If your workplace Christmas party is one of the late ones this year or you’re gearing up for any other work functions, this one is for you. We all want to have a good time at these events (not to mention enjoy the usually complimentary food and wine) but getting too carried away could lead to a slip up that erases an entire year of hard work.
By Chloe Schneider
A recent hotels.com survey showed that one in five Aussies don’t make it home after their office Christmas party and are forced to do the walk of shame in the early hours of the morning. And it’s not just the 20-somethings who are partying hard either, in fact research showed that 35 to 44 year olds are the worst offenders! One in six surveyed said they’ve spotted a colleague turning up for work the next day wearing the same outfit they were the day before. Over a million Aussies owned up to kissing a colleague at the office part and a few even confessed their love to the boss. Cringing yet? Us too.
Australasian College Broadway’s Founder and Co-Chair, Maureen Houssein-Mustafa OAM, says, “Too often we’ve heard Christmas party tales that make your toes curl. Senior executives mixing with junior employees, combined with a constant flow of alcohol, is a potential recipe for humiliation and embarrassment on both sides.”
We all know drinking on an empty stomach is a recipe for disaster. Maureen recommends you make sure you are well fed before you start drinking. She also suggests you only drink the amount of someone who is driving to keep your head on and keep personal dramas out of conversation. And remember the old adage – nothing good happens after 2am!
Melinda O’Rourke from MO Luxury said, “Christmas is the season to merry not messy so here are a few tips to enjoy the Christmas work function and ensure there are no regrets!
1. Table talk needs to be kept above board (decorum) – that doesn’t mean you cannot have fun conversations and lots of laughs yet one must remember you’re still at work. A few drinks means that loose lips can sink ships… worth noting!
2. Move out of your pods – remember to mix with people you don’t usually work or talk with every day
3. Dress appropriately, sure wear your beautiful new dress and sky-high heels but remember you are not going to pole dancing classes. Chic and elegant is the only way to go.
4. Senior executives should lead the mood of the event. To ensure they set the scene, they shouldn’t cluster in their comfort zone of talking with their management teams, they need to ensure they circulate and spend time with all members of the team.
Christmas is a time to meet new friends and learn something more about the people you work with – you might be surprised what you have in common if you take the time.”
Whether it’s a Christmas party or another work function, follow these tips to impress the boss, enjoy your night, and wake up without regrets!
