The Friday Five: Holiday Party Edition

Five tips for holiday office parties

Holiday party season is upon us, PR girls! While I love any reason to don a few sparkly things, eat some free food & hang out a while, office holiday parties should be handled with care.

1. Dress appropriately.

For the most part, your normal workplace dress code still applies at holiday parties, but you can have a little fun with it now. Make sure that your outfit is of appropriate length if it’s a dress or skirt and isn’t too low-cut or revealing. Be sure to err on the conservative side, especially if alcohol will be available. Make your outfit festive by opting for a cocktail dress with subtle sparkle, glitzy accessories, jewel tones or a sparkly top under a blazer.

2. Do not overindulge.

You may be tempted, especially if it’s an open bar and buffet dinner, but overindulging is both inappropriate and rude. Limit your cocktails, make sure you’re not drinking on an empty stomach and don’t stuff your face like you don’t know where your next meal is coming from. Always mind your manners, ladies.

3. Do not bring a “plus one.”

Sure you may want to bring your beau to the holiday party to show him off, but unless you’ve been told it’s ok, arrange to meet him for a drink afterwards instead. You and your coworkers may be letting your hair down a bit and enjoying yourselves, but a holiday party is still kind of work. If the invitation was extended to SOs, great! Still stick to work-appropriate behavior and check the PDA at the door. However, if you’re in a new or casual relationship, it’s best to attend a work party stag, even if the invitation included a date.

4. Be social.

Holiday parties are all about bringing people together. Mingle, introduce yourself to people you may not have had the chance to meet yet & catch up with coworkers you don’t see every day. Make a good impression by keeping a smile on and being on your best behavior.

5. Do not go home with a coworker.

I feel like this one should be a no-brainer. Don’t go home with anyone, under any circumstances. A holiday party is not a Friday night at the club and it is not a prime place for a hookup. Make your own arrangements to get home safely beforehand and stick to them to ensure you don’t become office gossip. Remember – you will have to see these people again.

What are your do’s and don’t’s for office festivities?