Everyone longs for a holiday party, especially after being busy with work all year round, as it is an opportunity to have a great time. But all cautions shouldn’t be let loose at these moments, as you always want to be at your best and in a good mood. Here are some etiquette, which ensures that the fun is not overshadowed in a formal holiday party.
To start with, you should only come to a formal holiday party after receiving an invitation. It can be either written or verbal, received by phone or at a meeting. It is generally considered bad manners to come to a party without an invitation – unless, of course, we are talking about very close friends or relatives who are always glad to your visit. After receiving the invitation, let the organizers know of your availability to let them plan towards the day.
On the day of the party, make sure to arrive about 10 minutes earlier before the party starts. Connect with familiar and strange faces. Ask to know about what they are into, and from there, push the conversation forward. Remember not to make the mistake most people make informal gatherings where they only talk to their colleagues and no one else.
Follow all laid down protocols strictly. From dress code to sitting arrangements, don’t present yourself as unorganized in the open glare. If you need to give a short thank you speech, master your script, and deliver it effortlessly. Don’t stutter, mumble or compose a speech on the go.
Avoid sensitive and controversial topics like politics, money, social problems, and difficulties at work at the party. Remember that in a formal setting, even the most festive event is always business. Don’t get lost and risk accidental mistakes that can ruin your professional reputation overnight.
Finally, when the party ends, and it is time to leave, thank the organizers. They have probably gone out of their way to make sure you had a good time. Tell them how much you appreciate the hospitality. Not only is this the right thing to do, but it also sets you apart from the many employees who don’t.
However, if you need to leave the event early, etiquette necessitates that you speak to the organizers and inform them of the reason for your departure. Thank them for the effort and resources put into the event, and then silently leave the venue without attracting much attention to yourself.
Summarily, take the holiday party as a time to expand your network and build relationships with people of similar interests. Party, merry, and enjoy the event in moderation.
