It’s that time of year yet again, the corporate
party. Whether it’s to celebrate the holidays or for no other reason than that
you all deserve it, navigating a party where your bosses are all present isn’t
always easy. While most of it should be common sense (best not to show off your
break-dancing skills), there are probably a few dos and don’ts that you haven’t
thought of before.
Do Dress
Professionally
While a corporate party is a great chance
to have a laugh with your colleagues and let off some steam, it’s still corporate. Typically, the dress code is business casual, so try your best to stick to that. Your boss doesn't need to see the neon paint just yet.
Don’t Be
a No-Show
If you’ve said you’re going to be there,
and RSVP’d, then you need to turn up unless you have a really good excuse. The
thought of a corporate party isn’t for everyone, but they are never as bad as
your brain makes them out to be, and you’re bound to have a good time with the
rest of your colleagues. Even if you’re not really feeling it, it’s important
that you are seen to go to these events.
Do Keep
an Eye on What You Drink
When the boss is getting the rounds in, it can be easy to over indulge. However, be sure to keep to within your limits, even if it does mean you’re the only one not doing shots. You will thank yourself for it the next day, especially when the videos of the dance floor are revealed.
Don’t Talk
about Work
Instead of spending your free time talking about work, take this chance to get to know some of your colleagues that you don’t work closely with and ask them about their lives. Everyone is there to try and let off a little steam and network with the rest of the company - unless you're asked a question, keep the work chat to a minimum.
Do Enjoy
Yourself
Get on the dance floor and show off your moves, join in with karaoke and get chatting to as many people as possible - be sure to not just stick with the few people that you know. After all, what better time to be social? A corporate party is a place to let your hair down and forget about the stresses of work – everyone else is there for the exact same reason.
Don’t Gossip
While a party is the perfect place to catch
up with colleagues, don’t engage in any gossip about co-workers. Not only is it
definitely not the place, but it’s unprofessional. We all know that half of the
rumours that circulate a company are only half true, and the rest are just
outright false. A corporate party is not the time or the place to get caught spreading
rumours by the wrong person, so the best thing to do is to not engage.
Do Know
How You’re Getting Home
There are loads of corporate venues for hire in London, but getting home isn’t always easy. Make sure that you know in advance if your company is ordering taxis, or if you’re all to make your own way back.
Don’t Overstay
Your Welcome
Leave at a sensible time when things seem to be winding down, and make sure that you say your goodbyes to everyone that matters. If you do have to go early, make sure you apologise and give an explanation.
Do Turn
Up the Next Day
Regardless of how great the evening was, make sure that the next day, you still turn up for work. The worst thing you can do is call in sick - so instead, get out of bed, head for the shower, and put on your best smile.
Don’t Forget
to Thank the Organisers
It’s always best to do this the night of the party, but if you don’t get the chance, seek them out the next day. A lot of effort goes into organising a corporate party, from hiring the venue to sending out the invites, and so a thank you will go a long way. Show the organisers that you appreciate them and let them know that they did a good job. With plenty of options available, including private venues and top venues in areas like that surrounding the iconic St. Paul, a thoughtful gesture will be warmly received.
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