How To Behave At The Office Christmas Party
How to behave at the office Christmas party: VideoJug presents a guide on how to survive that inevitable Christmas ritual of the office party. We show you how to behave at the office Christmas party.
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Step 1:
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You will need
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Step 2:
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Turn Up
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However you feel about the situation, office parties are a crucial part of the office dynamic. Think of it like a Sunday afternoon visit to Grandma, even if you don't feel like it, you probably should go. So first up, make sure you go. It's a good opportunity to meet you superiors in a casual environment and a chance for networking with new people. Both great things for career escalation.
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Step 3:
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What to wear
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Find out what everyone else is wearing before the party and match the tone with your outfit. If it's casual dress and you turn up smart, that'll immediately put you on the back foot and make the rest of the evening very uncomfortable also opening you up as an easy target for derision. The same applies the other way round. If you are woman, find a compromise between 'I'm attractive and sexy' and 'Take me seriously, I'm a professional'. Revealing clothing, while fun, is not appropriate around your superiors.
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Step 4:
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Punctuality
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Always arrive on time. This is an office party, not a discotheque. So turning up 'fashionably late' is not an option. Also arriving on time gives you the opportunity to say hello to everyone, and still get out early without seeming rude.
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Step 5:
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How to mingle
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Be sure to acknowledge all your co-workers, and especially your superiors and their associates as this will put you in good stead. Talk to them about work issues, but be positive and complementary. But don't be frightened to talk to them about things outside of work such as the cinema, football, or the dogs. Even if there's someone you really don't like, like Steve from accountants, it's best to have a quick chat with them, and remember that winning smile.
If you're after a promotion, this is a prime opportunity. Corner your boss and raise ideas you've had about increasing productivity and encouraging new clients. But remember he's your boss, keep it casual and humble. Be flattering without brown nosing.
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Step 6:
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Alcohol
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Booze, booze, booze. If there's one thing that can besmirch a reputation, its getting out of control on the liquor. Its important that you join in with the drinking so as not to look like a stiff, but judge the tone carefully. Under no circumstances should you get hammered and tell your boss what you think of him, or anyone else for that matter. The more you've had, the more likely you are to do something you regret. However, if it's a kicking party being led from the top and you're having a good time, you can let your hair down. But be aware of your limits.
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Step 7:
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Romance
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It's that time of year. If you're having an office blowout and Jeanna from HR is there, you may be tempted to make your move. This can go either way. Remember, you will have to see this person at work on monday. Think: Do I really fancy them? Does they like me? How much have I had to drink? Will I regret this in the morning? This is called a reality check. If you fail the reality check, under no circumstances should you make your move. If however, you have strong feelings for that person, this may be the oppourtnity you've been waiting for. But be discreet. You co-workers will gossip as soon as they see anything happen.
On the other hand, you may find yourself be hit on - even by your boss. If this is not to your liking, be tactful. You don't want to damage relationships with your co-workers, so let them down gently. Don't lead anyone on because you're drunk and you feel like it. This will only create problems on Monday, especially if they like you more than you like them.
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Step 8:
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Conclusion
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So to sum up:
1 be punctual
2 dress right
3 Mingle
4 Drink responsibly
5 Tread carefully in the field of Romance
Remember: 'behave right, have a great night'