Office Party Dos and Don'ts

‘Tis the season of the holiday office party—and we’ve all heard the stories of career suicide committed during these festive soirées. The truth is that with a few Dos and Don’ts, you can rock your career to the next level–and have some fun!

DO: Put Yourself Out There
This is THE party that all the bigwigs attend. It’s casual, festive, relaxed and the perfect opportunity for you to introduce yourself to the CEO and make an impact on your difficult to pin-down boss. You see your day-to-day colleagues each and every day – expand your reach and get out of the corner, away from the bar and mingle like a banshee.

DO: Grip A Drink
While you’d think it goes without saying, based upon the horror stories we’ve all heard or been a part of, it’s worth repeating; this is not the party to get bombed. While the easy solution would seem to keep your hands off the punch, it’s not. Your co-workers will be indulging in a glass or two and you want to ensure you don’t make them uncomfortable, feel guilty or as one co-worker of mine told me; her glass-less night turned speculation around her drinking problem. Have a glass of wine, but not five. And the truth is; no one needs to know what you’re drinking.

DO: Contain Yourself
While without question this is a party and feel free to take off your suit jacket–make sure your Santa bra isn’t the only thing you’re wearing underneath. If you’re using this soirée as a career-making event, remember the emphasis is on OFFICE, not PARTY. Steer clear of the karaoke, remember the buffet is not all you can eat and sitting on your co-workers knee is a no-no.

There are plenty more holiday party dos and don'ts—what are the main ones on your list? Any embarrassing gaffes you want to cop to so we don't make them this year? -Nicole Williams