As the Christmas specials and decorations go up we know that the end of the year is fast approaching and that there are numerous office parties and year end function around the corner.

Attending an office party or year end function is a wonderful way to engage, network and to get to know your colleagues better in a relaxed and non-work environment.

Although these events provide the perfect platform for you to show another side of yourself, it is still a work function and you still need to behave respectably.

Many, from interns, juniors to the superior management fall into the trap of getting too comfortable, imbibing too much and behaving in a less than desirable manner.

Apart from tarnishing your name in front of your colleagues and leaders, bad behaviour at the year-end office function can also make your return to work awkward and, legally, you will also be able to get a warning or even fired as the event is still seen as a work event where you are still considered to be on duty.

 

The Top 10 Year End Function Do’s and Don’ts:

 

1. Complete your work first

We know that these types of events are always anticipated and that people are eager to attend, but that doesn’t mean that you should shrug off your work responsibilities. If you have a significant deadline looming or if your team or boss need something from you, make sure it is completed on time and before you head off to the event. If you are going to be late, be courteous and let your colleagues or the host know and let them know what time they can expect you.

 

2. Don’t skip the party

Unless you have other plans that can’t be missed or a legitimate excuse to not attend the party and you express this explicitly upon receiving the invite; you should attend your year-end function. Non-participation or attendance will make you look like you’re not committed to the company, the cause, and your team. Although it is a social event, your absence will still be felt and noted by those in higher management.

 

3. Dress code

Although the office party generally takes place out of office hours it doesn’t mean that you have to dress for out of office. It is okay to take your clothes up a notch for the occasion but it should still be professional, tasteful and appropriate. This is for men and women alike.

 

4. Your plus one

These days it is common for companies to allow employees to bring their spouses, partners or a date to year-end functions. Make sure that the person you choose to bring along is aware of the company culture, the dress code, the taboo topics and the general behaviour that is accepted. Your partner or plus one is an extension of yourself and their behaviour will be a reflection of you.

 

5. Don’t look bored and behave anti-socially 

For some, attending the year end function or office party is just a tick box exercise and they really aren’t there by choice. This is a terrible attitude to have but sometimes it can’t be helped. If you are one of those people who dreads the year-end office function, at least try to act excited and engaged. Don’t frown, cross your arms, yawn or slouch. Your body language can express more than your words and, if you appear to be bored and disconnected, it is as bad as not attending. If you aren’t enjoying yourself or are bored, it’s probably because you have nobody to talk to. Don’t sit in a corner by yourself and play on your phone. Work the room and go and get to know your colleagues better; this is the point of these events. The event may be boring, but your levels of boredom will be because of your lack of participation more than anything else.

 

6. Don’t forget to line that stomach and stay sober 

Not all office parties and year end function involve alcohol, but the majority of them do. If you are planning on drinking at your year-end function make sure that you have something to eat before the event or that you eat before you head on over to the open bar. Be sure not to look too excited for the open bar and keep it classy. Don’t take advantage just because it is free, only drink what you can handle. If your colleagues are forcing you to drink and you are feeling pressured, you could sip on water and pretend that it is Vodka and Sprite. Peer pressure when it comes to drinking is an often occurrence, especially from the seniors in the company. Know your limits for alcohol intake, pace yourself and stop when you need to; you are still on duty, and you are still in a professional setting and you need to maintain proper decorum.

 

7. Talking game plan 

The office party is often a time for all levels of management and staff to mingle. Ground level staff have the opportunity to network with those on top and to make an impression on the big bosses. As Voltaire once said, ‘One speaks badly when one has nothing to say.’ Don’t talk shop but make sure that you are well read on current events, the happenings of your industry and sports. Avoid religion and politics as those types of conversations could get out of hand and personal. Try not to overshare with your colleagues and avoid talking about yourself too much. Ask questions that are polite and courteous, but not invasive. Asking your colleagues questions like what they have planned for the upcoming holidays and how their kids are faring is acceptable, but asking them about their relationship with their partner is out of line.

 

8. Posting images on social media 

These days people can’t just take in and embrace the moment without taking photos. They live by the motto, ‘If there aren’t any photos, it didn’t happen’. When taking photos at year-end events make sure that those in the picture don’t mind it being posted on social media, that they aren’t drinking or in an awkward position and that your captions aren’t inappropriate. Remember that even though you may be posting from your personal account you are still representing your company and brand.

 

9. Acknowledge and thank the organizers 

Before leaving the event, find the person who planned and arranged it and thank them for the lovely event. If you are unable to find them be sure to send them a note or email expressing your gratitude.

 

10. Be the first one at work the next day 

If the party ended late and you are feeling a bit worse for wear, don’t let it show. Put an alarm on and get to work on time the next day. Don’t use the office party as an excuse to slack the next day. This behaviour shows commitment, dedication, and discipline.

 

Now that you know how to behave at your next year end function, why not start planning your next one with us?