The holidays have arrived and office parties are looming on our calendars. Artisan’s annual holiday luncheon is today, as a matter of fact. As much as we want everyone to have a great time at these festive events, we all know someone who has embarrassed themselves by making some unfortunate choices. Instead of sending a wish list to Santa this year, we would like to send you our list of ways to make your holiday office party what it should be–fun and successful.
- Dress up–A little or a lot, depending on the specific event. Choose a festive accessory and do keep professionalism in mind.
- Think ahead–Take the time to remind yourself of the names of co-workers’ spouses and children. Ask about activities they or their families like outside of work. Have a brief story ready for when you are asked, “How’s it going?”
- Ask before you take photos–If you love to post pictures of life events on social media and want to take some here, make sure you have permission first unless you are the company’s Social Media Manager, in which case they’re probably used to you!
- Keep it positive–The office holiday party is not the place for gossip or badmouthing. Happy holidays is the theme of the day.
- Say thanks–The person in charge of the party has probably been under a lot of stress about it being perfect. Make sure to thank him or her for a lovely time.
Office parties are an opportunity to get to know the people in your company who may not be in your department, strengthen bonds within your team and make human connections that you don’t have time for during working hours. I know I’m looking forward to getting together with my Artisan colleagues today. Everyone at Artisan hopes that you have as much fun great time at your professional holiday gatherings as your personal ones.
Wendy Stackhouse, for Artisan Creative