Holiday Office Partys Do's and Don'ts

• It never looks good to skip out on a work event, even if you aren't "technically" required to be there.
  
• Your absence might go unnoticed by higher-ups, but then again it might not-so why risk it?

• Fashionably late, doesn’t apply to the office party so, don’t arrive 20-minutes before the end to make an appearance.
  
• On the flip side, neither does overtime so there’s no need to extend the party until the wee hours.

• Not so sound like your grandmother, but the office party isn’t the place to flaunt your assets.
  
• Avoid anything too low cut, or scandalously short, because while there might be eight reindeer, the last thing you want to be is

• An open bar can often spell disaster, one too many glasses and it’s easy to forget that the office party is still a business social event and reflects on you when you’re back in the office.
  
• So why risk having to hide in your cubicle? Drink a club soda, or sip something casually-it will be much less painful than the hangover.

• A corporate party offers a great opportunity to casually interact with higher-ups and co-workers from other departments. So why not take advantage?
  
• But before you step from behind your cubicle, make sure to brush up on names. You wouldn’t want to call Dasher, Dancer.

• Unless you’re encouraged to bring a plus one, don’t bring uninvited guests (spouses, children, even clients) to an office party.
  
• The idea is for you to mingle with your co-workers not be stuck under the mistletoe with your date.

Give the gift that gives back

• Don’t have any idea what to buy Mike from accounting. In lieu of an awkward “Secret Santa” exchange, suggest putting your office’s gifting skills towards those in need.
• If you can’t settle on a charity, websites like Donor’s Choose (donorschoose.org) are an easy way to rally your resources.

Remember to say thanks

• Send an email or take the time to write a note to the organizer of the office party.
  
• Tis’ the season, so even if sounds simple, it will make them feel appreciated.

 
To find more tips and answers to etiquette explained, visit the Emily Post Institute online at Emilypostinstitute.com.