Party Like A Professional

Workplace and professional association gatherings or socials are not the most ideal place to let loose, there are rules of behavior that you should follow in order to maintain professionalism and dignity after the gathering is over.

1. View a workplace/professional association gathering or social as a business function and act accordingly. Yes, it is an opportunity to socialize with colleagues in a casual setting, but be careful to be friendly but not too familiar with those at the gathering, especially with superiors and persons in powerful positions, and always be mindful to act with courtesy and respect.

2. If your schedule permits, it's always advisable to attend a workplace party or social for employees. Even if you would rather be anywhere else, make an appearance at a business holiday party. You are not obligated to stay all evening, but your absence will be noticed, and the noticed absence reads like "non-team" oriented, "not interested" in spending time with collegues.

3. Know the policy on guests. Be sure to check ahead of time whether spouses or dates are welcome at the workplace party or social, since often these affairs are for employees only.

4. Dress appropriately. No matter how hot you look in the low-cut sheathe and spike heels that you wear for clubbing, a workplace party or social is not the place to show it off. Instead, opt for a more dignified, low-key look so that you will be remembered for your good taste not your revealing attire. When in doubt, ask someone whose judgment you trust what is appropriate dress for the workplace party or social, or check with your host.

5. Be sure to greet and thank your host or the individual responsible for planning the gathering. Chat briefly (you can't go wrong with a compliment about some aspect of the social, such as the food, the band, or the décor) and then move on.

6. Enjoy the food and drink but don't overindulge. Even if there is an open bar, limit your intake of alcohol and don't pile your plate with excess amounts of the most expensive items on the buffet—a mountain of jumbo shrimp on your plate will be noticed and not in a positive way. Also, have a back-up plan in case, despite your best efforts, you find that you have had too much to drink. Arrange for a designated driver, call a cab or reserve a room at a nearby hotel.

Read more at Suite101: Office Party Etiquette: Party Like a Professional http://workplaceculture.suite101.com/article.cfm/office_party_etiquette#ixzz0fRSD1jys