Get your glad rags ready because it’s almost time for the office Christmas party. But before you toast to the year ahead read our survival guide first. After all, you want to make sure that you keep your job in 2019!
Turn up
Don’t be the office Grinch. Sure, you would rather watch cheesy holiday films on Netflix or go out with your real friends but office Christmas parties are a great way to get to know your colleagues. Once you get over the initial awkwardness, who knows, you might even enjoy yourself.
Do your research
Don’t be afraid to ask your more experienced colleagues for advice on things like appropriate secret Santa gifts and the party dress code. It’s always a good idea to get a second opinion so there are no awkward moments on the night.
Keep your opinions to yourself
Now is not the time to complain about your terrible salary or lack of annual leave. If you can’t rein in your opinions then you should avoid your boss on the night. Trust me, the appropriate time to make a complaint is not while ”Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” is playing.
Drink in moderation
I don’t want to sound like the fun police but it’s important that you don’t overdo it at your office party. Alcohol will lower your inhibitions so drink in moderation. Otherwise, some drunken mistakes might haunt you into the new year.
Don’t act on that office romance
The Christmas party is not the place to confess your undying love for Marcus in sales. You could face rejection, humiliation or perhaps even a complaint to HR. Keep things above board and only flirt outside of office hours.
Mingle
Office parties are a great way for you to get to know your colleagues. Don’t just hang out at the bar with the same people that you talk to every day. Make an effort to introduce yourself to at least three new people. Go on, bite the bullet!
Ditch the work chat
Don’t be a bore. No one wants to talk about projections for Q1 or the huge international deal that was just closed. Liven things up a bit. Get to know your colleagues on a personal level. Just don’t pry, Steve in IT probably doesn’t want to talk about his pending divorce. Read the crowd.
