The panic caused by a potential Ebola outburst in Canada and, more recently, by the Jian Ghomeshi’s case, raised many questions related to health and safety in the workplace. There is a lot to be said. Simultaneously, office parties are the undeniable reminder that the holiday season is upon us.
How do I behave? How do I dress? What if I catch the flu? Or…Should I even attend?
These questions are asked more than in previous years. Clearly, there is a lot happening and employees and managers alike are on guard.
The Basic Rules
Although questions were always raised around attendance at holiday parties, the recent news makes them stand out a lot more.
There are fundamentals you need to adhere to in order to prevent any blunders.
- Do attend. Especially if you are part of a small team. Your boss will notice your team spirit.
- Do dress to impress. After all it’s a festive event! Chances are you will be dressed differently than a regular work day.
- It’s ok to be the first person to arrive. Just don’t be the last people to leave.
- Don’t get drunk. You want to make sure you will have no regrets regarding your boss or coworkers once you return on a regular office day.
- It’s not appropriate to clear the air with your boss just because it’s a party and you think your boss might react differently than at the office.
- Be sociable. A holiday party is an opportunity to get to know employees from outside your department.
- Don’t hook-up. Always keep in mind that you are attending an office function. Make sure you don’t get carried away.
This year especially, employees attending a holiday function will be on guard and most likely on their best behaviour. Take part in the festivity of your office and have fun following the rules.
Tell us in the comments below what’s being organized at your office this year.
