10 Office Party Etiquette Tips

10 Office Party Etiquette Tips10 Office Party Etiquette TipsWhen its time for an office party, do you make an appearance, make a scene or make other plans? Even if your attendance is leid mandatory, the first piece of office party etiquette is to accept the invitation.A new OfficeTeam survey shows that 93 percent of companies will host holiday festivities this year. Nearly half (48 percent) of the seasonal soirees will take place at the company, and aleidher 48 percent will be off-site. Do workers have to show up? Sixty-six percent of managers say the unwritten rule is yes.No matter if youre an executive sending an invitation, an employee or a consultant sending an RSVP, try your best to remember your office party etiquette. If your conduct gets you pegged as one to watch, make sure its for the right reasons.To help you out, well give you 10 less-than-acceptable behaviors so you can have a great time without sending your career off-track. Follow the right office party etiquette by av oiding the following1. Talking shop til they dropEven though its a great opportunity for quality time with colleagues, an office party should be about mingling, not brainstorming. Be aware of peoples subtle cues if theyre looking to make a graceful exit from too much shop talk.2. Bringing everyone downAn office party is not the place to unload your bah-humbug attitude, complain about injustice or wallow in woe. Keep a cheery disposition and offer upbeat discussion topics.FIND YOUR NEXT JOB3. Stirring up controversySteer clear of contentious issues involving politics or religion. Opt for lighter fare instead, like your favorite restaurants, good books, interesting travel destinations or entertainment news.4. Drinking too much eggnogDont overindulge in alcoholic beverages at the open bar. That old adage is true Loose lips sink ships, or in this case, careers. When your judgment is impaired, youre more likely to do or say something that youre sure to regret, but your boss is sure to re member.5. Showing up starvingEating a bite beforehand will help you focus your attention on those around you, rather than on the buffet table.6. Violating the dress codeFind out whats expected in terms of holiday attire, and stick with it. Avoid clothing or accessories that are overly festive or revealing.7. Gossiping and gawkingThe office party may look and feel social, but its still a business function. If youre pointing fingers or intruding on someones personal space, youre not only damaging your teams morale, you may also be violating your companys harassment policies.8. Standing in the cornerUse the opportunity to mingle with other people outside your other circle. Branch out and network with support staff, employees from other departments and executives.9. Letting your plus one be a negativeIf guests are allowed, choose wisely. Remember, your dates behavior is a reflection on you.10. Staying until the lights go outMake your exit with the bulk of the crowd. Dont be the first or brde to leave.Any more office party etiquette?Show your appreciation to the host and others who worked on the event by thanking them in person or sending them a note afterward.As for holiday gift giving, its optional. The survey shows more than half of workers (58 percent) hand out year-end presents. Half of them give gifts to coworkers, and 35 percent give to their boss. Tags