Keep it real at your Christmas party

The long-awaited December holidays have arrived.

Before all takes flight, you need to face your upcoming annual office Christmas party.

We all know these parties could get a bit awkward regarding where to actually draw the line between professionalism and a party – and making a fool of yourself should be avoided at all costs.

If you are feeling a bit unsure on how to handle your party, don’t worry, here are some tips according to the Wiki How to do anything website on how to keep your cool but still have a blast.

Prepare yourself mentally and show up

The first rule is to ensure you have the right mindset before you pitch up. You have to accept the fact that this party forms part of what is expected of you and you might have to talk to people you do not necessarily get along with. The website explained, “It’s a good opportunity to meet your superiors in a casual environment and a chance for networking with new people. Both are great things for career escalation.”

Arrange for a friend to call you at a set time.

This is your best way to get a free ticket out of there. Excuse yourself from the conversation you are in and take the call where others can see you are on the phone but can not hear your conversation. A winner excuse is that your friend’s car broke down or is locked out of the apartment and you have the keys.

Decide what to wear

Be sure you dress accordingly as there is nothing more embarrassing than being either over- or underdressed. Talk to your colleges in advance and find out what the vibe is before you pitch up with a summer dress and the rest are in formals. Women be careful – although it increases your confidence when you know you look sexy, remember that you need to stay professional.

Arrive on time

Turning up ‘fashionably late’ is cool when you are rolling into a party and know everybody has been anticipating your arrival but, it’s not something to do at an office party. Besides the fact that turning up late would be seen as rude, you need to keep in mind the earlier you arrive the earlier you can leave, knowing you at least showed face and greeted all the important people.

Mingle

This is the perfect time to get to know your colleagues in a more personal way. Chat about hobbies, sports, music and interests to find out more about the people you work with daily. It is also a great opportunity to speak to the people you dislike as you might just discover something likeable about them.

Drink responsibly

Remember at all times you are being observed by your colleagues and more importantly, your boss. You do not want to create a nasty reputation that will raise some doubts about you. Even though it is a social event, technically you are still at work. If you really want to get hammered, rather head somewhere else after the function but do not do it at the party. Do not be uptight and not touch a drop, but be sure you do not become a little too chatty and spill the beans of what you truly think of the company. Even though your opinion might create a laugh at the party, your words will not be forgotten and could harm your future prospects in the company.

Be tactful and careful about declaring your undying romantic intentions

Think carefully before you simply hook up with someone at work, especially if you are not really interested them. You need to remember you will have to face this person back at work and need to decide in advance if it’s really something worth doing or whether it’s just going to create unwanted vibes in the office.

Be as discreet as possible if you are serious about it otherwise you will become the new topic of gossip at work – without a doubt.

Also, there is always a possibility of being accused of sexual harassment. So, do not open a can of worms.

Help others

If you realise one of your colleagues might be overdoing it, advise them to take a break before they make a fool of themselves.

Explain to them what their actions look like to others or, if they are too drunk to discuss the pros and cons of their actions, call a cab and send them home.

They will thank you in the morning.