At the very least, excess celebration and etiquette mistakes at the company holiday party can become fodder for next day stories and eventually office legend for future parties.
And, according to industry surveys, about 15% of those companies that have hosted holiday parties say that inappropriate employee behavior at holiday parties in the past has impacted an individual's career growth in the company.
Avoid these excessive behaviors and you're likely to be asked to return to next year's party:
1. Excessive Drinking.
This is probably the most common mistake that some employees and managers make during the year end holiday celebration. While many organizations are still offering a full bar, others have begun limiting how much alcohol will be served at the event. Regardless of the company’s decision, it highlights that nobody should over-consume.
Holiday Party Drinking Tips:
Limit drinks with alcohol to a maximum of two.
Avoid mixing drinks.
Drink coffee, tea, soft drinks and water.
2. Excessive Eating.
Party Scenario: Excess grease leftover from a recent spicy chicken wing partially on the napkin stuffed in your pocket - next to the rolled up cocktail meatball napkin - and partially on your free hand (the other hand is wet from a drink). One of the bosses walks up to you, ready to be greeted.
People who attend events understand that food and beverage will be part of the experience. But it's important to be considerate of how others will approach you, and that includes etiquette basics, such as maintaining clean hands and avoiding a mouth full of passed canopies.
Holiday Party Eating Tips:
Do not walk around with multiple hors d'oeuvres.
Do not double dip or return buffet food.
Properly discard napkins, toothpicks, etc.
3. Excessive Talking.
Party Scenario: You meet the Sr. VP of your division for the first time at the party, and share a 15 minute, detailed story about the office move from six months ago.
Most people gravitate and spend time with their colleagues and direct managers. However, try to make an effort to speak informally with as many people at the event as possible. That means limiting the time anyone spends with any single individual or group of guests.
Executives enjoy speaking with employees, and for many, this may be the only interaction. Also, avoid appearing bored by others in attendance.
Holiday Party Conversation Tips:
Limit conversations to 5 minutes.
Avoid in-depth discussions about business.
Thank party hosts and organizers.
4. Excessive Complaining.
Party Scenario: You're still talking with that Sr. VP about the move, but now you're explaining how it causes an extra 8 minutes to your commute.
In addition to keeping conversations brief, event guests should also remember that this is meant to be a time when everyone can celebrate the successes of the year. That means a cheerful mood.
Remember, stories are often heard by others who are nearby, and those people will add their own spin to the story. A stray comment can quickly be taken out of context and become this year's rumor mill, and your name is on it.
5. Excessive Attire.
Party Scenario: In preparation for the company event, a few ladies may choose that form fitting, low cut, sequin dress and highly fragrant new perfume. For a few men, they may think it's the ideal time to show off that shiny suit (which should never have been worn) ... and, oh yea, that strong, new cologne.
Pay attention to the attire description listed on the event invitation. This may be a holiday party, but it's being attended by your coworkers, not personal friends and family.
Women, please try to avoid these 5 holiday fashion mistakes. And, men, consider these wardrobe essentials for formal or semi-formal occasions in advance of the party.
From Rob Hard
http://eventplanning.about.com/od/eventplanningbasics/tp/holiday_party_etiquette.htm
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