciate
- Watch Your Alcohol Consumption: It's a holiday officethat. You don't need to go over board and make a big
party, and chances are there will be alcohol available.display of it; a "thank you" should be just fine.
It's okay to have a few drinks, even get a little tipsy; it- Be There and Be on Time: Generally speaking, being
is, after all, a party. However, it's never a good idea tofashionably late is a good thing for parties, however,
end up to drunk to remember the night. Being thefor some reason this doesn't really include work
"drunken guy in the corner" doesn't show muchparties. It's a good idea to come on time or only a few
respect for your boss. The last gift you want for theminutes late. This is especially important if a meal
holidays is a pink slip that you don't' remember getting.would be served. You definitely should be there by the
- Take Advantage of Opportunity: An office party is atime the first course (often a salad) is served and you
great time to interact with co workers and senior staffshould leave no earlier than after dessert.
members so take advantage of the opportunity at- Dress to Impress: Chances are you won't have to
hand. This is an excellent place to show your strengthwear a suit and tie to your office gathering, but that
as a person without having to discuss business. If youdoesn't mean you can wear anything you please.
share common interests like golfing, fishing, or otherLeave the ripped jeans and the comfy sneakers at
hobbies, with your boss feel free to chat with them.home. Opt for dress pants or dark denim paired with a
- Don't Get Greedy: Even if you feel you're reallynice button down top. Stick with casual dress shoes
impressing your boss with your witty conversation,and you'll be ready to dance the night away.
don't monopolize them the entire party. It's important to