It’s that time of the year again, and you must be confused with all the electronic invitations piling up in your inbox. It’s time to celebrate the year’s achievements and you know you deserve it. Get-togethers are great opportunities to bond, actually meet the people you see hurriedly crossing the corporate hallway, the faces behind your regular emails. But for introverts, it must take some self-convincing to act on it. This builds up anxiety. Here are some rules of how to build an impression while maneuvering through company blowouts.
Do: Show Up to the Party
Whether you’ve been with the company for a decade or it’s just your first year, show up at holiday parties when you’re invited. Try not to get negative attention with your tangible absence. Converse with colleagues, introduce yourself to those you see in other departments all year but never got the chance to formally meet. These are fun ways of building up your connections and it’s all paid for!
Don’t: Ignore the Party Dress Code
Be sure to abide by the rules set in your invitation. If it specifies a particular theme, get yourself one. Never ignore things that are supposedly easy to follow. You do not want to turn heads by overdressing, nor do you want to be under-dressed either. Imagine trying too hard to impress by wearing a tuxedo at a pajama party. That’s pretty awkward. Follow the dress code.
Do: Converse with Everyone—Including Those You Don’t Know
There’s a good chance that office parties will have many guests; family members, too, may be invited to join in. Have fun and try to mingle anyway. Let them feel welcome even if you think they won’t be back again next year. Parties aren’t just about bonding with colleagues, so be nice to everyone. Don’t be a snob. Encourage open communication, make people feel comfortable especially if you’re the boss.
Don’t: Get Distracted by Technology
Staring at your smartphone while somebody is talking to you is outright disrespectful, even if you’re actually hearing him out. This is something you need to avoid when attending a party with all sorts of personalities around. This gives people the wrong impression, and you’ll definitely miss the chance to build or strengthen your relations with colleagues. It makes them think you find them boring, or they’re not worth your time. Don’t be inconsiderate. Give them your full attention.
Do: Stick to a Drink Maximum
The best thing about holiday parties is that it usually comes with free-flowing beer and wine after dinner. It serves to liven up the occasion, for people to loosen up and enjoy. But take heed of your drinking, especially if you have the tendency to go loco when soused. The key is to be in control the whole time. You don’t want to say things you’ll most certainly regret in the morning or do something stupid that people will never forget.
Don’t: Attend the Party Empty-Handed
You can’t go wrong with presenting a little something to the party host as a sign of your appreciation. It really doesn’t have to be something expensive, in fact, a gift card will do. If the venue is at your boss’ home, try a bottle of red, or a box of chocolates. That should be cool, leaving them a nice impression of you. Network subtly while having fun. Build a positive impression by behaving just right.