The work holiday party is a time-honored tradition where festive spirits meet professional boundaries. It’s an event that weaves together the joy of the season with the nuances of office dynamics.
Navigating this blend can feel like a tightrope walk. You want to revel in the festivities, but a voice in the back of your mind reminds you of the professional setting. This is where the art of etiquette comes in — knowing what to do and, more importantly, what not to do can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll unpack the top dos and don’ts to help you shine at your next work holiday party, ensuring your memories are filled with cheer, not career faux pas. Let’s dive in and turn potential pitfalls into opportunities for positive connections.
1. Do: Dress Appropriately
The question of what to wear to a work holiday party can be puzzling. It’s like choosing an outfit for a professional meeting and a friendly get-together, all in one. The key? Balance. An outfit that’s too casual might seem out of place, while something too formal can feel stiff in a party setting.
Your choice of attire should reflect both the festivity of the occasion and the professional setting. A blazer with a touch of sparkle or a classic dress with festive accessories might just be the perfect combo.
Think of your outfit as a reflection of your professional image, just sprinkled with holiday joy.
2. Don’t: Bring Uninvited Guests
Unless the invitation specifically allows for a plus one or more, it’s best to attend the event solo.
“Bringing uninvited guests can cause logistical issues and may be frowned upon,” warns Titania Jordan, CMO of Bark Technologies, a company known for their kids smart watch with built-in safety features, the Bark Watch. “Respect the boundaries set by the organizers.”
If in doubt, it’s always better to ask the party planners beforehand than to assume it’s okay to bring extra guests.
3. Do: Engage in Welcoming Conversations
Work parties are excellent for mingling, but it’s important to choose your conversation topics wisely. The goal is to be engaging — and inclusive.
“Engaging in light, universally inviting discussions can boost your professional image and build rapport,” suggests Shaunak Amin, CEO and Co-Founder of Stadium. “Focus on topics that most people can relate to, like holiday traditions, travel plans, or favorite seasonal movies. This approach helps you connect on a personal level without veering into sensitive areas.”
It’s all about creating an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable and welcomed.
4. Don’t: Discuss Controversial or Sensitive Topics
While it might be tempting to gossip about the latest news or office politics, a work party isn’t the place for it. Controversial topics can quickly turn a light-hearted event into an uncomfortable one.
Justin Soleimani, Co-Founder of Tumble, a company that specializes in washable rugs, cautions, “Steer clear of controversial subjects to maintain a comfortable environment for everyone. If you find yourself in a conversation that’s heading into risky territory, politely steer it back to safer topics.”
Think of the party as a neutral zone where the focus is on celebration and camaraderie — not debates or sensitive issues.
5. Do: Network Respectfully
Networking at a holiday party is a subtle art. It’s a chance to build connections, but the key is to keep it natural and respectful.
Brianna Bitton, Co-Founder of O Positiv, a company known for their MENO menopause supplements, recommends, “A holiday party is a great opportunity for networking, but remember to keep it respectful and genuine. Engage in meaningful conversations without an overt agenda.”
It’s not about collecting business cards; it’s about forming authentic connections that could naturally extend into the professional realm. A casual chat by the punch bowl might lead to a collaborative project in the future — let it happen organically.
6. Don’t: Use the Party Solely for Personal Gain
On the other hand, it’s important not to view the holiday party as a stepping stone for your career.
Madeline Edwards, Head of Content at Dose, a company known for their liver health supplements, warns, “While networking is valuable, focusing solely on self-promotion can be off-putting. It’s a party — not a job fair.”
If you’re only talking to people based on what they can do for you, it could backfire. Instead, focus on building relationships based on mutual interests and respect. Remember, the impressions you leave at the yearly holiday party can have lasting effects on your workplace relationships.
7. Do: Participate in Activities
Engaging in party activities offers more than entertainment — it provides an opportunity to present yourself in a new light to your colleagues. Whether you contribute to a team trivia challenge or snap photos in a holiday-themed booth, your participation is a testament to your camaraderie and approachability.
