Office parties are in full swing this time of year with lunches and special events giving you the opportunity to communicate outside an office environment. The dynamics of meeting off site are the perfect ingredients needed for creating an informal atmosphere making you feel as though what you say doesn’t count as if you were in the office.
Talking with colleagues across departments and blowing off some work stress can seem innocent. After all, everyone shares the common bond of work. The truth is sharing common bonds and wanting to know your colleagues better makes for good working relationships however it pays to plan ahead knowing that holiday parties can bring out some awkward conversations.
The good intentions of “letting your guard” down by being genuine and approachable during work gatherings comes with a risk because an office party will always be attached to work. In fact, your informal communication style and judgment will often influence your fellow colleagues and boss more than your daily office interactions.
It helps to keep in mind that what you say combined with your non-verbals create a powerful impression that can be long lasting in the minds of your coworkers. Take for example the colleague who has had a tough work schedule and sends a mixed message by talking about being onboard with the company’s goals yet rolls their eyes when the boss’s name is mentioned.
The goal is to enjoy your office parties while building stronger connections with your colleagues and you can if you avoid some common mistakes. Jacqueline Whitmore, author of “Poised for Success: Mastering The Four Qualities That Distinguish Outstanding Professionals” offers some good tips on avoiding a night of barefaced blunders:
– Don’t make a beeline for the food and drink. It’s best to eat a little something before the event so you don’t come to the party hungry, scope out the crowd first and the goodies second.
– No swinging from the chandeliers. An open bar isn’t an open invitation to drink yourself into oblivion. Indulging in too much alcohol could have unfavorable repercussions if you’re not careful. To maintain your professionalism, limit your alcohol intake to one or two drinks.
– Choose your guest carefully. The person you bring to the party can reflect either positively or negatively on you. Follow the dress code and make sure your date does too. This is not the time to wear your most revealing outfit or your favorite blue jeans and a t-shirt. Keep it festive, yet professional.
– Don’t talk shop. Though work topics are bound to come up, this is not the time to plan your company’s next advertising campaign, talk about the recent layoffs, or gossip about a co-worker’s divorce. Keep the conversation light and positive. Be sure to include spouses, partners and guests in the conversation.
– Be all there. A holiday party is a great time to get to know others on a personal level. Be engaged and don’t spend a majority of the evening texting, talking on your cell phone, or posting photos on Facebook. Put people first and put your phone on silent.
– Don’t sit with your friends. Reach out and introduce yourself to people you don’t know rather than sticking with only those you do know. An office party is a chance to shine and mingle with those you don’t see very often. Have some conversation starters available. Most people love to talk about travel, food and hobbies.
– Give thanks to those who helped. Saying thank you is not only cordial behavior, but will make you stand out from those who don’t express their gratitude. Send a thank-you note to key persons who helped organize the event and to those who made the event possible.
What has been your most interesting office party experience?
