Whether you’re rearing up for your office Christmas party, or one of those people who just want to get it done and dusted, because lets face it, who wants to spend more time with colleagues you can’t stand,  there’s no denying that there are rules to follow when attending the office Christmas party.
(many of which I did not follow myself this year smh – just picture me dabbing on the dance floor well after midnight 🚫)

I consider myself someone who’s always up for a party, but there have been many a time when I’ve fully embarrassed myself and woken up with flashbacks and mixed emotions thinking – why the hell would I do that?… so I thought this would be a fun way of letting you all in on polite party etiquette to definitely do and major faux pas to avoid.

So before you head out on your office party or get together before the New Year remember these golden rules…

Do pace yourself – I’m the type of person who always says – I’m only staying for one, just to show my face – then 12am strikes and I’m the life of the party. NO NO NO NO NO! Just because there’s a free tab at the bar, doesn’t mean you have to drink away. So pace yourself, look classy and elegant and have fun! No wants to see you stumble home it’s just not a good look.

Don’t wear anything too daring – Everyone wants to look good and show how different and  glamourous they can look outside of office hours, but it doesn’t mean you have to show Kevin from IT what you’ve had for brekkie, lunch and dinner. Have in mind office party not your besties birthday bash.

Do socialise with other departments. What I love about Office Christmas parties is that it gives you the chance to socialise and interact with other departments. Plus, if you’re new to the team like I am, it’s a great opportunity to make some new friends.

Don’t be afraid to have a good time. It’s is actually OK to have fun, that’s the point of a shindig right?! It’s a great chance to see people out of action, relaxed and at an event where everyone genuinely wants to have fun. So be yourself and let your personality shine!

Don’t get drunk. Leading back to my first point – pace yourself. If your workplace has been clever and  decided to host your Christmas party mid-week, you really have to watch how much you’re consuming, take advantage of the free bar if you have one, but just remember you can’t pull a sickie…because EVERYONE knows that old chestnut lol

Don’t get handsy. We’ve all had a lil’ office crush. But before you decide to pounce at the ‘perfect’ moment, make sure it’s mutual and don’t get too handsy with them either. reporting to the HR office is like sitting on the naughty step, not cool and highly embarrassing.

Do & Don’t Avoid the ‘Big Dawgs’. This is a controversial one. But, I think it depends on your personality. It’s great to know your more senior counterparts, and it could even help your career progression, however, the office Christmas party is not the place to discuss a how Shauna pissed you off today or that you’d appreciate a pay rise lol. Just remember they’ll remember what you say and how you say it well after the nights over.

Hope this put a smile on your face. Do you have any top tips to share on how to survive your workplace Christmas party? Let me know in the comments x