“Actively taking part in the festivities is a great way to express your team spirit,” says Greg Hannley, Founder and CEO of Soba Mesa. “Embrace these shared experiences as opportunities to bond with your team.”
Even if you’re not typically the first to jump into party games, your involvement, whether active or as a supportive observer, leaves a lasting, positive impression.
8. Don’t: Pressure Others To Participate
Taking part in the activities is great, but it’s equally important to respect others’ choices. Not everyone feels comfortable participating in reindeer games — and that’s okay.
Bob Craycraft, CEO of Cadence Petroleum points out, “Respect each person’s choice about participating in activities. Encouraging your colleagues is fine, but understand where encouragement ends and pressure begins.”
The aim is to make the holiday party enjoyable for everyone, which sometimes means allowing people to engage at their own pace.
9. Do: Be Mindful of Your Body Language
Non-verbal communication at a work party can deliver messages just as significant, if not more so, than verbal exchanges.
Charalambos A. Vlachoutsicos, an Adjunct Professor at Athens University of Economics and Business in Greece says to consider the impact of your body language. “Besides our choice of words and the volume and tone of a voice, gestures, posture, and facial expressions all convey powerful messages to the people we are talking to,” he notes. A friendly nod, a relaxed stance, or a genuine smile can create a welcoming vibe.
Avoid behaviors like constantly glancing at your phone or closed-off body language, which might suggest disinterest. A little self-awareness in how you carry yourself can foster a positive and engaging atmosphere for everyone.
10. Don’t: Forget You’re at a Work Event
It’s easy to get swept up in the festive atmosphere, but keep in mind that you’re still at a work-related function.
Emily Greenfield, Director of Ecommerce at Mac Duggal, a company known for their mother of the bride dresses reminds us, “Even in a party atmosphere, remember that it’s a professional event and conduct yourself accordingly. It’s important to avoid behaviors you wouldn’t exhibit in the office.”
It’s a time to relax and enjoy within the boundaries of professional decorum. Your actions at the party can impact your professional reputation, so it’s wise to be mindful of how you present yourself.
11. Do: Show Appreciation to the Organizers
Behind every successful work party, there’s a team of organizers who put in a lot of effort to make it happen. Showing appreciation for their hard work can go a long way.
Cody Candee, Founder and CEO of Bounce suggests, “A simple ‘thank you’ to the party organizers can be a meaningful gesture. Acknowledging their efforts shows your gratitude and reflects your ability to recognize others’ hard work.”
It’s a small act that can enhance your relationships within the workplace.
12. Don’t: Turn the Party into a Business Meeting
While it’s natural for office chatter to spill into party conversations, it’s important to remember that an office party is a chance to relax and socialize, not just an extension of the workday.
“Drinking and gossiping are bad, but so is showing up to the party with your work hat on. Nobody wants to discuss those upcoming project goals or the latest management changes,” advises Justin Lavelle, Chief Communications Officer at PeopleLooker.com.
Keep the mood light and festive. After the party, there will be plenty of time to get back to business matters.
13. Do: Be Inclusive in Your Interactions
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A work holiday party is an opportunity to build bridges across different departments and levels within your organization.
“Making an effort to interact with a wide range of colleagues can promote a more inclusive and friendly workplace,” says George Fraguio, Vice President of Bridge Lending at Vaster. “Try to engage with people you don’t regularly interact with at work.”
This not only broadens your network but also helps build a more cohesive and understanding work environment.
14. Do: Follow Up After the Event
The end of the party doesn’t have to mean the end of the connections you’ve made.
A quick follow-up message or email to new acquaintances can solidify the relationships started at the party. It can be as simple as saying you enjoyed the conversation and look forward to chatting more in the future.
This small gesture can turn a casual party interaction into a meaningful professional relationship.
Enjoy Your Holiday Party — Respectfully
When it comes to work holiday party etiquette, join in the fun, engage in thoughtful conversation, build genuine relationships, and, most importantly, remember to be yourself while respecting the professional context. Here’s to creating happy, respectful, and valuable holiday memories with your colleagues!
