Office parties are a time to catch up with colleagues and spend time with management, but it’s easy to forget that informal conversations are powerful, and when alcohol is in the mix, discussions tend to become more relaxed. Take the example of a colleague who ended up comforting another employee who apparently drank too much and began to complain about the stress of working, how their job was wrecking their marriage and if they weren’t in debt they would leave the company. That information can make things awkward back at the office.
Here are some simple rules that can keep your career on the right path as you head into 2012:
Be sensitive to your alcohol consumption. Alcohol consumption has a way of taking a lighthearted conversation somewhere you don’t want it to go. That’s where parties can change career paths, so be sensitive when you are reaching your limit and stop.
Sample appetizers in moderation. Eating like there’s no tomorrow is not the best impression to leave with your colleagues.
Almost everyone has a camera on their phone, so behave as though everyone is watching.
Stay with light, positive conversations. Refrain from sharing office gossip. Sometimes ignorance is bliss, and this especially is true when colleagues start sharing too much information. When in doubt, stay positive.
Take the time to ask questions that build rapport, and don’t do all the talking or all listening. You must be interested in what the other person is saying to have a good conversation. Be interested in order to be interesting.
Be a gracious participant and make an effort to mingle. Avoid staying at just one table. This is your chance to reach out to colleagues who you seldom see during the workday.
Be cautious with humor. Others may misinterpret your kidding as serious, especially if you are in a management role.
Have a good time but remember you represent your employer no matter who is attending the event.
Have you had an awkward office party moment?
