8 DONT’s at a business party

Whoa! I feel nice, like sugar and spice
I feel nice, like sugar and spice
So nice, so nice, I got you
~James Brown~

A party at your working place might very well turn out to be really boring. However, it can also be a very good opportunity to have fun or it can be very useful – creating new relationships with coworkers is almost always a good thing. Still, be careful about having TOO much fun; you don’t want to be that drunk guy dancing on the table, nor the girl stripping by the boss! If you’re not sure what to do in order to avoid embarrassing situations, these following tips are definitely a good start:

1. Don’t drink too much!

Photo by steele_chas

Alcohol will make you lose your inhibitions and will change your behavior. Even if you think it can’t affect you a glass of wine or a cocktail should be enough. Remember, perception is everything so you should not create a bad impression about yourself!

2. Be careful about interactions!

Even if a party might show you another side of your colleagues, try to ignore the new feelings as they can lead to disaster! Also try not to act provocative in order to be respected. If you’re in a … really good relationship with a coworker of the opposite sex, displaying yourself at your workplace is not something you’d want to do, especially at a party.

3. Don’t wear provocative clothes!

If you would not wear something on another occasion then don’t wear it now. Be elegant and try to attract attention only by your style and not by bad taste. Also, especially for women, provocative clothes at business parties always create an unwanted image for you.
4. Be careful about what you say!

Even if the atmosphere might become relaxed don’t reveal too much in order not to find yourself later in an embarrassing situation. Keep in mind that while a part of your colleagues are your friends, others may not understand or appreciate your humor.

5. Try to avoid vulgar jokes

Also avoid inappropriate language no matter how fun it may seem to you! It will not bring you any advantage.

6. Avoid gossiping!

If someone is not there it does not mean that you have the right to talk about him or her! Firstly, it’s not a nice thing to do and secondly, one of that person’s friends may hear you!

7. Don’t bring uninvited guests!

Most times, these parties are only for the employees so it’s best to ask before taking someone with you. Keep in mind, the key word in a business party is business, not party!

8. Be careful about who you invite!

If you are allowed to bring someone choose carefully so that your guest will be civilized and will follow the same rules you do!

These simple rules should be enough to offer you a very pleasant evening. And who knows? Maybe creating a good impression at a party may offer you further advantages. This sort of party is not supposed to be wild, and it could be very important for your future or career.…