9 Tips On How To Survive Your Company's Holiday Party Without Looking Like An Idiot

With the holiday season around the corner, your company may be planning a party to celebrate the end of a hardworking year.

"People like to work with people they know so take this opportunity to let down your hair a little," said Helene Wasserman, an attorney for Littler, an international firm focused exclusively on labor and employment laws.

But with the music, food, alcohol and jolly cheer, it's easy to forget that a company's holiday party is still a business function.

According to Wasserman, it's not uncommon to get harassment claims around the holiday season. She blames it on the alcohol.

"The best way to survive is to remember that you're still at work and the rules still apply," Wasserman told us. "If you're talking to your boss and a drink is in your hand, he's still your boss."

Alcohol or no alcohol, we compiled some tips from Wasserman and the U.S. Department of Labor to help you survive your office party — and keep your job. 

Don't even think about skipping the party

While you work away all year, spending even more hours with your co-workers might not sound too fun, but blowing off an office soiree is not the best choice to make.

To show that you're committed to the company, make sure you show up for at least 30 minutes. Always assume company gatherings are "must attend" events.

Source: Fox News

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Don't forget that company's dress, behavior and harassment policies still apply — even if its off-site

Source: U.S. Department of Labor

Don't conduct business at the party

In other words, don't ask about that new position opening up or  if you're eligible for a raise. It's tacky. Since it's an office event, it's obvious that some business-related conversations will come up, but don't come to the party with an agenda.

Also, try to avoid all gossiping about your co-workers.

Being in a social environment may make you feel like its appropriate — don't listen to this little voice.

Source: WOUR and Wasserman

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See Also:

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