Making the Most Out of Your Holiday Office Party

Many of you are planning to attend your upcoming holiday office party. While these events do symbolize good things such as free food, drinks and entertainment, they also present great networking opportunities. Wall Street Journal Online has suggested three phases to keep mind when attending  holiday office parties.

Pre-Party Considerations: Think strategically. Wear an appropriate outfit, something that is sophisticated and classy. Do not just throw on some old outfit; put some consideration into what you’re going to wear. Further, if you are allowed to bring a guest, make sure that they are looking their best as well, for they are a reflection of you. Lastly, always keep in mind that you want to make a good impression, therefore arrive on time, for no one appreciates a late guest.

Party-Time: This is your time to shine, remember that as you make your entrance into the party. Once you’re in, bear in mind that you must keep your alcohol consumption to a moderate level for you will need to be on your toes to make the best impression. As you begin to make your rounds, make it a point to mingle with the boss and with those who you would not normally socialize with at work. During your conversations with the boss, you can even briefly mention a new idea or strategy that you have been trying to throw out for a while but have not had the chance to do so. Even though this is a social event, it shows that your mind is always on stepping up your game at work. Finally, once the night begins to wind down, make sure you leave a respectable hour and that you are not the last one to leave the party.

The After-Party Details: Make sure that you thank the boss and all those who organized the party. Send an email or a card to set you apart from the rest of your colleagues who simply said thank you at the party. Go the extra mile to show that you are truly grateful.

You want to leave the party knowing that you just showed your boss and your colleagues confident, bright, motivated and classy you. Start 2007 on the right path for sustained career growth!

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