THE ULTIMATE OFFICE PARTY SURVIVAL GUIDE

KEEP THE CONGA LINE PG RATED

Whether your bosses are hosting a Xmas party, a NYE party, an EOFY party, or any other party involving acronyms or abbreviations, one thing is for sure: They want you to behave yourself.

As an employee, the opportunity to cut loose and enjoy the evening at the boss’ expense can prove fatal, if not approached with caution.

Here are some tips and tricks to survive the office party with your hard–won reputation and respect intact: Watch It — Perhaps the only real tip, is to watch your alcohol intake.

Feeling jolly and slightly pink around the ears is fine, but slurring, falling and being rude, is not.

Always remember you’re still ‘at work’ while attending an office party and your managers will notice any bad behaviour on your part.

Do you want this party to be remembered when you’re considered for a promotion? Etiquette — Depending on the venue and tone of the party, you will be expected to observe certain norms of behaviour.

Your employer would (hopefully) have kept staff in mind when booking the venue and setting the tone for the party. Whether or not, act appropriately. Not knowing which fork to use, is not the end of the world.

Laughing at a colleague’s joke is encouraged, but talking during the speeches, is not.

Always mind your manners. Don’t Get Too Cosy — The fact that this is a party, does not negate all the normal ethics and values of the company (or society, for that matter).

Getting too cosy with your co–workers, like becoming a bit too ‘handsy’ or overstepping the line of what’s acceptable and what’s personal, can lead to terrible embarrassment or even disciplinary action.

“I was drunk” is no excuse.