Christmas time is near, the office is decked with holiday cheer and the annual Christmas party is just around the corner. Employees are anxiously waiting to let loose, while management is full of apprehension.
If you want to avoid being called to the human resources office on Monday morning, then listen up. Here are five tips to avoid getting fired at your office Christmas party.
We get it, it’s the holidays and we are all guilty of indulging in various forms of merriment. Reality check - alcohol is the number one cause of work-related incidents at annual office parties. To avoid drama (and a killer hangover), give yourself a two-drink limit and mix in a little water between drinks. Trust us, you won't regret this decision. And if you do want to get wild, that's why after parties were invented.
Do you have a workplace crush, but haven’t acted on it yet? It is probably best to keep it that way. Getting intimate with another co-worker at your office Christmas party is a serious no-no. Keep in mind that your co-workers and management may not take the situation lightly and find it inappropriate to pursue a relationship at a work function. And sadly, with all of the reports about sexual misconduct happening in the work place, it's especially important not to assume your crush feels the same way about you. Keep the environment comfortable for everyone at the party!
Alcohol tends to give us the liquid courage to say and do the things we usually wouldn't. Embarking on a journey of heart-to-hearts or inappropriate jokes with fellow co-workers may lead to oversharing. Don’t get us wrong, casual conversation is great and is definitely encouraged - especially when it comes to getting to know your team - just be aware of your surroundings and the people around you — Save the inappropriate speech for those awkward family dinners.
We've all heard those horror stories and would hate for you to be that guy or girl at your office Christmas party whose date starts acting out of control. Let’s just say the story doesn’t end well for the date or the employee of the office. Choose sensibly and opt for inviting a responsible guest who will work the crowd and lighten the mood with a casual joke or two.
Sorry, but it needed to be said. Mingle, have fun and be safe, but don’t overdo it at the bar. Holiday parties are a great time to get to know everyone at the office and show your fellow team members that you are fun and outgoing. Just remember to keep it professional as you are still at work - even if you aren’t on the clock.
We hope this list helps keep you out of trouble! Happy Holidays!
