"How much do you know about motorcycles?" asked my co-anchor after finishing our newscast last night.
"Only that they look fast and dangerous," I replied opting not to get into the details of a relationship with a biker from years past which is barely alive in the recesses of my mind it was so long ago.
My rather sophisticated colleague went on to tell me that her hubby, who belongs to a motorcycle club was insisting that she attend the club’s holiday party. It was a compromise, she said. And payback, as he too will adorn her arm for her workplace company party.
It’s not always the fun it’s designed to be, we both pined, finding ourselves dishing about the dreaded decisions surrounding workplace party scenarios. The dragging of said spouse to the party is only the beginning. While they can be lots of fun, and quite entertaining as we get a chance to see a more personal side of our colleagues, it’s a revealing adventure to be undertaken with awareness. People talk, sometimes they drink, sometimes they show a side better left for other venues.
The flip side is that we’re afforded the opportunity to speak with our co-workers under less stressful conditions. There is generally a joyful tone to being more open and even loving or understanding. It’s a chance to really engage our colleagues with more awareness, and interact like human beings instead of cogs in the wheel of business. Often it can lead to a connection within the company and offer career advancement.
I’m not trying to suggest controlling your workplace party experience to the extent that it’s contrived, but it’s worth following a few guidelines for yourself so you have a safe, productive and fun experience rather than putting your foot in your mouth. So here are Judy’s Holiday Party Workplace Tips:
- Presence: First, be sure to dress appropriately. Ask about the dress for the occasion – not your typical workplace gathering. Might be anything from business casual, to evening elegant to black tie. If you’re going to do the cocktail dress, make sure it’s not a revealing number. Second, inquire about bringing a guest. It would be embarrassing to leave your date in the car (make sure they know the dress code as well). Third, be sure to RSVP if asked to do so. As for "presence", when engaging all co-workers whether you work for them, or they work for you, stay present in who you are in business without sacrificing your human side. And be present when someone is speaking to you. Even though you might be itching to make an impression elsewhere. It’s just the kind thing to do.
- Awareness: You’re in holiday mode but you are likely mingling with the person who signs your paycheck, or at least the person who knows the person, who signs your paycheck. That means a keeping your image, persona, and reputation in tact. You can have a good time but keep your cards close to the chest. You instinctively know your appropriate boundaries. Being in a festive mood is fine, but keep in mind that you are going to have to face these people on Monday morning.
- Intake Monitoring: Get a handle on your alcohol and food Intake.This is a joyful occasion, but it is still a workplace event. Again, you know your limitations. There is a huge difference between a social glass of wine and getting plastered because the alcohol is flowing freely. While most are aware of this getting out of hand, many do not think about their food intake. Of course you want to have a ball, but a meatball on an evening gown is a deal breaker, so is food caked in your front tooth. If you are going to chow down, have mints and some toothpicks handy.
- Familiarity: The purpose of going to a holiday party is to have a good time with co-workers, right? Well that’s the idea but there is generally an opportunity to engage the higher-ups in conversation. A simple hello and acknowledgment is OK, but there’s no reason to grab the spotlight for attention. A tendency toward being too familiar with a boss, might rub him or her the wrong way. It’s OK to engage and be friendly, but unless your boss brings up an issue to discuss, which is unlikely, keep the conversation light. If you are fortunate to speak with a person who might help you advance in your career, a simple conversation and introduction is fine – but again – keep it light. You can follow-up with an e-mail of phone call at a later date.
- Avoid Office Gossip: We might be inclined to snoop around a bit, but seemingly innocent conversations can randomly head in directions you best steer clear of. Same rule of avoiding gossip in the workplace, goes for that party. Also, someone is bound to stand out at the party, but you don’t have to be the one spreading the nasty rumors at work. If someone goes down that track of gossip – get off the train.
- Ending the Evening: As the evening winds down, be sure you haven’t been spending the entire night at one table. It’s smart to meet new people from other departments and may be a good career move. Be sure to thank and acknowledge those who coordinated the party. They are generally pooped at the end of the night and it’s just a nice thing to do. Don’t be the last to leave, you will stick out like a sore thumb. Especially if the party is on a weekday night.
