Work It Out... The Office Christmas Party
It's that time of year again, where you're forced to go out and humiliate yourself with people you wouldn't normally be caught dead with and probably don't like. However the office Christmas party, is a must, even if you don't feel like it, you must go. But be warned although the office party can be a good opportunity to chat to your peers in a casual environment it is also a career minefield. Here's how Base London suggest you tackle...The Office Christmas Party.
When Should I Get There.
This is not the place to be fashionably late, Arriving on time gives you the opportunity to say hello to everyone and get out without seeming rude.
What Should I Wear?
Try and gauge what the tone of the party is, if it's casual then you don't want to turn up smart, you'll just end up becoming a target for banter. However be stylish, unless it's a black tie affair, wear a decent shirt and a good pair of jeans, paired with a smart Base London loafer. If you want put on a cool looking tie and jacket to complete the look.
Mingling.
Sure, Brian from accounts is possibly the most boring person aroundbut make sure you chat to him, talk to everyone. It's a party and you're not in the office, although work related topics are a good conversation starter, talk about something else, and keep smiling even if you aren't enjoying the story about his latest caravan adventure. Boozing.Office parties often serve up free booze, all good eh? Just remember where you are and who you're with. Let your hair down but know your limits.
Romance
Check out our earlier section on dealing with office romances. However the Christmas party is often where most office romances start, think about it, everyone's boozy, that bird in the office that you all rate is all over you, will you?
Before you do...think...what's the next day in the office going to be like? Will you both regret it? To avoid the awkwardness don't, or if you do, be very discreet otherwise you'll fall victim of the office gossip mill.
