Party At The Boss's Expense, Not Your Own - 12/12/2007
There will be the inevitable funny stories, embarrassing situations and soon-to-be-legendary mishaps as the wine flows and inhibitions are overcome.
But while the Christmas knees-up is there to be enjoyed, there are a few basic rules that can help ensure the experience is not one that you'll regret later.
"We've all heard stories about people making fools of themselves at the office Christmas party," said Andy Haywood, managing director of commercial property broker officebroker.com
"These tales may be a source of great amusement, but the truth is that too much alcohol and merriment can affect perceptions and have a negative impact on your career.
"However, the Christmas party can also be the perfect opportunity for you to network and improve other people's opinions of you.
"Handled correctly, it could further your career, not ruin it."
PARTY RULES
WHEN YOU'VE GOT TO GO, YOU'VE GOT TO GO: Even if your boss is named Ebenezer, you should show up at your company office party.
EAT DRINK BUT DON'T BE TOO MERRY: This is probably the most important rule for any office party. Just because people wish you a "merry" Christmas doesn't mean that you have to take them literally. Be aware that alcohol lowers your inhibitions, clouds your judgment and may cause you to do something you regret.
DON'T WEAR THE MINI-SKIRT: Leave low-cut, short and sexy items of clothing in your wardrobe. Not only will you catch a cold but you may also lose the respect of your bosses and co-workers.
WATCH THE CLOCK: Arrive on time and don't be the last one found propping up the bar or asleep in a comer.
TALK THE TALK; Parties are not the time to shrink into the wallpaper. Mingle and introduce yourself to everyone. Have some ice-breakers ready such as "What are you doing for Christmas?" but avoid conversation deflators such as "Do you have kids?" (If the answer is no, there's nowhere to go from there.)
DON'T FLIRT WITH THE BOSS: This is an office party, not a singles bar, and it will not advance your career. Also, make sure you aren't caught in any compromising positions with a hidden camera - trying to explain a slow dance with the managing director may be difficult.
BEWARE OF OFFICE GOSSIP: Under no circumstances should you traffic in office gossip. You never know who is standing behind you.
GRIN AND BEAR IT: The party is being given for your benefit, so be gracious, forget your paltry Christmas bonus and leave your Grinch personality at home for the evening.
LEAVE THE BANK CARD AT HOME: Buying a drunken round for 30 may seem like a good idea at the time but the chances are that while your colleagues will soon forget this act of goodwill, your children won't when Santa doesn't come as a result!
DON'T TALK SHOP: And whatever you do, remember that now is not the time to ask your boss for that long-awaited promotion or pay rise. You won't get it.
