At all times remember the word office in office party. There is a level of professionalism still expected of you when you attend an office party.

You don’t want to be remembered as the “Tequila Slammer Dude” or  “Short Skirt Sally” after the party.
Always keep in mind that you’re partying with your colleagues, not your college mates. Ensure that you enhance your image socially and professionally whilst still having a good time.

1. If you are invited with a partner, don’t bring your party animal friend who will damage your reputation with their awful jokes and drinking habits.
2. Attend at all costs. You might hate mingling with office staff after hours but its essential you attend the office party. It signals your commitment to the company and your understanding of the goals of the party. It shows you as a team player.
3. Make sure you adhere to the dress code-don’t come casual smart to a formal function –to get to know more about these click here
4. Don’t walk around barefoot because your feet hurt-make sure you pack a pair of comfortable shoes you can change into later in the evening.
5. Everything in moderation from conversation to alcohol consumption.
6. If a buffet is being served don’t pile up your dish as if its your last meal.

7. At no time is taking extra food home in your Tupperware appropriate at these occasions.
8. If place cards are on the tables, do not shift them around to suit yourself-they have been placed there for a reason.
9. “Open Bar” does not mean knocking back as many shooters as you possibly can. Polishing off the entire wine bottle at your table is not the done thing just because no one else is drinking it.
10. Don’t pressurise others to drink or have another shooter.
11. This is NOT the opportunity to get to know the cute new consultant “really well.” Avoid flirting outrageously or being “too touchy” on or off the dance floor.
12. Don’t leave your reputation on the dance floor by showing off your latest booty shaking moves.
13. You may have a secret crush on that guy in Finance or can’t stand the CFO-this is not the time to let everyone know.
14. Don’t criticize someone’s outfit or complain about the awful food or décor to colleagues. Leave your company complaints, grievances, off-color jokes, and negativity at home.
15. Keep mints or breath fresheners on you so you can continue conversing after you have eaten the fish bites or garlic rolls.
16. When leaving – always thank the host and bid farewell to relevant management. Provide a sincere and specific compliment e.g. “I absolutely loved the sushi bar you displayed – the sushi chef was spectacular.”
17. The next day, send a thank you note/e-mail to the host/management for hosting the party.

“Never be the first to arrive at a party or the last to go home and never; never be both” – David Brown

Equip yourself to become a ’mover and shaker’ in a way that is dynamic and relevant to today’s working world. Our Meal Over Platter corporate workshop includes: 
• How to order meals, wine, Meal manners – practical, role playing of buffet and sit down dinners from showing you how to hold a glass to disposing of olive pips! Networking–the art of small talk  Seating arrangements – who sits where, where is the power seat?
For more information contact us on ask@haydeeantezana.com