Work parties are a great way to unwind, build relationships with colleagues, and have some fun outside the usual office environment. However, it’s important to remember that these events are still work-related, and certain behaviors can have lasting consequences. These are the 21 things you should never do at a work party.
Drink Too Much
According to the BBC, “Many companies now see alcohol-fuelled work parties as ‘too much of a risk.’” It’s easy to get carried away when the drinks are flowing freely, but drinking too much at a work party can lead to embarrassing situations or even put your job at risk. Know your limits and stick to them.
Gossip About Colleagues
Gossip might seem harmless, but it can create a toxic work environment and damage professional relationships. Avoid discussing sensitive or personal topics about colleagues, even if it seems like everyone is in on the joke. It’s better to keep conversations light and positive.
Talk About Salary or Promotions
Discussing salary or promotions can lead to resentment and awkwardness among colleagues; a work party is definitely not the place to air grievances about pay or boast about your latest raise. Keep the focus on enjoying the event rather than work-related issues.
Flirt Inappropriately
While it’s natural to be friendly, inappropriate flirting at a work party can lead to uncomfortable situations or even claims of harassment—it’s still a workplace setting, after all. Maintain professionalism and respect personal boundaries to avoid any misunderstandings that could arise.
Criticize Your Boss
Complaining about your boss might feel cathartic, but it can backfire quickly. Word travels fast, and you never know who might be listening—including your boss standing behind you at the buffet table. Keep any criticisms for private conversations with trusted friends outside of work.
Dress Inappropriately
Even though it’s a party, it’s still a work event, and dressing too casually or provocatively can send the wrong message to the people you work with every day, including your boss. Aim for a balance between professional and festive attire that reflects the occasion and your company culture.
Overshare Personal Details
It’s tempting to open up when you’re in a relaxed setting like a party, but oversharing personal details can make colleagues uncomfortable and harm your professional image. Keep conversations appropriate for a work environment and avoid divulging too much about your personal life.
Ignore Social Cues
Pay attention to social cues from others at the party, too; if someone seems uninterested or uncomfortable with the conversation, it’s best to gracefully change the subject or excuse yourself. Being socially aware shows respect and professionalism, which is still important even though it’s a celebration.
Isolate Yourself
While it might feel safe to stick with people you know well, isolating yourself at a work party can prevent you from building new connections during a more informally-toned event. Make an effort to mingle and engage with different colleagues to expand your professional network.
Arrive Too Late or Leave Too Early
Showing up significantly late or ducking out early can come across as disinterested or rude—the same rules apply to a work party as they do to any other party. Make an effort to arrive on time and stay for a reasonable duration to demonstrate your commitment to the event.
Engage in Heated Debates
Work parties are meant to be enjoyable, so steer clear of heated debates or controversial topics, which include politics, religion, and other sensitive subjects. These can quickly lead to arguments and spoil the mood (which will be remembered on Monday morning at your desk). Stick to neutral, positive conversations.
Hog the Spotlight
While sharing your achievements is fine, dominating conversations and bragging isn’t; it can alienate colleagues. Be mindful of giving others the chance to speak and share the limelight. Listening as much as you talk will make you a more enjoyable companion.
Complain About Work
Constantly complaining about work issues can bring down the atmosphere of the party. Focus on the positive aspects of your job or discuss neutral topics to keep the mood upbeat and enjoyable for everyone. Even though it’s a work party, nobody really wants to talk about work.
Engage in PDA
Public displays of affection with a partner at a work party can make others uncomfortable and appear unprofessional. Worse: if you have a work crush, it’s not the time to go for that first kiss. Keep romantic gestures subtle and respectful to maintain the decorum of the event.
Use Inappropriate Language
Even if the atmosphere is relaxed, using offensive or inappropriate language is never a good idea at a work party. Maintain a level of professionalism in your speech to avoid offending colleagues and damaging your reputation, in the same way you would hold back saying anything inappropriate on a normal working day.
Neglect to Thank the Hosts
If your company or a specific colleague went out of their way to organize the party, make sure to thank them. Acknowledging their effort shows appreciation and good manners, reinforcing positive workplace relationships—and they’ll remember that you did, which could benefit you once back to your normal work schedule.
Overindulge in Food
While it’s fine to enjoy the food, overindulging can come across as greedy or unprofessional. Be mindful of portion sizes and make sure there is enough for everyone to enjoy. Moderation is key—just because it’s free work party food doesn’t mean it’s a free-for-all.
Make Negative Remarks About the Event
Criticizing the event itself, such as the venue, food, or entertainment, can come off as ungrateful and rude. Even if things aren’t perfect, focus on the positive aspects and show appreciation for the effort put into organizing the party. You never know who might be listening if you’re criticizing the decorations.
Forget Your Manners
Basic manners go a long way in making a good impression, and that includes during a work party; remember to say “please” and “thank you,” avoid interrupting others, and be courteous to everyone. That also includes the servers and staff, and any people there you don’t usually work with. Good manners reflect well on you and your company, after all.
Be Overly Competitive
Participating in games or activities at a work party is great, but being overly competitive can ruin the fun for others, so you’ll want to keep a friendly and sportsmanlike attitude. Don’t forget that the main goal is to enjoy the event, not to win at all costs.
Engage in Office Politics
And finally, a work party is not the place to engage in office politics or try to gain favor with higher-ups through manipulation. Keep interactions genuine and professional, focusing on building authentic relationships rather than advancing personal agendas.
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