5 Office Party Do’s and Don’ts

I bet the first thing that came to your mind when you read the title is obvious – the recent case where a young lawyer got drunk hanging out with colleagues after work and was responsible for the deaths of two people.

We all know what should and should not be done, yet we don’t mind crossing boundaries once in a while. However, that once in a while may be too heavy a price to pay for your reputation.

Most of us socialize outside of the office with the people we work with. Whether it’s a celebration for the completion of a major project or a dinner invite to your boss’s home, or a party with your distributors and dealers, you want to be relaxed and at the same time put your best foot forward. You should be able to have fun at such events and return to office with your head held high.

Follow these 5 rules to be remembered as the life of the party for all the right reasons:

1. Do follow the instructions on the invite: Firstly make sure you RSVP after you receive an invite. Read and adhere to the instructions mentioned – party theme and dress code. The invite will also tell you if you are expected to attend with your spouse or partner. If required do inform the name of your guest.
2. Do arrange for transportation after the party: It is the prudent thing to think about your transportation back home after the party. Get colleagues who may live in your area to car pool that day and hire a driver for the drive back. If that’s not an option taking a taxi is the best solution.
3. Do use the opportunity to network: Use the opportunity to network, make new friends and create a better rapport with colleagues across departments. Discuss hobbies and other interests for deeper connections with people. Network with people who you may not be directly working with but may play a role in furthering your career.   
   
4. Do not get inebriated: Needless to say, it’s highly inappropriate to be over drinking at an office party. Know your limits and stick to them.
5. Do not talk shop or complain about your workplace and colleagues: It’s very easy to get into the trap of gossiping and cribbing about one’s workplace and colleagues at office meet-ups. Keep away from joining such office groups. Your original seemingly harmless remark may get blown out of proportion and retold all over office. Work related discussions should be kept brief. If the invite is extended to spouses they may find the work conversation uninteresting. Small talk is what is required and expected at office parties.  

Do thank the organizers for their efforts. Making a good impression at office parties will help you build a good reputation.