Etiquette: The Holiday Work Party
Yes, it's that time of year - and if this is able to save ONE person, all the work, time and effort that goes into writing this blog will be well worth it. Someone might stop and think before doing something they will regret for the years to come.
Work parties are a SETUP, yes, that's right a setup. Workers hear the word "party" and they think it's an event to rip loose, relax and let everyone see how they are outside of the workplace...
I know what you're thinking..."Oh no!"
I'll make it easy:
- If it's a work party, then it's WORK. It's not time to let your hair down and rip loose.
- Easy on the alcohol. Believe me, you will be remembered for one thing you did when you were drunk just one moment during the holiday party then for years of being a professional colleague.
- Use the time to network - have a manager introduce you to the big boss and share an interesting tidbit, but for no more than two minutes. Talk about what you're working on but also non work-related topics too.
- Think about ANY pictures you take with colleagues; they may end up on Facebook or other social media sites.
- Dress - if you are newer to the organization, ask older colleagues.
- Tone - ask if there are topics to be careful about. Go with awareness and context.
- Avoid superficial networking - don't talk to one person while looking around to see who you can talk to next. Be engaged and engaging....eye contact is key.
- Focus - on people who are there, not those who are NOT there, lay off the texting. I can't stand it when I'm talking to someone and they pull out their phone and start texting.
- Talk to people you wouldn't usually talk to - it helps build relationships.
- If clients are present, talk to a few that aren't necessarily yours, make them feel welcome.
You've got 12 seconds - In a short-dialogue situation like a party, you are going to get 12 seconds to interest someone or be shuffled to the side if there is no engagement.
Posted by George Zaharoff at 11 December 2011, 9:06 AM 
Categories: Etiquette
Tags: social media facebook work place drinking setup zaharoff etiquette holiday party office professional
Categories: Etiquette
Tags: social media facebook work place drinking setup zaharoff etiquette holiday party office professional
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